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Thursday, October 9, 2025
✭ Parade of Ships and Watch Parties ✭
Location: Delaware Riverfront in DE, NJ, PA
Time: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Witness an unprecedented Parade of Ships up the Delaware River. The USS Arlington, USS Lassen, USS Cooperstown, USS Billings, and more and more will sail to Philadelphia and Camden County. There will also be a flyover by Navy and Marine Corps aircraft. Click the event details link for a list of all watch party locations.
✭ Homecoming 250 Opening Ceremony ✭
Location: Mustin Field, Admiral Peary Way, Navy Yard, Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
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 of Ships, welcoming remarks, music, and the blessing of the fleet. Invitation required, but the public can hear the proceedings from the adjacent Watch Party.
✭ Innovation Pavilion - Small Business Day ✭
Location: Cherry Street Pier, 121 N Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: Noon - 4 p.m.
The public is invited to visit the Innovation Pavilion and explore breakthrough technologies developed for the Navy and Marine Corps by leading innovators in maritime, defense, and manufacturing, which will include hands-on demonstrations and programming designed to inspire the next generation. Free and open to the public on October 9.
✭ Touring of the Historic Ships ✭
Locations: Penn’s Landing, Philadelphia, PA; Camden Waterfront, NJ
Duration: October 9-16
Time: Times vary, see event details for more information
Throughout the October 9-16 Celebration, visit the magnificent historical ships welcoming the active-duty ships to the Delaware River in an unprecedented display of Navy history including ships important to the Marine Corps. Tour historic ships from the American Revolution to today, including:
Battleship New Jersey, the most decorated Navy ship afloat and the only battleship that fought in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, as well as the Cold War, which supported the Marines from the 1944 to Beirut. Tour her from 8am to 6pm at 100 Clinton St. Camden.
Cruiser Olympia, the most famous ship from the Spanish-American War, which served in World War I and whose Marines safeguarded the Unknown Soldier from France to Arlington National Cemetery. Tour her from 10am-4:30pm at Penn’s Landing, Philadelphia.
Submarine Becuna, which served in World War II and the Cold War. Tour her from 10am-4:30pm at Penn’s Landing, Philadelphia.
Washington’s Crossing Boat, a replica of the Durham boats that carried Washington to victory at Trenton, and took the Marines to their first fight at Princeton. Tour her near the Battleship New Jersey, 100 Clinton St., Camden. Free and open to the public.
Tickets are required for the Battleship, Cruiser, and Submarine. See event details page to purchase tickets.
Dedication of the USS Enterprise Name Plate
Location: Battleship New Jersey Pier, 100 Clinton St., Camden, NJ (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 3 p.m.
See the unveiling of 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 starting October 9 next to the most decorated Navy ship afloat, the Battleship New Jersey. Free and open to the public.
WHYY Preview of Ken Burns' The American Revolution at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion
Location: Freedom Mortgage Pavilion, 1 Harbour Blvd., Camden, NJ
Time: 7 p.m. (Click here for Google Map)
In partnership with WHYY, Homecoming 250 invites the public to enjoy an exclusive preview screening of highlights from acclaimed filmmaker Ken Burns' “The American Revolution” documentary series . Following the screening, the audience will enjoy a rare and intimate conversation with Ken Burns conducted live by WHYY's Terry Gross.
Free with a suggested donation. For free tickets, use promo code: HOME250COMP.
Philadelphia Ballet Salute to Navy & Marine Corps 250th
Location: Academy of Music, 240 S Broad St., Philadelphia, PA
Time: 7:30 p.m.
The Philadelphia Ballet’s Opening Night honors the 250th Anniversary of the Navy and Marine Corps by performing a new arrangement of America’s National March, “The Stars and Stripes Forever”, which John Philip Sousa premiered at the Academy of Music.
Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides Walking Tours of Navy and Marine Corps History
Location: Multiple starting locations, Philadelphia, PA
Duration: Now-November
The Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides is working with Homecoming 250® to provide official tours. 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. Book your tour.
Ongoing events include Museum Exhibits, Walking Tours, and Aviation Flyovers and Events.
Friday, October 10, 2025
USN/USMC Rocky Steps Run
Location: Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 8 a.m.
Join Sailors and Marines as they race to the storied steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. For more event details and to pre-register for the run, visit. This run is free and open to the public
Camden City Hall Corps Flag Raising Ceremony
Location: City Hall, 520 Market St., Camden, NJ (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 10 a.m.
The Mayor of Camden will preside over the raising of the Navy and Marine Corps flags at Camden City Hall, with representatives of the Navy and Marine Corps present
Wreath Laying for Tench Francis, founder Navy Supply Corps
Location: Christ Church Burial Grounds, 40 N 5th St., Philadelphia, PA
Time: 10:30 a.m.
