Wings and Wheels ready for 20th anniversary launch
by Jeff Pederson of The Review staff
Over the past two decades, thousands of area families have flocked to the Sheboygan County Memorial Airport on Father's Day for Wings and Wheels.
This year is no exception, as the EAA Chapter 766 is prepared to stage the 20th annual Wings and Wheels event Sunday, June 20.
Between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m., the airport grounds will be filled with a wide range of aviation and automobile-related events, activities and displays
The popular family-friendly event will feature airplane and helicopter rides, antique cars and tractors, model airplanes, model train displays and a food court.
New this year is an M-4 flight simulator, which will provide an up-close view of the inside of an airplane cockpit.
“The aviation simulator is something different for this year,” said Dan Miller, EAA Chapter 776 member and Aviation Heritage Center board of directors president. “I think people are really going to like getting a taste of what it is really like to fly an airplane.”
Aviation aficionados are sure to be intrigued by a diverse collection of antique and warbird airplanes.
“We always have a very nice fleet of airplanes fly in for the event,” Miller said. “You never really know what kind of planes will turn up, which makes it interesting. No matter what, we always have a nice turnout.”
Kids’ activities include Rockets for School and robotics interactive displays.
“We like to say that we have something for everyone,” Miller said. “Our goal is have things that appeal to all members of the family.”
For those who prefer ground-bound machines, the Wings and Wheels Car Show typically includes antique, show and high-performance cars.
“The car show usually features a really eclectic mix of vehicles,” Miller said. “We welcome any kind of vehicle you could imagine. If it’s transportation related, it is welcome at our show.”
The event typically draws between 8,000 and 10,000 people to the airport grounds.
“This is the single biggest event at the airport each year,” Miller said. “It is such a nice thing to do as a family on Father's Day.”
A Father's Day pancake breakfast will be held in conjunction with Wings and Wheels at the Aviation Heritage Center, between 7 a.m. and 11 a.m.
Admission and parking are free. “This has always been a free event,” Miller said. “We don't charge to get in or to park. Our goal is to offer an affordable family activity, with broad appeal.”
