Wisconsin, June 23, 2026 — EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 attendees can enjoy a full week of evening programming at Theater in the Woods, featuring an impressive lineup of guests ranging from NASA astronauts to cast and crew members from the 1990 film Memphis Belle. From July 19–25, the popular outdoor venue will host nightly presentations celebrating aviation history, space exploration, military heritage, and inspiring personal stories. “After a full day on the Oshkosh flight line, evenings at Theater in the Woods have been the perfect place to sit back and hear from aviation’s greats,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “This year’s programming again creates ‘only at Oshkosh’ moments with those involved in aviation history, cutting-edge technology, or the silver screen.”
Schedule of Events |
Sunday, July 19An Evening with Champions: The History of the USAF Heritage Flight 7–9 p.m. The week begins with a look at the origins and evolution of the USAF Heritage Flight program, featuring pilots and organizers who helped create and sustain one of aviation’s most popular aerial demonstrations. |
Monday, July 20U.S. Air Force Salute to America’s 250th Birthday 7:30–9:15 p.m. The U.S. Air Force will lead a special program celebrating America’s 250th birthday. The evening begins with a swearing-in ceremony at 7:30 p.m., followed by a performance by country music star Tyler Hubbard at 8 p.m. |
Tuesday, July 21A Home in Space: From the Shuttle and Beyond 7–9 p.m. Marking the 45th anniversary of the Space Shuttle program, this panel discussion will feature NASA astronauts and personnel, including Hoot Gibson, Charlie Precourt, Eileen Collins, and Jeanie Engel. The discussion will be moderated by Jennifer Levasseur, curator of the Space Shuttle and International Space Station exhibits at the National Air and Space Museum. |
Wednesday, July 22Concept to Cockpit 6:30–7:45 p.m. Following WomenVenture activities earlier in the day, this panel will spotlight women who have made significant contributions to aircraft design and aviation innovation. Participants include Xyla Foxlin, Jessica Cox, Margaret Viola, and Kacy Anderson. |
Thursday, July 23Memphis Belle: Telling the Story on the Big Screen 7–9 p.m. Cast and crew members from the 1990 motion picture Memphis Belle will share behind-the-scenes stories and discuss the challenges of bringing the legendary B-17 bomber’s story to the silver screen. |
Friday, July 249/11: A Look Back 25 Years Later 7–9 p.m. This commemorative program will honor those who served during the events of September 11, 2001. Guests from the FDNY, NYPD, Air Force One, and NASA will reflect on their firsthand experiences. Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet members of the Royal Air Force Red Arrows display team. |
Saturday, July 25Mission Marge: The Discovery of the Ace of Aces’ Lightning 6:30–7:45 p.m. The week concludes with the story of an expedition to recover artifacts associated with America’s leading WWII ace, Maj. Richard Bong. Members of the Bong family, the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center, Pacific Wrecks, and the Wisconsin Air National Guard’s 128th Air Refueling Wing will discuss the mission and its discoveries. |
