Tbm Avenger Reunion & Air Show

TBM Avenger Reunion & Salute to Veterans

Held each May at Illinois Valley Regional Airport (Walter A. Duncan Field) in Peru, Illinois, the TBM Avenger Reunion & Salute to Veterans is a two-day warbird airshow that has grown into one of the most respected aviation events in the country. At its heart is the Grumman TBM/TBF Avenger — a World War II torpedo bomber — with roughly ten examples expected each year, forming the largest gathering of the type found anywhere in the world.

What began in 2015 as a small owners’ get-together has become a must-see destination for aviation fans, families, and motorsports enthusiasts alike. Alongside the Avengers, the event draws a wide variety of historic military aircraft spanning World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, plus modern demonstration acts. The 2026 edition, the 11th Annual, is set for Friday, May 15 and Saturday, May 16, 2026. Admission is free, with donations supporting the event’s Salute to Veterans mission.

The show is best known for its signature “TBM Glow” — a nighttime engine run-up where the radial engines light up the dark, a moment now copied at airshows across the country. Recent years have added Friday-night aerobatic performances, fireworks, live music, and a beer garden. Saturday centers on the Salute to Veterans, which has included a veterans’ parade, a “Walk of Honor,” and a Missing Man Formation flyover honoring those who served. Aircraft rides in select warbirds and helicopters are typically offered, along with food vendors, aircraft displays, and souvenirs on-site.

Illinois Valley Regional Airport sits in the Illinois Valley region along Interstate 80, making the event an easy day trip for riders and families across northern and central Illinois. The event is well signed, with volunteers and local police directing traffic into parking areas. As with any airshow, the aircraft lineup and schedule can change due to weather or mechanical considerations, and all activities are weather permitting.

Event Highlights

• World’s largest gathering of TBM/TBF Avengers — around ten rare WWII aircraft on the ramp at once.
• A full two-day airshow with historic warbirds from WWII, Korea, and Vietnam, plus modern demonstration acts.
• The famous nighttime “TBM Glow” engine run-up.
• Friday-night extras in recent years: aerobatic night show, fireworks, live music, and a beer garden.
• Salute to Veterans parade, “Walk of Honor,” and Missing Man Formation flyover.
• Aircraft and helicopter rides (some require advance purchase), plus food vendors and souvenirs.

Visiting

The event runs over two days in May at Illinois Valley Regional Airport (KVYS) in Peru, Illinois. Friday activities typically run into the evening, with the main daytime show and Salute to Veterans on Saturday. Specific hours change year to year, so check the official site before you go. Admission is free; bring cash for donations, food, souvenirs, and ride tickets.

For current dates, schedules, and the confirmed aircraft lineup, visit tbmreunion.org.

Rules & Tips for Visitors

A common-sense guide to making the most of your visit.

1. No smoking is permitted on airport grounds due to fuel and oil around the aircraft.
2. Chairs are allowed only in designated grass areas — not on the ramp.
3. Follow all signs and the direction of security personnel, volunteers, and police.
4. Follow parking volunteers into designated areas and avoid aggressive driving.
5. Littering is prohibited; please carry out what you bring in.
6. All activities are weather permitting, and the aircraft lineup may change without notice.
7. Leave plenty of time to arrive and park so you don’t miss anything.

Find more venues here: https://www.illinipowersports.com/all-venues-listings/

Find more info about the TBM Avenger Reunion here: https://tbmreunion.org/