The Wings Over North Georgia Air Show is returning early to Rome next spring, and organizers say the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will be the featured performers when the event takes flight April 3-4, 2026, at Russell Regional Airport.

The Thunderbirds are the U.S. Air Force’s premier air demonstration squadron, based at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada. Formed in 1953, the team is known worldwide for high-speed aerobatic formation and solo demonstrations designed to showcase the precision and capabilities of Air Force aviators.

The upcoming show follows last October’s air show, which was held during the federal government shutdown. That event had been scheduled to feature the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and other military acts, but those appearances were cancelled as “non-essential” during the shutdown. JLC AirShow Management, based in Rome, moved forward with civilian performances—some already planned and others added at the last minute—and still delivered a full weekend of entertainment at the airport.

That October show also featured a first-ever Friday schedule in Rome, including a country music concert, twilight flights, a lighted drone show, and fireworks.

“We’re proud to have pulled that off without military acts and now we’ve got our sights set on a bigger, better event with the Thunderbirds,” said John Cowman, president of JLC AirShow Management.

Cowman said additional performers—both military and civilian—will be announced in the coming months. The 2026 air show is set for Friday and Saturday to avoid conflicts with Easter Sunday.

Organizers say tickets for the general public go on sale December 3 for the holiday gift-giving season. Tickets must be purchased online in advance, and no tickets will be sold on the day of the performances. For ticket options and show updates, visit the Wings Over North Georgia website or follow the air show’s Facebook page.