May 30–31, 2026
Warbird Weekend: 250 is a two-day event that combines aviation history, living history demonstrations, classic cars, and 1940s-style entertainment. It takes place May 30–31 at Drake Field and is hosted by the Arkansas Air & Military Museum.
Why America’s 250th Anniversary Matters
The upcoming anniversary marks 250 years since the signing of the United States Declaration of Independence in 1776. That document declared that the American colonies would govern themselves and laid the foundation for the country that followed.
Over the next two and a half centuries, the United States experienced enormous change. The nation expanded westward, fought wars, developed new technologies, and became a global leader in science, industry, and aviation.
Events like Warbird Weekend highlight one important part of that story: the role aviation played during World War II and how American innovation helped shape the modern world.
What to Expect at Warbird Weekend in Fayetteville, Arkansas
Warbird Weekend officially begins Saturday morning, May 30. Gates open at 9 a.m., and the museum grounds quickly fill with activity.
Visitors will find living history displays, vendors, food trucks, and museum exhibits throughout the day. Volunteers help recreate the atmosphere of the 1940s, giving guests a sense of what aviation and military life were like during that time.
Guests will also have opportunities to meet pilots, learn about aircraft restoration, and see rare planes that still fly today.
Historic Aircraft Visiting Warbird Weekend
One of the main reasons people travel to Warbird Weekend is the opportunity to see historic aircraft up close. These planes represent a key era in American aviation and military history.
Two aircraft in particular are expected to draw attention this year.
The C-47 “That’s All Brother” – The Plane That Led the D-Day Invasion
One of the most notable aircraft scheduled to appear at Warbird Weekend is “That’s All Brother,” a historic C-47 Skytrain.
This aircraft led the formation of transport planes during the airborne portion of the D-Day invasion in June 1944. Thousands of paratroopers were dropped behind enemy lines that night in one of the most important operations of the war.
Today, the aircraft travels around the country so people can see and learn about its history.
Visitors will have the chance to step inside the plane, talk with the crew, and learn how it was restored and kept flying.
Ride flights may also be available for visitors interested in experiencing flight aboard a historic bomber.
The B-25 “Yellow Rose” Bomber Visiting Northwest Arkansas
Another aircraft visiting the event is the “Yellow Rose,” a restored B-25 Mitchell bomber.
The B-25 became famous after the Doolittle Raid early in World War II. During that mission, American bombers launched from an aircraft carrier and carried out a surprise raid over Tokyo.
Visitors can explore the aircraft, learn about its design, and speak with the crew that maintains it.
Ride flights may also be available for visitors interested in experiencing flight aboard a historic bomber.
Classic Car Show at Warbird Weekend
Saturday’s schedule also includes a classic car show featuring vintage vehicles from several decades.
Many of the cars on display come from the same era as the aircraft featured during the event. Their designs reflect the engineering and style of mid-20th-century America.
For visitors, the car show adds another dimension to the weekend and offers plenty of opportunities for photos and conversation with owners and collectors.
Car show participation is organized separately from museum admission.
Saturday Night Events: 1940s Pin-Up Contest and Stagedoor Canteen Dance
Activities continue Saturday evening with themed events inspired by the 1940s.
The Miss Drake Field pin-up contest celebrates vintage fashion and culture from the World War II era. Contestants wear period-inspired outfits that reflect the style of the time.
After the contest, the Stagedoor Canteen dance brings music and swing dancing to the museum. These dances are modeled after social events organized for service members during the war.
The evening events recreate a small part of the atmosphere that people on the home front experienced during the 1940s.
Separate admission is required for these activities.
What’s Happening on Sunday at Warbird Weekend
The event continues Sunday, May 31, with aircraft displays, vendors, food trucks, and living history demonstrations.
Many of the same activities from Saturday will still be available, giving visitors another opportunity to explore the museum grounds and see the aircraft.
Benefits for Arkansas Air & Military Museum Members
Members of the Arkansas Air & Military Museum receive several benefits during Warbird Weekend.
Members receive free admission and early access to the aircraft. On May 29, members can view the visiting aircraft before the public event begins. Members also receive early entry on both event days.
These benefits help support the museum’s mission to preserve aviation history and maintain historic aircraft.
Why Warbird Weekend Is One of the Most Unique Events in Northwest Arkansas
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, events like Warbird Weekend help visitors connect with history in a way that books and photos cannot fully capture.
For locals and visitors alike, Warbird Weekend offers a chance to spend time with aviation history while celebrating an important milestone in the nation’s story.
