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Admission is free.
Event founder Dewey Davenport, a barnstormer himself, has seen attendance double since drawing around 2,000 people in 2014. He wouldn’t be surprised to see near 7,000 based on the numerous calls he’s gotten about this year’s carnival.
“People love it,” he said. “You can bring the kids out and not spend any money. It’s about bringing awareness to the community about these vintage aircraft and there’s a community of flyers out there willing to show what the golden age of aviation was about.”
Davenport was just a wide-eyed kid when he discovered such aircraft and why he’s giving back, responsible for most of the carnival’s expense out of pocket with help from a few sponsors.
New this year is a 1930 New Standard D-25 biplane, which was considered the ultimate barnstorming hauler with a cockpit big enough for four people according to Davenport. Only eight of these aircraft are still flying today, he said.
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For additional costs, attendees can make the occasion more memorable with a biplane ride, including from Davenport, who operates Goodfolk & O’Tymes Biplane Rides, a Xenia-based company, offering rides in a 1929 Curtiss Wright Travel Air 4000.
A new addition to the fun is a Hangar Dance, 7:30-11 p.m. Saturday in the SelectTech hangar. Admission is $5.
Dave Greer and his Classic Jazz Stompers and Gem City Swing will perform live, and dance lessons will be available before at 7 p.m.
Food vendors will also be on site, as well as kids’ activities including a bounce house, face painting, model airplanes demonstrations and a balloon-tying clown.
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A pancake breakfast will begin each day from 8-11 a.m. for $5, sponsored by the Hustead Fire Department.
Another new feature on Sunday afternoon is a powered rocket building workshop for youths starting at 2 p.m., followed by a launch at 4 p.m. The cost is $5.
“It’s been a great thing. People can stay all day, kids can get in a craft, touch it and meet the barnstormers who love to show their crafts,” Davenport said.
HOW TO GO
What: Barnstorming Carnival
Where: Springfield-Beckley Municipal Airport and Airpark, 1251 West Blee Rd., Springfield
When: Saturday, July 15, 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday, July 16, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: free; some activities require a fee
More info: call 937-877-0837 or go to www.barnstormingcarnival.com
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