Fleet week in New York
Fleet week in New York: in honor of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, Fleet Week New York 2025 has turned the city into a lively celebration of maritime heritage.
With the theme “Honoring the Past, Defending the Future: 250 Years of Sea Service Excellence,” this year’s event is especially noteworthy as it commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Navy and Marine Corps.
Read also: List of public holidays in New York.
Fleet week in New York
Fleet Week is a tradition where active U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard ships returning from overseas deployments dock in major cities for a week.
During this time, crew members explore the city, and the public can take guided tours of the ships.
The event often features military demonstrations and air shows, including performances by the Blue Angels.
History: From 1898 to the Present
Although Fleet Week as we know it today started in 1982, its origins date back to 1898, when Commodore George Dewey emerged victorious from Manila Bay in the Spanish-American War.
Since then, Fleet Week has developed into a beloved New York City custom that provides civilians with a special chance to interact with military personnel and tour naval ships.
Fleet Week 2025: Highlights
Ship Parade
The famous Parade of Ships along the Hudson River kicked off the celebrations on May 21. The Royal Canadian Navy’s HMCS Frédérick Rolette, two Coast Guard cutters, five Navy Academy Yard Patrol boats, and two U.S. Navy ships participated in this year’s procession.
Ship Tours and Demonstrations
Visitors can take a tour of a number of vessels:
- USS New York (LPD 21) at Pier 88 South.
- USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) at the Homeport Pier on Staten Island.
- USCGC Calhoun (WMSL 759) at Pier 90 North.
- USCGC Sturgeon Bay (WTGB 109) at the Homeport Pier on Staten Island.
On certain days, tours are offered from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Events at the Intrepid Museum
From May 23 to 26, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum will host a number of events, such as:
- On the flight deck, a free screening of Top Gun movie.
- Military contests and challenges.
- Interactive displays from different branches of the military.
- A May 26 Memorial Day ceremony.
Fleet week in New York: Participation of the Community
The U.S. Navy engaged 300 NJROTC cadets with career talks and demonstrations when they landed an MH-60S Knighthawk helicopter on the baseball field of Benjamin N. Cardozo High School in Queens as part of a unique outreach initiative.
Honoring Service and Sacrifice
Special Memorial Day weekend benefits, including discounts at 34 city locations like the American Museum of Natural History and the Bronx Zoo, were announced by Mayor Eric Adams for active military personnel, veterans, and their families. To commemorate the 2.9 million Americans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, a historic parade is also scheduled for July 6, 2026.
With its celebration and contemplation of the sacrifices made by service members, Fleet Week 2025 is a testament to the long-lasting relationship between New York City and the maritime services.
Read also: How to use public transit in New York.
