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In the spirit of military service, Arctic Thunder Open House is an event hosted by Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson to give back to the local community.  We open our doors every other year and share our unique life and culture with a community who contributes so much to our ability to engage globally and protect locally.

In years previous, this prodigious event has seen attendance in upwards of 300,000 people.  We will have over 40 static displays spanning 30 acres containing inventory from around the Department of Defense and the Department of Homeland Security.  Additionally, we are anticipating having over 7 different international partners participating in some capacity.  With a planned 7 hours of flying activities, one can look forward to 6 military aerial demonstrations, 8 civilian aerial demonstrations and Joint Force demonstrations.

***ATOH 2022 is subject to change and/or cancellation. Please check back often for updates.***

All media representatives interested in covering the 2022 ATOH should contact JBER & 673d ABW Public Affairs at (907) 552-8160/8995 or via email jber.pa.mediaops@us.af.mil with the subject heading " Media at 2022 ATOH."

All media requesting credentialing must read the ATOH Media Ground Rules and complete/email the ATOH Media Visit Request to the above address.

 

The following hand-carried items are permitted:

·Personal carts or wheelchairs for physically 
  challenged visitors
· Diaper bags for guests with small children
· Small purses
· Strollers for small children
· Official service dogs (credentials may be requested)
· Photo or video cameras; must be small enough
  to carry by hand
· Binoculars
· Folding chairs and lawn chairs

The following items are recommended:

· Water bottles
· Sunscreen
· Hearing protection
· Sunglasses
· Sunhats/baseball caps

The following items are prohibited:

· UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) or UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) of any size or type
· Coolers
· Alcohol
· Backpacks
· Duffle bags
· Large purses
· Camelbacks
· Paint
· Balloons
· Large camera bags
· Illegal drugs including marijuana
· Weapons (brass knuckles, mace, pepper spray, 
  box cutters, firearms, knives)
· Military uniforms worn by non-military members
· Gang affiliated colors or clothing
· Bicycles (inside the open house viewing area)  

*Motorcycles & bicycles ridden on base outside of viewing areas must wear a helmet
· Scooters
· Skates
· Skateboards

· Go-carts
· Wagons
· Umbrellas

All pets are prohibited from the Arctic Thunder grounds. Service animals assisting physically challenged guests will be authorized. At no time will pets be left unattended outside the area or in vehicles.

"Arctic Thunder - Eyes Above The Horizon"

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson is excited to announce the return of Arctic Thunder Open House, scheduled for July 30 and 31, 2022. This much-anticipated event is free to the public and showcases two full days of world-class aerial acrobatics and military demonstrations featuring the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron Thunderbirds. Join us as we give the local community an unforgettable, up-close and personal experience with our aircraft, equipment and the outstanding men and women who wear the uniform. Our team is thrilled to bring this incredible event back to JBER as our way of saying thank you – to our friends and neighbors from across the great state of Alaska – for the incredible support you all provide to our military members and their families. Follow us on Facebook to stay connected with the most up-to-date information regarding this exciting event.

 

Note: All Subject to Change, check back often for the most up-to-date information. 

Who will be performing?

  • U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds
  • ACC F-22 Demonstration
  • USAF Pacific Air Forces F-16 Demonstration Team
  • The PACAF C-17 Demonstration team
  • Anthony Oshinuga
  • Melissa Dawn Burns 
  • Tom "Lark" Larkin
  • U.S. Army SOC Parachute Demo Team "The Black Daggers"
  • Undaunted Airshows 
  • The U.S. Air Force Band of the Pacific 

  • 9th Army Band 

When is Arctic Thunder Open House?
Arctic Thunder is scheduled for July 30 and 31, 2022.
Do I need a military ID to attend the event?

No, this event is free and open to the public.
Will all gates will be open during Arctic Thunder?
For those arriving from North of Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (Eagle River or the Valley), please enter through the Fort Richardson Gate via D Street Exit.  For those arriving from Anchorage or South of Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, please enter through the Boniface Gate via Boniface Parkway.

