After a summer dominated by wildfire smoke and evacuation orders, Jefferson County has something to look forward to: the Bright Wood Airshow of the Cascades returns to Madras on August 28 and 29, 2026, bringing two days of flight demonstrations, vintage aircraft, a car show, live music, vendors, and community celebration to the Madras Municipal Airport.
What to Expect
The Airshow of the Cascades is Oregon’s largest annual air show and one of the premier aviation events in the Pacific Northwest. The 2026 edition will feature:
- Aerobatic performances from regional and national pilots
- Vintage and warbird aircraft on static display and in the air
- Glider and sailplane demonstrations
- Helicopter rides for the public
- Legacy Flight formation demonstrations
- A classic car show, live music, food vendors, and family activities throughout both days
Supporting Youth Programs
The Madras VFW is running a raffle drawing tied to the airshow weekend, with proceeds benefiting local youth programs and scholarships. Tickets are available at the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce office and through any VFW member. The drawing will be held during the airshow, so ticket buyers should plan to attend for the chance to win.
Getting There and Tickets
The airshow is held at the Madras Municipal Airport, located just east of downtown Madras off Airport Road. Gates open both days for full-day access. Early ticket purchases typically offer savings over day-of prices; the Airshow of the Cascades website at cascadeairshow.com and the event’s Facebook page (@cascadeairshow) have current ticket and schedule information as the event approaches.
A Welcome Distraction — and a Boost for Local Business
The airshow draws visitors from across Central Oregon and beyond, providing a welcome economic boost for Madras restaurants, hotels, and retailers at what has been a difficult stretch for the community. Last year’s event drew thousands of attendees over its two-day run.
For a county that has spent much of August watching smoke columns rise over the horizon and tracking evacuation maps, the roar of aircraft overhead at Madras Municipal Airport on August 28 will carry a little extra meaning this year.
The Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce encourages local businesses interested in vendor or sponsorship opportunities to contact the airshow organizers directly through the show’s website.