The celebration will begin Oct. 9 with a Parade of Ships featuring 10 Navy and Coast Guard vessels, including the USS Arlington, USS Lassen, USS Billings, and USS Cooperstown
The Philadelphia region will host a series of events this fall to commemorate the 250th birthdays of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.
Designated as the official national commemoration, the Navy and Marine Corps 250th Celebration will take place from Oct. 9 to Oct. 16, with additional events from Nov. 7 to Nov. 11, Homecoming 250 Navy Marine Corps announced.
The celebration is expected to draw visitors from across the country to Philadelphia, Camden, New Jersey, and the Delaware River waterfront.
“This fall, we’re not just commemorating history, we’re creating it,” Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker said. “From daily tours of naval ships along the Delaware River, to the nationally televised concert, a patriotic parade, and the thrilling Blue Angels flyovers, this will be a once-in-a-generation celebration.”
The celebration will begin Oct. 9 with a Parade of Ships featuring 10 Navy and Coast Guard vessels, including the USS Arlington, USS Lassen, USS Billings, and USS Cooperstown. Two Coast Guard cutters, USCG Lawrence Lawson and USCG James Rankin, will also participate.
“The sight of these Navy ships sailing up the Delaware River will be nothing short of awe-inspiring,” said George Leone, president of Homecoming 250.
Two USNA MKII 44′ midshipmen training sailboats and two USNA YP 686-class midshipmen training patrol crafts will also join the parade.
The vessels will dock at four locations and will be open for free public tours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily from Oct. 10 to Oct. 15.
Additional events include an All Veterans Reunion Picnic judged by celebrity Chef Robert Irvine that will be followed by the nationally televised Victory at Sea Concert featuring The U.S. Navy Band and the Commandant’s Own United States Marine Drum and Bugle Corps.
The celebration will also feature the Innovation Pavilion at Cherry Street Pier, a three-day showcase of maritime, defense, and manufacturing technologies.
The Navy’s 250th birthday on Oct. 13 will be marked by a grand Navy & Marine Corps 250th Parade and a Blue Angels flyover above Independence Hall. Several other flyovers are planned throughout the celebration.
A look at events and activities related to the celebration:
Thursday, October 9
● Parade of Ships: On Thursday morning, spectators will witness a stunning maritime procession as ten Navy and Coast Guard ships make their way on the historic Delaware River, arriving in Philadelphia and Camden County, NJ, for the celebration. The Opening Ceremony will be held at the Navy Yard welcoming the ships with a traditional Blessing of the Fleet, officially kicking off the festivities. Watch parties for the parade of ships will take place at various locations in Pennsylvania and New Jersey and are free and open to the public.
● Innovation Pavilion at Cherry Street Pier (121 N Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19106): From Noon to 4 p.m., the public is invited to visit the Innovation Pavilion and explore breakthrough technologies from leading innovators in the maritime, defense, and manufacturing sectors. Registration required. Free and open to the public.
● WHYY Preview of Ken Burns’ The American Revolution at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion (1 Harbour Blvd., Camden, NJ 08103) In partnership with WHYY, Homecoming 250 invites the public to enjoy an exclusive preview screening of acclaimed filmmaker Ken Burns’ The American Revolution at the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion in Camden, NJ, at 7 p.m. Through his signature blend of powerful storytelling and historical insight, Ken Burns brings to life the complex and transformative birth of the United States. Following the screening, the audience will enjoy a rare and intimate conversation with Ken Burns conducted live by WHYY‘s Terry Gross. Registration required. Free and open to the public.
Friday, October 10
● Innovation Pavilion at Cherry Street Pier (121 N Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19106): From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., join industry leaders, panelists, and bestselling authors for a full day of insights, networking, and updates on the future of American manufacturing and defense. Ticket required.
● Navigating the Past: Histories of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, 1775-2025 Conference Part 1 (Kislak Center, Van Pelt Library, 3420 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104): The two-part conference brings together leading scholars from across the full sweep of U.S. history to explore the Navy and Marine Corps. The opening day, hosted by the McNeil Center for Early American Studies, will convene at the University of Pennsylvania’s Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts in the Van Pelt Library from 8:45 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. This day’s sessions will focus on the formative years from 1775 to 1850, offering fresh perspectives on the maritime forces’ role in shaping the nation. Free and open to the public. Ticket required.
