Besides the Saskatchewan Roughriders, the team Saskatchewanians are most proud of is the Canadian Forces Snowbirds. They perform at fairs and festivals all over Canada and the United States while proudly calling Moose Jaw their home base. The snowbirds were officially formed in the early 1970’s but their history really goes back to World War Two when they were originally called 431 Iroquois Squadron and acted as support for the RAF Bomber Command.
Over the years 431 Squadron used different jets and were tasked with various assignments but it wasn’t until 1969 when CFB Moose Jaw Base Commander Colonel O.B. Philp wanted to create an aerobatic demonstration team. By 1971 the squadron grew to seven aircraft with multiple pilots who gained significant recognition for their air demonstrations and flybys. The name “Snowbirds” was adopted in 1971 after a contest was organized at a local elementary school in Moose Jaw.
Today, the Snowbirds still use those iconic red and white CT-114 Tudor jets that have delighted audiences for over 50 years. There has been talk of updating the planes due to their age, but so far, the Tudors are still in use thanks to high quality maintenance by air force mechanics.
The snowbirds have released their 2025 schedule which includes 23 flybys and performances across Canada and four dates scheduled in the US. So far, no Saskatchewan performances are scheduled, however it’s not uncommon for the Snowbirds to do a surprise performance for the people are of their home province.