You will be directed to FREE general parking after entry.

From 9:00 a.m. to noon, the Boniface Gate will have three lanes inbound and one lane outbound.

After 2 p.m., no open house traffic will be allowed through Boniface Gate or Richardson Gate.


Will there be handicap access and parking available on base?
Yes. We are finalizing the parking plan and will post updated information as it becomes available.
What type of medical services will be available?
First aid will be provided to address dehydration, treatment for minor cuts and bruises, and the application of emergency medications (ex. Epi-pens). Medical personnel will stabilize patients and coordinate transportation to a higher level of care for all other injuries/illnesses.
Will restroom facilities be easily accessible?
Yes, portable restrooms will be located all over the flight line.
Will it be necessary to have hearing protection?
Due to the nature of the event, it is highly encouraged you bring hearing protection – especially for children. There will be a number of aircraft taking off, landing and performing, which will be extremely loud.
Is tailgating allowed?
No, tailgating is not allowed.
What happens if it rains?
In the event of rain, some flying demonstrations may be delayed; however, unless the weather poses a serious threat to the safety of the visitors and participants, the show will proceed as scheduled with some modifications.

 

   Who is scheduled to perform?
At this time, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds are confirmed as the headliners for both days. There will be a variety of other civilian and military aerial demonstrations.
Which day will the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds be performing?
The Thunderbirds will perform demonstrations Saturday and Sunday, weather permitting.
Can I bring my camera, video camera, or cell phone?

There will be several aerial performances, so a small camera and/or video camera wouldn't be a bad idea. While there are no restrictions on taking photos or videotaping the show, large camera bags are not permitted. Leave unnecessary camera accessories at home or put them in a small bag.
Can I take photographs or get autographs?
Yes, many of the performers make themselves available for photographs and autographs during the air show.
I have small children. Can I bring a stroller, diaper bag, or change of clothes?
For those with babies and young children, strollers, small diaper bags with snacks and baby bottles, and over-the-ear protection are encouraged. Keep in mind all strollers and bags will be searched before entering the flight line gates.
How will I know if the open house has been cancelled or delayed?
In the event of an open house cancellation, announcements will be coordinated with local news agencies, pushed through the JBER Facebook Page as well as the JBER Connect app.


 

Possession and use of recreational and medicinal marijuana is illegal on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson or any federal installation. 

Admission is FREE. Tickets are not available or required for general entry. General parking is also FREE.

Transportation: Personal vehicles are allowed entry through general public access gates.  Motor homes and RVs are not permitted.

Sponsorship Opportunities: If you are interested in becoming a sponsor of Arctic Thunder, click here for detailed information.

Non-profit Organizations: If you are interested in participating in the Arctic Thunder Open House can contact staff at 907-552-9249 or via email at 673fss.marketing@us.af.mil.

No Federal Endorsement Intended. This is a solicitation for commercial sponsorship by a non-appropriated fund instrumentality of the United States Government. It does not obligate appropriated funds or non-appropriated funds.

Arctic Thunder General Public Entry

  • Gate # 1 - Boniface Parkway
  • Gate # 2 - Fort Richardson via D Street Exit

For those arriving from North of Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (Eagle River or the Valley), please enter through the Fort Richardson Gate via D Street Exit.  For those arriving from Anchorage or South of Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, please enter through the Boniface Gate via Boniface Parkway.

You will be directed to FREE general parking after entry.

From 9:00 a.m. to noon, the Boniface Gate will have three lanes inbound and one lane outbound.

After 2 p.m., no open house traffic will be allowed through Boniface Gate or Richardson Gate.

*Individuals with children are requested to pick up arm bands at Entry Control Points or in Hangar 2.

*Handicap parking is available for vehicles with the proper identification and markings.

For questions or more information please contact Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson and 673d Air Base Wing Public Affairs (907) 552-8151, Option 3, or via email at jber.arcticthunder@gmail.com with the subject heading "2022 ATOH."