October 9, 2025

Parade of Ships and Opening Ceremonies
Location: Delaware River Waterfront

On Thursday morning, 8am-12pm spectators will witness watch parties all along the Delaware River as approximately eight Navy ships, two Coast Guard cutters, and other vessels sail to Philadelphia and Camden County, with a flyover by Navy and Marine Corps Aircraft and the historic Goodyear Blimp. Watch party locations will be announced soon. Free and open to the public.

[Ship types: San Antonio-class amphibious ship, Arleigh-Burke-class destroyer, Freedom-class littoral combat ships, Naval Academy Yard Patrol boats, Naval Academy sailboats, Coast Guard Fast Response Cutter and Buoy Tender.]

EVENT DETAILS

Homecoming 250 Opening Ceremony
Location: Navy Yard

Welcome the Navy and Coast Guard ships as they pass the historic Philadelphia Navy Yard. The Opening Ceremony will include expert narration of the Parade, welcoming remarks, music, and the blessing of the fleet. Free and open to the public.

Innovation Pavilion at Cherry Street Pier
Location: 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 maritime, defense, and manufacturing. Free and open to the public.

Event Details

Dedication of the USS Enterprise Name Plate
Location: Battleship New Jersey, 100 Clinton St., Camden.

At 3pm, see the Holy Grail of U.S. Navy artifacts – the Stern Plate bearing the name of the USS Enterprise, one of the Navy’s original carriers, that fought in almost every carrier battle in the Pacific. This rare artifact of the most decorated Navy ship ever will be on display

WHYY Preview of Ken Burns' The American Revolution at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion
Location: 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.

Walking Tours of Navy and Marine Corps History
Location: Starts at: Independence National Historical Park

Explore where Philadelphia gave birth to the Navy and Marine Corps and was their home for over 200 years. Expert guides will show you where that history happened, from Independence National Historical Park to the Navy Yard to the resting places of the heroes. Ticket required.

October 10, 2025

Innovation Pavilion at Cherry Street Pier
Location: 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. Tickets required.

EVENT DETAILS

Navigating the Past: Histories of the US Navy and Marine Corps, 1775-2025 Conference Part 1
Location: 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 McNeilCenter 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
Location: 1 Stadium Drive, 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 annual rivalry will include both men’s and women’s soccer matches in a marquee doubleheader. The women’s match kicks off at 4 p.m., followed by the men’s match at 7 p.m. Tickets for the doubleheader will go on sale in July. One ticket grants access to both matches.

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Ship Tours
Locations: Philadelphia and Camden County

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, families can explore an impressive lineup of historic, replica, and active-duty Navy ships, including the Cruiser Olympia, Battleship New Jersey, and submarine Becuna. Public tours of the active-duty ships will be available at their berths in Philadelphia and Camden County, New Jersey and will be free and open to the public.

USN Dive Tank and USN/UMSC Static Displays
Location: TBD

From 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Interact with Navy divers and see Navy and Marine Corps equipment and other displays. Details to be announced

USN/USMC Rocky Steps Run
Location: TBD

At 7:30 a.m. join Sailors and Marines as they race to the storied steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Details to be announced.

Camden City Hall Flag Raising Ceremony
Location: Camden City Hall

Time: 8 a.m. Details TBD

Wreath Laying for Tench Francis, founder Navy Supply Corps
Location: Christ Church

Time: 10:30 a.m. Details TBD

Navy Band Concert at Philadelphia Museum of Art
Location: Philadelphia Museum of Art

Details TBD

October 11, 2025

Innovation Pavilion at Cherry Street Pier
Location: 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 ship-building 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.

EVENT DETAILS

Navigating the Past: Histories of the US Navy and Marine Corps, 1775-2025 Conference Part 2
Location: 100 Clinton St., Camden, NJ 08103

From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., climb aboard the historic Battleship New Jersey for day two of the Navigating the Past History Symposium, hosted byRutgers University-Camden, exploring the modern legacy and evolution of the U.S. Navy andMarine 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
Location: 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 the Navy leading the all-time series 10 to 9. Ticket required. BUY TICKETS HERE

U.S. Navy and Marine Corps 2.50-mile Run
Details to come.

