Minden-Tahoe SkyFest Event Schedule

Friday, October 16

3 PM - Parking Opens
4 PM - Gates Open
6 PM - Show Starts
8 PM - Show Concludes
8 PM - Live Music with The Scarlet Verbs

Saturday, October 17

8 AM - Parking Opens
9 AM - Gates Open
- Car Show (Until 3 PM)
11 AM - National Anthem
11 AM - Show Starts
3 PM - Show Concludes

Sunday, October 18

8 AM - Parking Opens
9 AM - Gates Open
11 AM - National Anthem
11 AM - Show Starts
3 PM - Show Concludes

Friday Night Air & Drone Show
October 16 - Gates Open at 4 PM

For one night only, the Carson Valley sky comes alive after dark as Minden-Tahoe SkyFest launches its inaugural weekend with a spectacular night air and drone show.

The evening begins with the precision flying of the Patriots Jet Team before the skies ignite with breathtaking aerial pyrotechnics from two of North America's most celebrated night-show performers. Nathan Hammond's GhostWriter Airshows takes flight in his illuminated Super Chipmunk, featuring thousands of LED lights and more than 200 pounds of pyrotechnics woven into a dazzling aerobatic performance.

Joining him is Bob Carlton of Vertigo Airshows, whose one-of-a-kind jet-powered sailplane combines graceful aerobatics with sparks, smoke and dramatic aerial effects. Carlton's nationally acclaimed night performances have earned him a reputation as one of the most innovative airshow entertainers in the industry.

The night concludes with a breathtaking 200-drone light show that transforms the sky into a canvas of color and motion above the Minden-Tahoe Airport.

The best seat in the house is at the airport itself, where lights, fire and flight combine for an unforgettable evening unlike anything Northern Nevada has seen before. Bring the family, settle in under the stars and experience the magic as the Carson Valley sky becomes a glowing stage.

After the final drone takes its bow, keep the celebration going with live music from The Scarlet Verbs.

Line up of Static Displays On-site During the Event

Get up close and personal with aviation at SkyFest's extensive static display area. From historic World War II aircraft and modern helicopters to soaring gliders, classic cars, and specialized rescue vehicles, there's something for aviation enthusiasts of all ages. Guests can explore these remarkable exhibits, meet pilots and crews, learn about aviation organizations and career pathways, and experience the history, technology, and excitement of flight firsthand.

Displays will be staffed by pilots, crews, and volunteers who are eager to share their stories and answer questions.

  • Pathways to Aviation - Vision Jet or Plum 51

  • Minden Soaring Club - Duo Discus - Glider

  • Minden Youth Soaring - Blanik - Glider

  • SoaringNV - SGS 2-32 - Glider

  • Battle Born Medevac - Helicopter

  • Tuskegee Airmen - Red Tail Mustang

  • 1948 Piper PA-11 Cub

  • 1941 Piper Cub

  • Valkyrie's Air - 2025 Diamond DA50 RG

  • 1942 Navy N3N

  • Civil Air Patrol – CAP Plane & Flight simulator

  • Cardinal

  • Howard DGA-15

  • Douglas Dukes Classic Cars – Up to 20 classic cars on display

  • North American Harvard MK II, designation AT-6-C, built during WW-II for the RCAF

  • Swift

  • Skydance Helicopters - UH-60 Black Hawk

  • Commemorative Airforce - L19 Bird Dog and T-6 Texan

  • Nevada Division of Forestry - Bell 205A1

  • Rutledge Airborne Applications - Beech 18 and T-6G Texan

  • Perlan Project

  • Top Gun Motorcycle - Exact replica of Tom Cruise's 1984 Kawasaki GPz

  • MOG Off-Road – Large Rescue Vehicle

Photography, Videography and Media Coverage:
Photographers, videographers, media representatives, and content creators may be present throughout Minden-Tahoe SkyFest to capture event activities and attendee experiences. Images and video recorded during the event may be used by Minden-Tahoe SkyFest and its partners for marketing, promotional, educational, and archival purposes across print, digital, broadcast, website, and social media platforms. By entering the event grounds, you acknowledge that your image, likeness, and/or voice may be captured and used without compensation. Questions may be directed to mindentahoeairport@douglasnv.us.