Government Cuts Force New Look at Chicago Air & Water Show

Before you head out to the Chicago Air & Water show this weekend, you’ll want to know two of the show’s perennial top attractions—the Blue Angels and the Golden Knights—have been grounded because of federal sequestration.

The show will go on, however.

Organizers have added six civilian acts and hope to entertain big crowds all weekend in a new fashion.

The show runs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday-Sunday (Aug. 16-19) on Lake Michigan’s lake front, from Fullerton Avenue to Oak Street Beach. The main viewing area is at North Avenue Beach. Admission is free.

More Information: Chicago Air & Water Show 2013: Who, What, When and Where

3 Things Closer to Home

1. Louis Joliet Mall Arts & Crafts Show: The show—hosted by Heartland Creative—begins at 10 a.m. on Friday (Aug. 16) at Louis Joliet Mall, 3340 Mall Loop Drive, Joliet.

2. The Great Church Giveaway: You can “shop” for free items at Minooka Bible Church on Saturday (Aug. 17). The church is located at 412 N. Wabena Ave., Minooka. Featured items: clothes, toys, housewares, kitchen appliances and recreation equipment. The annual garage sale opens at 8 a.m. Saturday.

3. Joliet Slammers Baseball: The Slammers face the Southern Illinois Miners at 6:05 p.m. Saturday (Aug. 17) at Silver Cross Field in Joliet. It’s “Gone to the Birds Night” and there will be a pint glass giveaway courtesy of Bud Lite.