● Army-Navy Cup at Subaru Park XIV Presented by Leidos (1 Stadium Dr., Chester, PA 19013): The storied soccer rivalry between Army West Point and the U.S. Naval Academy returns to Subaru Park, home of the Philadelphia Union, for the 14th annual Army-Navy Cup. For the first time in the event’s 14-year history, the Cup will include both men’s and women’s soccer matches in a marquee doubleheader. The women’s match kicks off at 4:00 p.m., followed by the men’s match at 7:00 p.m. Ticket required.
Saturday, October 11
● Innovation Pavilion at Cherry Street Pier (121 N Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19106): From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the high technology located inside the pavilion will showcase workforce opportunities in the shipbuilding and maritime industries. The public is also invited to engage with hands-on demonstrations, career exploration experiences, and student programming designed to inspire the next generation. Free and open to the public.
● Navigating the Past: Histories of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, 1775-2025 Conference Part 2 (100 Clinton St., Camden, NJ 08103) From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., climb aboard the historic Battleship New Jersey for day two of the Navigating the Past History Symposium, hosted by Rutgers University-Camden, exploring the modern legacy and evolution of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps through engaging talks from distinguished historians. With America’s most decorated battleship as the backdrop, it’s a must-attend for history buffs, military scholars, and anyone passionate about naval heritage. Open to the public. Ticket required.
● Navy-Temple Football Game at Lincoln Financial Field (One Lincoln Financial Field Way, Philadelphia, PA 19148): The historic multi-decade football rivalry between the United States Naval Academy and Temple University continues at Lincoln Financial Field. The Owls and Midshipmen have faced off 19 times since the rivalry began in 1988, with Navy leading the all-time series 10-9. Ticket required.
● U.S. Navy and Marine Corps 2.50-Mile Run: Details to come.
● Navy 250 Gala at the National Constitution Center Presented by Exiger (525 Arch St., Philadelphia, PA 19106): At 6 p.m., the public is invited to raise a glass alongside naval leadership in celebration of the Navy’s 250th Birthday at the Navy 250 Gala, held at the National Constitution Center overlooking historic Independence Hall, where the Navy was born. Ticket required.
Sunday, October 12:
● Old St. Mary’s Mass and Commodore Barry Wreath Laying (252 South 4th St., Philadelphia, PA 19106): At 10 a.m., the public is invited to attend a special Mass at historic Old St. Mary’s Church, led by Father DiGirolamo. Immediately following the service, representatives of the Friendly Sons and Daughters of St. Patrick and the U.S. Navy will lead a wreath-laying ceremony at the gravesite of Commodore John Barry, widely regarded as the “Father of the U.S. Navy,” located just behind the church. Free and open to the public.
● All Veterans Reunion Picnic at Independence Mall (615 Market St., Philadelphia, PA 19106): From noon to 5 p.m., a special Sunday picnic for Veterans from all armed services, their families, and the community will be held on Independence Mall. The family-friendly event will offer a full day of fun, featuring food competitions and cook-offs judged by British Royal Navy Veteran and celebrity chef Robert Irvine, special ceremonies honoring veterans, delicious food, and a variety of additional activities for all ages. The picnic will also feature various Veteran service organizations providing support, resources, and information to honor and assist those who have served. Free and open to the public.
● “Victory at Sea” Concert at Independence Mall (615 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19106): Following the picnic, attendees are invited to stay for a star-studded patriotic concert on Independence Mall starting at 6 p.m. The “Victory at Sea” Concert will feature various performances, including a performance from the United States Navy Band and the U.S. Marine Drum & Bugle Corps, and headliners, followed by fireworks. Free and open to the public.
Monday, October 13:
● Flag Raising Ceremony at Philadelphia City Hall (1400 JFK Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19107): Details to come.
