Lincoln’s Wings & Wheels returns this weekend with warbirds and hot air balloons
Thousands are expected to gather this weekend at Lincoln Regional Airport for the city’s annual Wings & Wheels airport event, a family-friendly showcase of classic aircraft, custom cars and aviation education.
The event opens Friday evening with food trucks, live music and the popular “moon glow” hot air balloon display. Gates open at 5 p.m. On Saturday, festivities begin at 6:30 a.m. with a hot air balloon launch and continue through 2 p.m. with flyovers, vehicle displays and hands-on youth programming.
This isn’t just a Lincoln event anymore — it’s become a regional destination, according to Richard Pearl, event director and a member of the Lincoln City Council.
“We’ve got 250 cars and 60-plus aircraft, plus 60 vendors and 10 food trucks,” Pearl said. “We’re also having hot air balloons, which is cool, very unique.”
The aircraft lineup includes military planes like a Douglas A-26 Invader attack aircraft from World War II, ultralights and a Coast Guard C-27J Spartan. A flyover by T-38 Talon jets from Beale Air Force Base is scheduled during Saturday’s exhibition.
On the ground, visitors can browse the classic and exotic cars, explore vendor booths and grab a bite in Food Truck Alley.
A Youth Aviation Expo, supported by the local Experimental Aircraft Association chapter, will offer kids the chance to explore flight simulators and learn about EAA’s Young Eagles flight program.
“This is going to benefit the EAA Youth Aviation Flight Fund,” Pearl said. “We put lots of kids through this program to get their license, to send them to Oshkosh (Wisconsin).”
Admission, which can be purchased in advance, is $5 Friday and $10 Saturday for adults. Guests under 18 get in for free. General parking is $15.
An $82.79 prepaid VIP Experience includes Friday night dinner near the moon glow, first access to balloon ride reservations, a private lounge and VIP entry and parking. Tethered balloon flights will also be available.
Lincoln Regional Airport is located at 1480 Flightline Drive. Tickets and information are available at lincolnchamber.com.
