For many, the Abbotsford International Airshow is synonymous with hot and dry conditions. After all, the Airshow takes place in the peak of summer each year in early August. More than a few people have left the event with a bit more colour than they were hoping for, having missed an re-application or two of sunscreen.

But did you know that the Airshow offers an alternative for those aviation fans who want to watch Canada’s National Airshow and stay cool at the same time? Welcome to the Abbotsford International Airshow’s Friday Twilight Show!

Friday’s Airshow takes off in the late afternoon on Friday, August 5 as the midday heat starts to subside. Up in the sky, the remaining daylight hours are filled with dazzling aerobatic displays from world-class performers, military demonstrations, and Canada’s iconic aerial ambassadors – the Canadian Forces Snowbirds!

The Airshow’s full event grounds and attractions are also open, inviting spectators to wander more than 300,000 square feet of Static Aircraft displays, browse souvenir vendors, visit the interactive Aviation S.T.E.M. Zone, and let their kids enjoy the McDonald’s KidsZone adventure playground. When hunger strikes, more than 30 food trucks offering everything from festival classics like burgers and mini-donuts to exotic cuisines from arounds the world!

But as the sun sets and the temperature drops, that’s when things really heat up! The Royal Canadian Air Force’s CF-18 Hornet signals the start of the golden hour with a heart-pounding twilight performance – its afterburner fire readily visible in the falling light. And look closely as it lands to see the sparks fly from its tailhook on the runway.

The evening’s spectacles are not limited to the sky. On the ground, Hot Air Balloons around the event grounds awaken, internally lit by fire as they inflate like giant lanterns.

The aerial theatrics continue as pilot Nathan Hammond and “Ghostwriter” Airshows arrives from out of nowhere with an explosive aerobatic routine featuring pyrotechics and fireworks spraying from his wingtips. As his routine finishes, Ghostwriter disappears into the darkness as suddenly as he appeared.

For the first time ever, the 2022 Twilight Show will also feature a Drone Light Show. 100 radio-controlled drones will rise into the air, creating animations and shapes, celebrating the 60-year history of the Abbotsford Airshow.

Last but not least, the Twilight Show finishes with dazzling Fireworks. Not to be confused with your local fireworks, the Airshow’s fireworks display is one of the Lower Mainland’s best each year!

If you haven’t given the Abbotsford Airshow’s Twilight Show a try, don’t wait any longer. Pack your hoodie and skip the sunburn for a unique air show experience unlike any other. Twilight Show gates open at 3 p.m. and the performances run from approximately 5:00p.m. to 10:00p.m.

For all the sun-worshipers out there, have no fear. The Airshow returns on Saturday & Sunday, August 6 & 7 with its full daytime program including both the Snowbirds and US Air Force Thunderbirds!