● Thanksgiving & Remembrance Ceremony at Christ Church (20 N. American St., Philadelphia, PA 19106): At 9:30 a.m., the public is invited to Philadelphia’s historic Christ Church, located near the site where the first Navy ship was commissioned, to honor and remember those who gave their lives in the line of duty. Free and open to the public.
● Navy & Marine Corps 250th Parade (JFK Blvd & 20th St. to 520 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19106): Beginning at 11 a.m., the public is invited to experience a two-hour patriotic spectacle featuring more than 7,000 participants, including high school and college marching bands, the U.S. Naval Academy’s Silent Drill Platoon and Drum & Bugle Corps, and various floats and cold-air balloons. The parade will also honor future military leaders, including midshipmen and students from ROTC, NROTC, JROTC, and United States Sea Cadets programs. The Navy & Marine Corps 250th Parade steps off at JFK Boulevard and 20th Street and ends at Independence Mall. Free and open to the public.
● Navy 250th Commemoration at Independence Hall (520 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19106): From 2 to 3 p.m., the public is invited to attend the Navy 250th Commemoration at Independence Hall, an event honoring the 250th anniversary of the Navy’s founding. The special event will feature remarks from public officials. Free and open to the public.
● Flyover by the Blue Angels at Independence Hall (520 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19106): Attendees of the Navy 250th Commemoration at Independence Hall will witness a thrilling flyover by the Blue Angels, including an area-wide flyover, in honor of the Navy’s 250th Anniversary. Free and open to the public.
● Leadership Summit & Conversation with Navy & Marine Corps Leaders: Launching the Next 250 Years (140 S Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19102): From 3:30 to 6:30 p.m., join the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, in partnership with Homecoming 250, for an evening celebrating the legacy of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Enjoy a networking reception with leaders across sectors, followed by an engaging conversation with senior Naval leadership offering insight into service, leadership, current events, and the future of the Navy and Marine Corps. Ticket required.
Reoccurring Daily Events
Friday, October 10 to Wednesday, October 15
● Ship Tours: From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, families can explore an impressive lineup of active duty and historic Navy ships, including the Cruiser Olympia, Battleship New Jersey, and submarine Becuna. Public tours of the active-duty Navy ships will be available at their berths in Philadelphia and Camden County, NJ, and will be free and open to the public.
Saturday, October 11 to Wednesday, October 15
● Navy and Marine Corps Static Displays: Details to come.
Monday, October 13 to Wednesday, October 15
● U.S. Marine Corps Band and Silent Drill Platoon Performances: Details to come.
In November, Homecoming 250 will present an additional lineup of free and ticketed events in honor of the 250th anniversary of the United States Marine Corps. These commemorative experiences will offer the public and Marines alike an opportunity to engage with the Corps’ rich history and enduring legacy through special programming, performances, and ceremonies. Highlights include:
Monday, November 10:
● Ceremony at the Resting Place of the First Commandant (320 Arch St., Philadelphia, PA 19106): At 9 a.m., the public is invited to the historic Arch Street Meeting House grounds to honor Samuel Nicholas, the first commandant of the Marine Corps. The ceremony is held in cooperation with the Corporal Brandon Hardy Chester County Detachment #286 of the Marine Corps League. Free and open to the public. Space is limited.
● Marine Corps 250th Commemoration at Independence Hall (520 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19106): At 10:30 a.m., the public is invited to return to Independence Hall for a special commemoration honoring the 250th anniversary of the Marine Corps’ founding there, featuring remarks by military and public officials. Free and open to the public.
● 100th Marine Corps Birthday Ball at the Bellevue Hotel (200 S Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19102): At 6 p.m., the public is invited to celebrate 250 years of the United States Marine Corps at the birthplace of one of its most cherished traditions, the Marine Corps Birthday Ball. Homecoming 250 is hosting the 100th Marine Corps Birthday Ball in the very same ballroom where Commandant Lejeune hosted the inaugural celebration a century ago. Ticket required. Tickets can be purchased HERE.
To further enrich their experience, visitors are encouraged to explore special museum exhibits in Philadelphia and Camden during the Navy & Marine Corps 250th Celebration. The exhibits highlight the proud history, enduring legacy, and vital contributions of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. From rare ship models to inspiring naval stories, each exhibit offers a unique opportunity to dive deeper into America’s maritime heritage and discover even more of what the region has to offer during the historic celebration.
