Location: Las Cruces, New Mexico
Date: October 25, 2025
A Weekend Where the Past Met the Present
The roar of engines echoed across the desert as we arrived at the Las Cruces International Airport for the 2025 SkyFiesta — a weekend celebration of flight, heritage, and raw power. This year’s show paid tribute to the 80th anniversary of World War II, bringing together rare vintage aircraft, high-speed jet teams, and an unforgettable crowd that filled the New Mexico horizon with awe.
As someone who’s spent over two decades in the military vehicles and aircraft, I’ve seen my fair share of aircraft — but SkyFiesta was something special. It wasn’t just about airplanes; it was about legacy, community, and the unmistakable hum of engines that tell stories from generations past.
A Tribute in Motion
The organizers crafted the lineup as both a spectacle and a salute. The legendary B-25J “Yellow Rose” from the Commemorative Air Force soared through the sky, its twin engines echoing history with every pass. Below, the crowd stood silent for a moment — many of us aware that we were watching a living artifact in flight.
Nearby, the MiG-17 Demo Team took to the sky with spine-tingling precision, while the Lone Star Jet Team brought modern intensity to the day, slicing through the blue desert sky in tight formation. And when the Microjet Airshow took off — its tiny frame darting through loops, rolls, and inverted arcs — the crowd erupted in cheers.
It was a perfect blend of nostalgia and adrenaline, history and innovation — the kind of show that reminds you why aviation still stirs something deep inside us.
Finding Our Place on the Flight Line
We first learned about SkyFiesta about a month before the event. The name alone caught my attention — SkyFiesta, a celebration of the sky. Without hesitation, we grabbed Borman Elevated Experience tickets to make sure we had a prime view. Looking back, it was worth every cent. The shaded seating, first-class vantage point, and open space gave our youngest room to roam — something every parent appreciates at large events.
As the engines fired up, I found myself balancing between photographing the action and simply taking it in. The air smelled of jet fuel, grilled street tacos, and desert dust — the kind of mix that defines an airshow.
Between acts, we wandered the grounds: static displays of vintage jeeps, WWII memorabilia, and the smiling faces of veterans sharing stories with anyone who stopped to listen. It wasn’t just a show, it was living history.
In the Air and On the Ground
Brad Wursten of Power Addiction Airshows took the stage — or rather, the sky — performing gravity-defying aerobatics in his custom MXS-R. The roar of his engine blended with the sound of camera shutters clicking in unison.
Then came Torrey Ward’s Microjet, a tiny machine capable of 300 mph speeds and G-forces that would make any stomach churn. Every loop and roll seemed impossible, yet precise — a true showcase of human skill and mechanical engineering.
On the ground, families gathered around vendors, kids wore oversized ear protection, and photographers lined up shoulder to shoulder, lenses pointed skyward. When the Lone Star Jet Team screamed overhead, the ground literally vibrated beneath our feet.
The Moment Everyone Waited For
As the sun began to dip below the Organ Mountains, the energy shifted. The crowd turned their eyes toward the sky as the MiG-17F Fighters, led by Randy W. Ball, took off with thunderous power.
The pyrotechnics team stood ready. What followed was pure cinematic spectacle — simulated bombing runs, strafing passes, and finally, a wall of fire that stretched 1,000 feet across the flight line. The heat hit our faces seconds after the explosion. For a moment, everyone stood frozen in awe — then the crowd erupted in applause.
This was more than a performance. It was storytelling through flight — a visceral, living reminder of the past and the thrill of aviation’s future.
Reflections from the Field
On our way home, the desert night fell quiet again. The adrenaline faded, replaced with reflection — the kind that only comes after being part of something bigger than yourself.
Events like SkyFiesta remind me why I do what I do. The people, the passion, the sound of engines and laughter — it’s all part of the same story.
If you ever find yourself near Las Cruces, New Mexico at the end of October, make your way to SkyFiesta. Bring your camera, bring your family, and bring your sense of wonder. You’ll leave with memories that stay long after the smoke clears.
Frequently Asked Questions – SkyFiesta 2025
1. Where does SkyFiesta take place?
SkyFiesta is held at Las Cruces International Airport in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The event takes advantage of the wide-open desert landscape, offering breathtaking backdrops for both aviation photography and family fun.
2. What’s the best way to get tickets?
Tickets are available directly through the official SkyFiesta website. You can typically choose between General Admission, Premium Parking, and Borman Elevated Experience options. We recommend purchasing early, as premium seating tends to sell out weeks before the show.
3. Is SkyFiesta pet-friendly?
While service animals are always welcome, pets are generally not permitted due to loud jet noise, pyrotechnics, and large crowds. The event prioritizes safety for both guests and animals. If you’re traveling with pets, consider leaving them in a comfortable, air-conditioned environment during the event.
4. What can I bring to the airshow?
Guests are encouraged to bring sunscreen, hats, folding chairs, and ear protection (especially for children). Outside food and beverages are typically not allowed, but there are plenty of local vendors on-site offering everything from tacos to cold lemonade.
5. Is the event family-friendly?
Absolutely! SkyFiesta welcomes aviation enthusiasts of all ages. From vintage displays to modern jet demonstrations, there’s something for everyone. Families can enjoy a full day of entertainment, food, and photography opportunities.
6. What time should I arrive?
Gates usually open around 11:00 AM, and the first performances begin at noon. Arriving early ensures better parking and gives you time to explore the static displays before the main aerial acts begin.
7. Are photographers welcome at SkyFiesta?
Definitely. SkyFiesta offers one of the most photo-friendly airshow experiences in the Southwest. With clear desert light, dramatic backdrops, and high-action moments, it’s a dream for aviation photographers. Just be mindful of restricted zones and always follow event staff directions.
8. Will there be food and drinks available?
Yes! The food vendors at SkyFiesta are a highlight in themselves — from local New Mexican flavors to festival favorites. Expect tacos, BBQ, lemonade, and a few sweet treats that perfectly complement the day’s excitement.
9. How accessible is the event
SkyFiesta provides ADA-accessible parking, restrooms, and viewing areas. If you or someone in your group has mobility challenges, it’s best to arrive early to secure accessible parking close to the flight line.
10. How can I get media coverage or collaborate with Lost Pathfinder Media
If you’re an event organizer or tourism board representative interested in photojournalistic coverage, visit our Work With Us page. Lost Pathfinder Media provides professional photography, written features, and digital storytelling tailored to travel, destinations, and events across the Southwest.