Members and former members of the Navy Supply Corps will lay a wreath at the grave of the founder of the Naval Supply Corps at the Christ Church Burial Ground.
✭ Touring of the Visiting Navy Ships ✭
Locations: Philadelphia and Camden County, NJ
Duration: October 10-15, 2025
Time: Times Vary (See event details)
Starting on October 10, the public can tour the eight Navy vessels 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on October 10-14 -- please arrive by 3:30 p.m. to secure your spot. Ships will be open 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on October 15.
IMPORANT UPDATE: Ship tours for the USS Billings and USS Cooperstown will be closed on Sunday, 10/12/25 due to the weather. Please check back to this page for updates.
On October 15, ships will be open for tours 10 - 1 p.m. Please arrive by 12:30 p.m. to secure your spot. Tours will be at their berths in Philadelphia and Camden County, and will be free to the public. The ships and their berths are:
USS Arlington amphibious ship, Pier 4, The Navy Yard, Philadelphia, PA
USS Lassen guided missile destroyer, Gloucester Marine Terminal, Gloucester City, Camden County, NJ
USS Cooperstown littoral combat ship, Penn's Landing, Philadelphia
USS Billings littoral combat ship, next to the Battleship New Jersey, Camden, NJ
✭ Innovation Pavilion - Supplier Development Day ✭
Location: 121 N Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 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.
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 (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 8:45 a.m. - 5:15 p.m.
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. 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.
Anchored in Legacy: The U.S. Navy at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard
Location: Chapel of the Four Chaplains, 1201 Constitution Ave, Navy Yard, Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Organized by former Navy Yard employees, this roundtable discussion will examine the legacy, closure, and redevelopment of the Philadelphia Navy Yard from the 1980s through today. Panelists will include former employees, area politicians, and current tenants. Free and open to the public.
Philadelphia Orchestra Salute to Navy & Marine Corps 250th
Location: Kimmel Center, 300 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA
Time: 2 p.m.
The Philadelphia Orchestra, celebrating its 125th Anniversary, commemorates the 250th Anniversary of the Navy & Marine Corps by playing Ravel’s “A Boat on the Ocean.” Tickets required.
Army-Navy Cup at Subaru Park XIV Presented by Leidos
Location: Subaru Park, 1 Stadium Drive, Chester, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: Women's match starts at 4 p.m. Men's match starts at 7 p.m.
The storied soccer rivalry between the Army’s West Point and the U.S. Naval Academy returns to the home of the Philadelphia Union for the 14th annual Army-Navy Cup. For the first time, the annual rivalry will include both men’s and women’s soccer matches in a marquee doubleheader featuring a flyover and parachute jump. One ticket grants access to both matches.
USN Dive Tank and USN/UMSC Static Displays
Duration: October 11 - October 15
Time: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Interact with Navy divers and see Navy and Marine Corps equipment and other displays. Details to be announced.
Navy Band Concert at Philadelphia Museum of Art
Location: Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia PA
Time: 7:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
The US Navy Band will perform a concert on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Ongoing events include Museum Exhibits, Walking Tours, Visiting & Historic Navy and Coast Guard Ship Tours, Static Displays, and Aviation Flyovers.
Saturday, October 11, 2025
U.S. Navy and Marine Corps 2.50-mile Run
Location: The Navy Yard, Philadelphia, PA
Time: 7 a.m. registration, Run starts at 8 a.m.
Join Sailors and Marines as they run 2.50 miles for their 250th. Active duty and veterans can register for free. See registration details.
Beirut Memorial Ceremony
Location: Foglietta Plaza, Dock St., Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Honor the Marines who served and died during the 1980's U.S. peacekeeping mission in Lebanon.
✭ Aviation Flyovers over the Delaware Valley ✭
Location: Philadelphia, Camden, Bucks, Montgomery and Delaware Counties, PA, Burlington, Gloucester, and Salem Counties, NJ, and New Castle County, DE
Duration: October 11-13
Time: 10 a.m., Noon, and 2 p.m.
Marvel as Navy and Marine Corps aircraft fly from Camden up the Delaware River, to Valley Forge, down the Schuylkill and Delaware Rivers to Wilmington, and through South Jersey to the Philadelphia riverfront. More details to be announced.
Navy Yard Aviation Program, Marine Parade Ground
Location: Broad St. & Constitution Avenue, Navy Yard, Philadelphia, PA
Time: 10:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Marine aviation and a Marine band are on display where the Marines long called home.
✭ Innovation Pavilion - Workforce Development Day ✭
Location: 121 N. Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 9 a.m. - 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.
