Luke Days is a special event held at Luke Air Force base every other year (in the odd years). The two-day show is a unique combination of aerial demonstrations, military aircraft ground displays, exhibits, and attractions. In 2009, the theme for the event is "Thunder in the Desert."
When is the Luke Days event?
March 21 and 22, 2009 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Gates open at 9 a.m. and scheduled acts begin at 10:30 a.m.Where is the Luke Days event?
It can be a little complicated getting to the event, since this is a secure, operational Air Force Base. You will park in a lot that has a shuttle to and from the event. There will be a parking charge.How do I get tickets for Luke Days and how much are they?
There are no tickets. This is a free event for everyone and it's a unique family activity.What else should I know about Luke Days?
The 2009 Luke Days "Thunder in the Desert" open house will feature several exciting acts and dozens of static displays. The headlining act, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will be performing both Saturday and Sunday. The U.S. Air Force Academy's Wings of Blue parachute team will also perform.This year, you'll be able to visit the The Virtual Army Experience at Luke Days. It is a 20,000 square foot combat simulator that helps the public gain a better appreciation for the jobs Army soldiers do on a daily basis. At the combat simulator participants load up into life-sized Humvee and UH-60 Blackhawk simulators and take a virtual test drive of the U.S. Army, immersed into a combat mission. You can meet SGT Tommy Rieman, a member of the Real Heroes program. He received a Silver Star and Purple Heart and was recognized by President Bush during the 2007 State of the Union address for his role in Operation Iraqi Freedom. The photo gallery includes pictures of The Virtual Army Experience.
Although more than 100,000 people attend each day of Luke Days, there's plenty of room for everyone. Bring folding chairs or a blanket to sit on. For most of the shows, you'll be looking up, so there's little reason to try to get a position in front!
Children love Luke Days. When your kids start to get a little bored you can take them to visit a very nice, large children's play area. There are bungee rides and a rock wall for the ones that aren't so little anymore. Of course, there are also many military airplanes on the ground that they can walk right up to. In some cases, they can get inside.
Bring your binoculars, and bring the camera. Dress in layers--it can be cold in the morning even if it warms up later in the afternoon. With all that looking up at the sky, don't forget the sunscreen!
Do you have pictures of the Luke Days event?
Yes! Enjoy this Luke Days photo gallery.What if I have more questions about Luke Days?
For more information, visit Luke Days online .All dates, times, prices and offerings are subject to change without notice.