Ship Tours
Locations: Philadelphia and Camden County

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, families can explore an impressive lineup of historic, replica, and active-duty Navy ships, including the Cruiser Olympia, Battleship New Jersey, and submarine Becuna. Public tours of the active-duty ships will be available at their berths in Philadelphia and Camden County, New Jersey and will be free and open to the public.

Navy 250 Gala at the National Constitution Center
Location: 525 Arch Street, 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 United States Navy was born. BUY TICKETS HERE.

Beirut Memorial Ceremony
Location: Foglietta Plaza

Time: 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Details TBD

EVENT DETAILS

Aviation Flyovers over the Delaware Valley
Location: Delaware Valley

At 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. marvel as Navy and Marine Corps aircraft fly over the area twice daily.

Navy Yard Aviation Program, Marine Parade Ground
Location: Navy Yard

Time: 10:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Details TBD

October 12, 2025

Old St. Mary’s Mass and Commodore Barry Wreath Laying
Location: 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 American Navy,” located just behind the church. Free and open to the public.

All Veterans Reunion Picnic
Location: 615 Chestnut Street, 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 live music performances, food competitions, 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. Featuring guest star and celebrity chef Robert Irvine! Free and open to the public.

EVENT DETAILS

Laurel Hill East Cemetery Tours
Location: 3822 Ridge Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19132

From 1 P.M to 3 P.M. To celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the Navy and Marine Corps, Laurel Hill will offer two special tours of our cemeteries! The first tour will occur at Laurel Hill East and highlight the most notable members of the Navy, Marine Corps, and an added bonus of members of the Army.

“Victory At Sea” Concert at Independence Mall
Location: 615 Chestnut Street, 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 Elite Marine Corp Band and others. The concert will be followed by fireworks. Free and open to the public.

EVENT DETAILS

Ship Tours
Locations: Philadelphia and Camden County

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, families can explore an impressive lineup of historic, replica, and active-duty Navy ships, including the Cruiser Olympia, Battleship New Jersey, and submarine Becuna. Public tours of the active-duty ships will be available at their berths in Philadelphia and Camden County, New Jersey and will be free and open to the public.

Aviation Flyovers over the Delaware Valley
Location: Delaware Valley

At 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. marvel as Navy and Marine Corps aircraft fly over the area twice daily.

October 13, 2025

Flag Raising Ceremony at Philadelphia City Hall
Location: 1400 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Time: 8 a.m. Details to come.

Thanksgiving and Remembrance Ceremony at Christ Church
Location: 20 North American Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106

From 9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m., the public is invited to honor and remember those who gave their lives in the line of duty at Philadelphia’s historic Christ Church, located near the site where the first Navy ship was commissioned. Free and open to the public.

VIP Events at Independence Hall and Congress Hall

Following the service from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., VIPs will tour Independence Hall where the Continental Navy and Marines were created, and gather at a VIP event at Congress Hall where the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps were created. The Congress Hall event will be attended by members of Congress and foreign heads of Navy as well as U.S. Navy and Marine Corps leadership.

Navy & Marine Corps 250 Parade
Location: John F Kennedy Boulevard & 20th Street to 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106

Beginning at 11 a.m., the public is invited to enjoy this two-hour spectacle, with floats, balloons, and marching bands, as well as Navy and Marine Corps vehicles of the past and present. Additionally, the parade will honor young people on the path to military service, including Naval Academy midshipmen and students from ROTC, NROTC, and JROTC programs. The parade will step off at JFK Boulevard and 20th Street and conclude at Independence Mall. Free and open to the public.

Aviation Flyovers over the Delaware Valley
Location: Delaware Valley

At 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. marvel as Navy and Marine Corps aircraft fly over the area twice daily.