Navigating the Past: Histories of the US Navy and Marine Corps, 1775-2025 - Conference Part 2
Location: 100 Clinton St., Camden, NJ (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 10 a.m. - 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.
River Demonstration on the Delaware
Location: Penn’s Landing, Philadelphia (Click here for Google Map), and Camden Waterfront, NJ (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
See a Naval Expeditionary Demonstration on the Delaware River. The Expeditionary Demonstration will feature a low-altitude Navy and Marine Corps flyover, patrol boat maneuvers, helicopter displays, and a live maritime and air assault by a combined U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard assault force using live explosives and blank ammunition. The event will feature live video and audio narration on Penn’s Landing Quay near the Independence Seaport Museum.
✭ Navy 250 Gala at the National Constitution Center Presented by Exiger ✭
Location: 525 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 6 p.m.
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, hosted by ESPN national correspondent and Navy Veteran, Sal Paolantonio. The gala will be held at the National Constitution Center overlooking historic Independence Hall, where the Navy was born. Ticket required.
Navy-Temple Football Game at Lincoln Financial Field
Location: One Lincoln Financial Field Way, Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 4 p.m.
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. Enjoy the flyover, parachute jump, and all the pageantry. Ticket required.
Philadelphia Orchestra Salute to Navy & Marine Corps 250th
Location: Kimmel Center, 300 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA
Time: 8 p.m.
The Philadelphia Orchestra, celebrating its 125th Anniversary, commemorates the 250th Anniversary of the Navy & Marine Corps by playing Ravel’s “A Boat on the Ocean.” Tickets required.
Ongoing events include Museum Exhibits, Walking Tours, Visiting & Historic Navy and Coast Guard Ship Tours, Static Displays, and Aviation Flyovers.
Sunday, October 12, 2025
Memorial Mass and Commodore Barry Wreath Laying
Location: Old St. Mary’s Church, 252 South 4th St., Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 10 a.m.
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.
Military & Veteran Suicide Prevention Walk (CANCELED)
IMPORTANT UPDATE 10/11/25: Due to the forecasted storm, the Military & Veteran Suicide Prevention Walk has been canceled. We will provide updates as they occur.
✭ All Veterans Reunion Picnic ✭
IMPORTANT UPDATE (10/11/25): Due to the forecasted nor’easter and high winds expected across the Greater Philadelphia region, and out of an abundance of caution for our veterans, their families, and all participants, Homecoming 250 has made the decision to cancel the All Veterans Reunion Picnic, originally scheduled for Noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday, October 12. Veterans seeking assistance or resources are encouraged to visit the events details page for a list of Veteran Service Organizations that were scheduled to attend the picnic and can still provide valuable support and services.
Laurel Hill East Cemetery Tours
Location: 3822 Ridge Ave, Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 1 p.m. - 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 as an added bonus, members of the Army.
River Demonstration on the Delaware
Location: Penn’s Landing, Philadelphia (Click here for Google Map), and Camden Waterfront, NJ (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
See a Naval Expeditionary Demonstration on the Delaware River. The Expeditionary Demonstration will feature a low-altitude Navy and Marine Corps flyover, patrol boat maneuvers, helicopter displays, and a live maritime and air assault by a combined U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard assault force using live explosives and blank ammunition. The event will feature live video and audio narration on Penn’s Landing Quay near the Independence Seaport Museum.
✭ “Victory At Sea” Concert ✭
Location: Temple University’s Performing Arts Center, 1837 N Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
Time: 7 p.m.
IMPORTANT UPDATE (10/10/25): The star-studded, highly anticipated concert slated to take place Sunday, October 12, at Independence Mall is being relocated indoors. The concert, hosted by Rob Riggle and featuring performances by the iconic Patti Labelle, Justin Guarini, Rhonda Vincent, along with The U.S. Navy Band, The Commandant's Own Marine Drum & Bugle Corps, and others, has been moved due to the expected weather event. Due to the forecasted high winds and rain, event organizers have determined, for the safety of the performers and audience members, that the concert will take place at Temple University’s Performing Arts Center. The public is encouraged to enjoy the concert via livestream at 6abc.com or on C-SPAN.
Ongoing events include Museum Exhibits, Walking Tours, Visiting & Historic Navy and Coast Guard Ship Tours, Static Displays, and Aviation Flyovers.
Monday, October 13, 2025
Flag Raising Ceremony at Philadelphia City Hall
Location: 1400 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 8 a.m.
Philadelphia commemorates its cohosting of the Navy & Marine Corps 250th by raising the flag of the Navy on its 250th Birthday.
Thanksgiving and Remembrance Ceremony at Christ Church
Location: 20 North American Street, Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.
The public is invited to honor and remember those Sailors and Marines 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.
