Spectators duck to take a tour of “Doc” a restored B-29 Superfortress on display at the Rose City AirFest in 2022. (Les Hassell/Tyler Morning Telegraph File Photo)

As the annual Rose City AirFest takes off this weekend, local businesses are soaring to new heights with a range of flight-themed promotions and activities.

From special sales to aviation-inspired events, these community spots aim to engage residents and visitors alike, creating a vibrant atmosphere for an exciting “Weekend of Flight.”

“When Visit Tyler branded the Weekend of Flight in conjunction with Rose City Airfest, we had no idea how many of our local businesses would participate,” said Diann Bayes, President of Visit Tyler. “Much like our Totality Tyler event during the total eclipse in April, we have seen the creativity shine through.”

The fourth annual Rose City Airfest, benefiting CampV — a Tyler nonprofit that supports East Texas veterans with counseling, support groups, and help with federal benefits — will take place this Saturday at Tyler Pounds Regional Airport’s Historic Aviation Memorial Museum, 150 Airport Blvd. Attendees can look forward to an exciting display of planes performing tricks, flips, dips, and other thrilling aerial maneuvers.

“Based on flight themes because of the Airfest, which benefits Camp V and the important work they do for our veterans, businesses took all things flying to the next level,” Bayes said. “From beer and whiskey flights to wild bird walkabouts and hot wings, they stepped up to keep the flight conversation going. We love the collaborations of our local businesses and look forward to the creation of many more like these in the future.”

At the airshow, attendees will get to look at roughly 30 aircraft. Twenty-four food vendors will be on site as well. This year’s event will feature one of the rarest warbirds left in existence: a Messerschmitt 262, the first turbojet to see combat in World War II. Among the other highlights, the U.S. Air Force will bring an F-35 virtual reality flight simulator and the U.S. Navy will bring an underwater robotics drone.

Parking will open at 9 am., and gates open at 10 a.m. The air show begins at 3 p.m. Tickets for adults cost $35 if purchased before the show, and they cost $5 for children ages 12 to 5. Children ages 5 and under get in for free. To purchase tickets for the show and/or tickets to ride in a historic plane, visit https://tinyurl.com/rosecityairfest2024.

Local businesses are excited to participate in the AirFest celebration, offering special promotions and activities, including the following:

Rose City Art Gallery

The Rose City Art Gallery will be celebrating Airfest with a special exhibition featuring local artists inspired by aviation and flight. Visitors can enjoy a unique collection of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and mixed media pieces that pay homage to the spirit of flight and the community.

“The Palette Of Roses Art League is taking art to new heights as we soar with our exhibition called ‘Art in Flight’ at the new Rose City Art Gallery,” said Diane Reis, president of the Palette of Roses Art League. “We have created a special exhibit this weekend in honor of aviation as artists were challenged to create unique works inspired by flight.”

The exhibit is focused on aviation themes, including hot air balloons, planes, and birds. The gallery is located at 328 S. College Avenue in Tyler, and it can be reached by phone 903-521-1725 or you can visit its Facebook page bit.ly/rosecity_artgallery.

Kiepersol

Local winery Kiepersol has created a wine brand called ‘Flight’ to complement the AirFest.

“Kiepersol has been a supporter of the Rose City Airfest since its beginning,” said Kelly Doherty, WSET 3, director of Branding & Marketing. “It is the best combination of community, patriotism and fun. The Airfest aligns with several of our brands as well as our values as a company.”

Additionally, the winery will feature Jimmy’s Bourbon, inspired by local American hero Jimmy Hines, a World War II torpedo bomber pilot.

“The inscribed flight goggles on the bottle reflect the brand’s tagline, ‘Through Heroes’ Eyes,’ and pay tribute to Kiepersol’s dedication to our heroes and veterans,” Doherty noted.

Kiepersol will offer a flight of various Jimmy’s Bourbon tastings and a 15% discount on Flight wine, available by the glass or bottle for takeout.

The winery is located at 21556-B Merlot Lane in Tyler, and it can be reached by phone 903-894-8995 or you can visit its website www.kiepersol.com.