Official Opening of the U.S. Navy Museum’s Exhibit “Navy 250: The Legacy”
Location: National Museum of the U.S. Navy

At 1:30 p.m. welcome the official ribbon-cutting for the National Museum of the U.S. Navy’s special exhibit, including “We Stand the Watch,” a multimedia exhibit on life in the Navy through 250 years of history, and an immersive experience, at 100 Independence Mall. Free and open to the public.

Event Details

Navy 250th Commemoration at Independence Hall
Location: 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106

From 12:30 to 2 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
Location: 520 Chestnut Street, 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.

Homecoming 250 Leadership Summit Reception and World Affairs Council’s Conversation with Navy & Marine Corps Leaders: Launching the Next 250 Years
Location: 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.

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Navy and Marine Corps Static Displays
Details to come.

U.S. Marine Corps Band and Silent Drill Platoon Performances
Details to come.

Homecoming 250 Fireworks Over the Delaware

From 6 p.m. to 8:20 p.m. cap off the Navy and Marine Corps 250th Celebration with concerts on both sides of Delaware River, where the Navy and Marines launched their first ships and missions. Then we’ll have fireworks over Navy, Coast Guard, and historical ships on the river. The aerial show will be enhanced by lighted ships, cannon salutes, and music. Viewable from Penn’s Landing and the Camden Waterfront. Free and open to the public.

Ship Tours
Locations: Philadelphia and Camden County

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, families can explore an impressive lineup of historic, replica, and active-duty Navy ships, including the Cruiser Olympia, Battleship New Jersey, and submarine Becuna. Public tours of the active-duty ships will be available at their berths in Philadelphia and Camden County, New Jersey and will be free and open to the public.

October 14, 2025

Navy Medicine, Past, Present, and Future: a Roundtable Discussion
Location: Pennsylvania Hospital (800 Spruce St, Philadelphia, PA 19107)

From 8:30am - 11:30am learn about Navy Medicine’s long history and current importance in the historic Pennsylvania Hospital. More details to come.

Navy and Marine Corps Static Displays
Details to come.

U.S. Marine Corps Band and Silent Drill Platoon Performances
Details to come.

Ship Tours
Locations: Philadelphia and Camden County

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, families can explore an impressive lineup of historic, replica, and active-duty Navy ships, including the Cruiser Olympia, Battleship New Jersey, and submarine Becuna. Public tours of the active-duty ships will be available at their berths in Philadelphia and Camden County, New Jersey and will be free and open to the public.

October 15, 2025

Navy and Marine Corps Static Displays
Details to come.

U.S. Marine Corps Band and Silent Drill Platoon Performances
Details to come.

Ship Tours
Locations: Philadelphia and Camden County

From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Families can explore an impressive lineup of historic, replica, and active-duty Navy ships, including the Cruiser Olympia, Battleship New Jersey, and submarine Becuna. Public tours of the active-duty ships will be available at their berths in Philadelphia and Camden County, New Jersey and will be free and open to the public.

Closing Ceremonies
Locations: Philadelphia and Camden County

Help send off the Navy ships as they leave Philadelphia and Camden for their home ports. Free and open to the public.

October 25, 2025

Laurel Hill West Cemetery Tours
Location: 225 Belmont Ave. Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004

from 1 P.M. to 3 P.M. To celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the Navy and Marine Corps, Laurel Hill will offer two special tours of our cemeteries! This tour will take place at Laurel Hill West and highlight the most notable members of the Navy, Marine Corps, and an added bonus of members of the Army.

SPECIAL EVENTS FOR MARINE CORPS 250th CELEBRATION

From November 7 to 11, Homecoming 250, in partnership with The Tun Legacy Foundation, will present a vibrant lineup of free and ticketed events in honor of the 250th anniversary of the United StatesMarine 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:

November 7, 2025

Masonic Temple Library & Museum Tour
Location: 1 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Join guided, timed tours (4 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 5 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.)of the historic Masonic Temple to explore rarely seen archival items, including artifacts from the historic Tun and exhibits showcasing the deep-rooted connection between Pennsylvania Freemasonry and the U.S. Marine Corps. Ticket required.

