Upcoming Events and Activities

Opening Parade of Ships
The 250th anniversary celebrations kick off on October 9 and continue through October 16, 2025. These festivities will feature free signature events along both banks of the Delaware River, attracting veterans, families, tourists, educators, and history buffs to the Tri-State area. The opening ceremonies on October 9 will include a stunning parade of modern military ships on the river, followed by a formal blessing of the fleet. Watch parties will be held at the Navy Yard, Fort Mifflin, and Penn’s Landing in Philadelphia, as well as at Fort Mercer and the Camden Waterfront in New Jersey.

Exploring History
This special week will serve up a diverse selection of free events ensuring there's something for everyone. If you are history enthusiasts, you will be able to delve into many exhibits featured at several esteemed museums in Philadelphia such as the Independence Seaport Museum, the American Swedish Historical Museum, the Library Company of Philadelphia, the African American Museum in Philadelphia, and the Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial in Camden to name a few. Each will display various aspects of the Navy and Marine Corps’ long and prestigious history. Educators will participate in academic symposiums hosted by the University of Pennsylvania and Rutgers University-Camden that will explore 250 years of Navy and Marine Corps history and impact.

Navy and Marines on Display

The week’s activities will also feature a variety of past and active equipment for all to enjoy. Visitors can take a step back in time by touring historic ships like the cruiser Olympia, submarine Becuna, and Battleship New Jersey. Other replica and active-duty ships are expected to be available for tours during this amazing celebration. And if you look to the skies, you’ll see a variety of heritage and active-duty aircraft highlighted by a spectacular flyover by the Blue Angels on October 13.

Celebrating our Veterans
Homecoming 250 will host a unique All Veterans Reunion Picnic will be held on Independence Mall in Philadelphia, providing a day of camaraderie, remembrance, and celebration for veterans. This event will feature various Veteran Service Organizations offering support, resources, and information to honor and assist those who have served.

More Sights and Sounds

Major activities will take place on Independence Mall, showcasing a vibrant celebration of military history and culture. Military Bands and the Silent Drill Platoon will perform throughout the week. Highlights include a preview screening of acclaimed filmmaker Ken Burns' The American Revolution and a Victory at Sea concert, featuring performances by bands from both the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.

Physical Challenges
Homecoming 250 will feature several athletic events as part of the week’s celebrations, including a 250th Anniversary run where participants can race alongside Marines and Sailors. Additionally, the Navy SEAL Family Foundation is organizing an Around the World Paddle Classic on the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers.

Honoring Our Active, Fallen, and Future Military
More activities honoring the Navy and Marine Corps will feature a distinguished Navy 250th Gala, a reflective memorial service for fallen service members at Philadelphia's historic Christ Church, and a 250th We Salute Youth parade presenting midshipmen, ROTC, and JROTC participants.

Careers in the Navy and Marine Corps, and Maritime Industry
For those wanting to know more about pursuing career opportunities in the Navy or Marine Corps, Maritime workforce Outreach coordinators and members of the Navy and Marine Corps will be present to offer valuable insights into the diverse career options available. From opportunities in the maritime, shipbuilding and defense industries, and Navy and Marine Corps specialties like surface, subsurface, aviation, medicine and leadership and technical roles, there are lots of options to be explored.

Wrapping Up Homecoming 250 Week
On October 16, celebrations wrap up with the ships departing and final closing ceremonies.

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