True Vine Brewing

True Vine Brewing invites patrons to experience their “Classic Flight,” an interactive tasting adventure that allows guests to scan a barcode to view videos showcasing each featured beer. The Rose City IPA, crafted specifically for the Rose City Airfest, is a must-try for those visiting this weekend. The brewery is located at 2453 Earl Campbell Parkway in Tyler, and it can be reached by phone 903-600-0125 or you can visit its website www.truevinebrewing.com.

Historic Aviation Memorial Museum

The Historic Aviation Memorial Museum offers a deep dive into American aviation history, featuring real military aircraft and historical memorabilia. Guests can engage with hands-on exhibits and even try a flight simulator, making it a captivating stop for aviation enthusiasts. The museum is located at 150 Airport Drive in Tyler, and it can be reached by phone 903-526-1945 or you can visit its website tylerhamm.org.

Caldwell Zoo

Caldwell Zoo hosts a Wild Bird Walkabout, allowing visitors to wander among free-flying parakeets and cockatiels. For $2, attendees can feed these colorful birds seed treats, providing a fun experience for animal lovers. The zoo is located at 2203 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard in Tyler, and it can be reached by phone 903-593-0121 or you can visit the zoo’s website caldwellzoo.org.

Stanley’s Famous Pit BBQ

Stanley’s Famous Pit BBQ features a Visit Tyler Whiskey Flight, showcasing three distinct whiskeys that embody the spirit of Tyler. Paired with the restaurant’s renowned barbecue, this tasting experience should take diners on a flavorful journey. Stanley’s also added an Afterburner burger to the menu for the occasion. The restaurant is located at 525 S. Beckham Avenue in Tyler, and it can be reached by phone 903-593-0311 or you can visit its website www.stanleysfamous.com.

American Freedom Museum

The American Freedom Museum presents a journey through pivotal moments in U.S. history. With over 650 artifacts on display, visitors can explore the Hall of Presidents and the Hall of American Freedom, highlighting the nation’s continuous fight for freedom. The museum is located at 1051 N. Houston Street in Bullard, and it can be reached by phone 903-894-5252 or you can visit its website americanfreedommuseum.org.

Tyler Junior College Planetarium

The Tyler Junior College Planetarium hosts engaging presentations on the science of flight, aimed at inspiring the next generation of aviators and engineers. Themes range from the mechanics of birds and kites to NASA’s future explorations.

The Planetarium will also hold its monthly Star Party on Saturday, offering free telescope viewing and live planetarium shows. Families are encouraged to attend this unique opportunity to explore the night sky and learn about astronomy. It is located at 1411 E. Lake Street in Tyler, and it can be reached by phone 903-510-2312 or you can visit its website sciencecenter.tjc.edu.

FIIZ Drinks

FIIZ Drinks introduces “Flying Through the Clouds,” a whimsical beverage featuring a mix of Sprite and blue raspberry, topped with whipped cream and a gummy fighter jet. This treat is a delightful addition to the Weekend of Flight festivities. The business is located at 1411 E. Lake Street in Tyler, and it can be reached by phone 903-258-9777 or you can visit its website fiizdrinks.com.

Twelve Kitchen & Cocktails

Twelve Kitchen & Cocktails presents the Flight Deck Flat Iron, featuring premium Wagyu steak with an elevated dining experience as high as the skies. This dish is a highlight for food enthusiasts attending the AirFest. The restaurant is located at 405 W SW Loop 323 in Tyler, and it can be reached by phone 903-787-5113 or you can visit its website twelve903.com.

East Texas Brewing Co.

East Texas Brewing Co. is featuring the Altitude Adjuster, which includes both a flight of four beers and a selection of four beer-brined wings. With a variety of flavors, this culinary experience caters to beer lovers and wing enthusiasts alike. The brewery is located at 221 S. Broadway Avenue in Tyler, and it can be reached by phone 903-630-7720 or you can visit its website at etxbrew.com.