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November 8, 2025

The Tun Lunch and Learn
Location: 1 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Beginning at 11 a.m., guests can enjoy lunch and a panel discussion with representatives of the six organizations with a heritage at the historic Tun–the United States Marines, Pennsylvania Freemasons, United States Navy, Society of St. George, St. Andrew’s Society, Friendly Sons & Daughters of St. Patrick. Ticket required.

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The Tun Legacy Tour
Location: 1 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

From 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., be part of the debut of The Tun Legacy Tour and see Philadelphia sites significant to the historicTun and the establishment of the Continental Marines. The tour will be a legacy of the 250th United States Marine Corps birthday celebration in Philadelphia, offered in 2026 as part of Philadelphia and Pennsylvania’s Semiquincentennial celebration, and as a regular offering once The Tun® opens. Ticket required.

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Welcome Dinner at the Independence Seaport Museum
Location: 211 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19106

From 5 to 8 p.m., enjoy waterfront dining and learn the compelling story of how the Marine Corps was founded on the banks of the Delaware River. Ticket required.

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November 9, 2025

Philadelphia Veterans Parade and Festival
Location: 21st Street & Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19130

From noon to 4 p.m., join fellow Marines and Veterans in marching through Center City during this festive tribute hosted by the City of Philadelphia. Free and open to the public. To march in the parade, sign up HERE.

Marine Corps 250th Celebration Dinner Cruise
Location: 401 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19106

From 4:30 to 8 p.m., celebrate aboard the Spirit of Philadelphia with a formal dinner cruise and keynote by Medal of Honor Recipient Colonel Harvey C. Barnum Jr. Ticket required.

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Midnight Champagne Birthday Breakfast
Location: 101 S. 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106

From 11 p.m. to 1 a.m., attendees of the Birthday Breakfast will don nightcaps at the Museum of the American Revolution and kick off the Marine Corps' 250th birthday at midnight. Ticket required.

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November 10, 2025

Ceremony at the Resting Place of the First Commandant
Location: 320 Arch Street, 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
Location: 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106

At 10:30 a.m., the public is invited to honor the 250th anniversary of the Marine Corps’ founding by gathering at Independence Hall for addresses by the civilian and uniformed leaders of the Marine Corps, the official Pennsylvania Marine Corps 250th Birthday cake cutting sponsored by the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, and more. Free and open to the public.

The Tun® Birthday Block Party
Location: 2nd Street between Market and Chestnut Streets, Philadelphia, PA 19106

From 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. the public is invited to join the Tun Legacy Foundation during its Birthday Block Party at the future site of the rebuilt Tun, featuring performances by Marine and musician Dave Bray USA, Marine and comedian Bryson Banks, and the American Bombshells. Free and open to the public.

100th Marine Corps Birthday Ball
Location: 200 S. Broad Street, 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.

EVENT DETAILS

Marine Corps 250th Birthday Ball at the Museum of the American Revolution
Location: 101 S. 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106

From 6 to 11 p.m., honor the Corps’ founding steps from the site of the historic Tun Tavern. Hosted by The Tun Legacy Foundation. Ticket required.

EVENT DETAILS Purchase Tickets

November 11, 2025

Veterans Day Ceremony aboard Battleship New Jersey
Location: 62 Battleship Place, Camden, NJ 08103

At 11 a.m., honor veterans aboard the Battleship New Jersey in a ceremony highlighting the Marine Corps' values of honor, courage, and commitment. Free and open to the public.

Event times, locations, and details are subject to change.

Exhibits on Navy & Marine Corps History at Participating Museums

We have many more events in the works for you and when they are ready to be released to the public, we will share them here or you can stay up to date on the latest information and ticket sales by signing up for our newsletter here.

Please note, the schedule of events, key speakers, and participants’ information are subject to change.