Naval & Marine Corps Museum Exhibitions:
Independence Seaport Museum: Ongoing
● Small but Mighty!: Models, Toys and Miniature Ships (211 S Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19106): Featuring nearly 50 rarely seen models, the exhibit explores the history and evolution of the U.S. Navy through a range of ship models, from historic Navy vessels and Pond Yacht models to toy models that would have been sailed on the floor of large Victorian homes in the 19th century.
● Patriots & Pirates Ongoing (211 S Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19106): Discover Philadelphia’s role in the founding of the United States Navy at the Pirates & Patriots exhibit. Learn how the Navy was born out of debate right here in the city, and why Philadelphia’s shipbuilders were key to its creation. Explore artifacts and stories that bring this pivotal moment in history to life.
Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial: Ongoing
● Shipbuilding of the Delaware River (62 Battleship Pl., Camden, NJ 08103): The exhibit highlights the rich history of ship construction and repair along the Delaware River. The exhibit showcases artifacts and tools from historic shipyards, including items recovered during the Battleship New Jersey’s 2024 drydocking, offering a closer look at the craftsmanship and innovation that shaped America’s maritime legacy.
● Support Any Friend Fall 2025 (62 Battleship Pl., Camden, NJ 08103): Created by the Naval History and Heritage Command, the exhibit showcases the history of the Navy communities, including aviation, special forces, and surface warfare, in the second half of the 20th century.
Andalusia Historic House, Gardens & Arboretum: Now through November 14
● Commodore James Biddle (1237 State Rd., Andalusia, PA 19020): Explore the remarkable naval career of Commodore James Biddle, who helped shape the early U.S. Navy. Biddle oversaw Philadelphia’s U.S. Naval Asylum, the Navy’s early officer training site before the Academy moved to Annapolis.
American Swedish Historical Museum: June 26 to January 4, 2026
● And Let Victory Tell the Rest: 250 Years of Navy Shipbuilding in Philadelphia (1900 Pattison Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19145): Greater Philadelphia has long been a hub for U.S. Navy shipbuilding, from the Revolutionary War to the Cold War. The exhibit, curated by the National Museum of the United States Navy, highlights the region’s historic contributions, the ships built in the region, and the people behind them.
American Helicopter Museum: August 1 to November 9
● Over the Horizon (1220 American Blvd., West Chester, PA 19380): The exhibit from the American Helicopter Museum showcases the evolution of naval helicopters through aircraft, models, photos, and video, highlighting roles from anti-submarine warfare to beach landings.
African American Museum of Philadelphia: September 13 to March 2026
● Sailing to Freedom: Maritime Dimensions of the Underground Railroad (701 Arch St., Philadelphia, PA 19106): The powerful exhibition deepens our understanding of how African Americans have historically fought for life, liberty, and happiness, both within and beyond America’s borders. Sailing to Freedom centers on the largely untold story of enslaved African Americans who escaped bondage by sea, highlighting the maritime Underground Railroad as a critical, yet overlooked, path to freedom.
Historical Society of Pennsylvania: October 8 to January 9, 2026
● To Provide a Naval Armament: United States Navy and Marine History, 1775 – 1958 (1300 Locust St., Philadelphia, PA 19107): The exhibit, presented in partnership with Homecoming 250, draws on the Historical Society of Pennsylvania’s collections to explore Navy and Marine Corps history from the Revolution through the Cold War, anchored in the people and stories of Philadelphia.
Pennsylvania Hospital: October 6 to November 20
● From Wharf to Ward: Pennsylvania Hospital & Marine Health, 1799 – 1830 (800 Spruce St., Philadelphia, PA 19107): The exhibit explores Pennsylvania Hospital’s role as the designated Marine Hospital for the Philadelphia area during the early republic, highlighting its care for merchant seamen and contributions to maritime medicine.
To stay updated on the latest Navy & Marine Corps 250th Celebration activities and events, visit Homecoming 250’s website here.