Rosevine Inn

Visitors can consider booking a stay at the Rosevine Inn, which offers a flight-themed ambiance. This charming accommodation provides an ideal launchpad for exploring the airshow and all that Tyler has to offer. It is located at 415 S. Vine Avenue in Tyler, and the inn can be reached by phone 903-592-2221 or you can visit its website www.rosevine.com.

The Board Room

The Board Room invites families and friends to engage in flight-themed board games, including “First in Flight!” This veteran-owned establishment promises a weekend of friendly competition and fun for all ages. It is located at 3502 S Broadway Avenue, Suite 406 in Tyler, and it can be reached by phone 903-483-4189 or you can visit boardroomtyler.com.

Wing Zone

Wing Zone is introducing its Bomber Fries, a hearty dish featuring golden fries topped with creamy mac and cheese and crispy boneless wings. For $10.99, this meal is ideal for those seeking comfort food during the festivities. The restaurant is located at 1400 W SW Loop 323 #20 in Tyler, and it can be reached by phone 903-787-5006 or you can visit order.wingzone.com/store/13909.

Juicy J Wings

Juicy J Wings offers an array of wing flavors, from classic favorites like lemon pepper and hickory barbecue to options such as mango habanero. This spot is sure to satisfy wing lovers during the Weekend of Flight. They will have a food truck next to True Vine Brewing, located 2453 Earl Campbell Parkway in Tyler. For more information, visit their Facebook page www.facebook.com/JuicyJwings.

Javi’s

Javi’s features its signature “Flight Plan Flan,” a creamy dessert for those looking to sweeten their Weekend of Flight experience. The restaurant is located at 405 WSW Loop 323 in Tyler, and it can be reached by phone 903-787-5111 or you can visit javis903.com.

Scavenger hunts

The Tyler Rose Garden is challenging visitors to find flight-themed rose variants among its 14 acres of blooms. This engaging activity combines nature with the excitement of the Airfest. The garden is located at 420 Rose Park Drive in Tyler, and it can be reached by phone 903-531-1212 or visit www.cityoftyler.org for more information. For a complete list of roses, visit www.visittyler.com/p/events/weekend-of-flight.

The Smith County Master Gardeners have a few gardens throughout Tyler. Check out the IDEA Garden, located in the southeast corner of the Tyler Rose Garden, and the Goodman Museum, at 624 N. Broadway Ave., to see if you can spot any flight-themed plants. For the complete list of plants, visit www.visittyler.com/p/events/weekend-of-flight.

Lake Palestine

Guests can take to the waters of Lake Palestine by renting a pontoon boat for a scenic exploration. After enjoying the lake, visitors can stop by the Harbour Grille and Bar for delicious food and drinks with stunning views. For more information, you can visit their website www.lakepalestinetexas.com.

Waterpark at the Villages

The Waterpark at the Villages invites guests to relax and unwind on its Lazy River, where you can feel like you’re floating on a cloud. For those seeking thrills, glide and soar down the exhilarating body and tube slides, making it a perfect spot for family fun during the Weekend of Flight. The location is 18270 Singing Wood Lane in Flint, and it can be reached by phone 903-534-8400 or you can visit www.visittyler.com/business/waterpark-at-the-villages.

Disc Golf

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy disc golf at various local parks, including Lindsey Park (12557 Spur 362 W), Noble E. Young Park (3081 Towne Park. Dr., 3125 Seaton St.), The Roc (18700 Highway 69), UT Tyler (3900 University Blvd.), and Tyler Junior College (northwest corner of E. Devine St. and S. Tipton Ave.)

For more things to do in Tyler, go online to www.visittyler.com/businesses/to-do.

If You Go

WHAT: 4th annual Rose City Airfest

WHERE: Tyler Pounds Regional Airport’s Historic Aviation Memorial Museum, 150 Airport Blvd.

WHEN: Saturday. Parking will open at 9 am., and gates open at 10 a.m. The air show begins at 3 p.m. but there will be various events throughout the day.

COST: Tickets for adults cost $35 if purchased before the show, and they cost $5 for children ages 12 to 5. Children ages 5 and under get in for free.

TICKETS: To purchase tickets for the show and/or tickets to ride in a historic plane, visit https://tinyurl.com/rosecityairfest2024.