✭ Navy & Marine Corps 250 Parade Presented by Walmart ✭
Location: John F Kennedy Boulevard & 20th Street to 520 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
THE PARADE IS STILL ON!!
The public is invited to enjoy this two-hour spectacle, with floats, balloons, and marching bands from schools and the Navy and Marine Corps. Additionally, the parade will honor young people on the path to military service, including Naval Academy midshipmen, students from ROTC, NROTC, and JROTC programs, and Sea Cadets. The parade will step off at JFK Boulevard and 20th Street and conclude at Independence Mall with a Leap Frogs parachute jump. Free and open to the public.
Official Opening of the U.S. Navy Museum’s Exhibit “Navy 250: The Legacy”
Location: 100 Independence Mall, Philadelphia, PA
Time: 1:30 p.m.
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.
✭ Navy 250th Commemoration ✭
IMPORTANT UPDATE (10/12/23): The Navy 250th Commemoration will now be held at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, Marian Anderson Hall, at 300 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA, and will begin at 2:15 P.M.
Time: 2:15 p.m. - 3:20 p.m.
Witness the commemoration of the 250th Anniversary of the Navy’s founding with addresses by the Secretary of the Navy, the uniformed head of the Navy, and more, with The U.S Navy Band, the Navy Ceremonial Guard, and the Blue Angels. Free and open to the public.
✭ Flyover by the Blue Angels at Independence Mall ✭
IMPORTANT UPDATE: The scheduled flyover by the Blue Angels on Monday, October 13, is canceled due to weather. Please check back for updates. Separate flyovers will still occur in the Philadelphia area, weather permitting.
Visitors will witness a thrilling flyover by the Blue Angels in honor of the Navy’s 250th Anniversary. Free and open to the public.
U.S. Marine Corps Band and Silent Drill Platoon Performances
Duration: October 13 - October 15
Details to come. Free and open to the public.
Ongoing events include Museum Exhibits, Walking Tours, Visiting & Historic Navy and Coast Guard Ship Tours, Static Displays, and Aviation Flyovers.
Tuesday, October 14, 2025
Navy Medicine on Station Around the Globe for 250 Years
Location: Zubrow Auditorium, Pennsylvania Hospital, 800 Spruce St., Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Join us a Navy Medicine Day to underscore the historical ties between Navy Medicine and the birthplace of our Navy. This will be an immersive experience designed to engage, educate, and inspire attendees, while offering a look at Navy Medicine's enduring impact. We will also welcome Navy Medicine personnel to share their personal stories and insights. Please RSVP HERE.
Ongoing events include Museum Exhibits, Walking Tours, Visiting & Historic Navy and Coast Guard Ship Tours, Static Displays, and Aviation Flyovers.
Wednesday, October 15, 2025
✭ Homecoming 250 Fireworks Over the Delaware ✭
Location: Delaware River
Time: 6 p.m. - 7:20 p.m.
The public is invited to cap off the Navy & Marine Corps 250th Celebration with an unforgettable evening of music, history, and fireworks over the Delaware River on Wednesday, October 15. Originally scheduled for October 13, the fireworks spectacular has been rescheduled due to inclement weather. On October 15, festivities begin at 5 p.m., featuring live musical performances on both sides of the Delaware River, where the Navy and Marines launched their earliest ships and missions. Fireworks will be preceded by a military jet flyover. At 7 p.m., the sky will light up with fireworks illuminating Navy, Coast Guard, and historic ships along the river. The display will be complemented by lighted vessels, cannon salutes, and synchronized music. Prime viewing locations include Penn’s Landing in Philadelphia and the Camden Waterfront in New Jersey.
Musical Performances Include:
Battleship New Jersey (100 Clinton St., Camden, NJ)
4:45 to 5:45 p.m.: 2nd Division Marine Band
6 to 7 p.m.: Quantico Marine Band
- AND -
Penn's Landing (301 S Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA)
6 to 7 p.m. - Country Current, the Navy's premier country-bluegrass ensemble
Ongoing events include Museum Exhibits, Walking Tours, Visiting & Historic Navy and Coast Guard Ship Tours, Static Displays, and Aviation Flyovers.
Thursday, October 16, 2025
✭ Ship Departures ✭
Location: Penn’s Landing and Navy Yard, Philadelphia, PA, Gloucester City, NJ, and at the Battleship New Jersey, Camden, NJ
Come to the waterfront and help send off the Navy ships as they leave Philadelphia and Camden County for their home ports. Free and open to the public.
USS ARLINGTON: 10:20 a.m. departure
USS BILLINGS: 11 a.m. departure
USS LASSEN: 9 a.m. departure
10/17/25 DEPARTURES
USS COOPERSTOWN: 9 a.m. departure
See Events Page for Docking Locations
Flyer's Veterans Appreciation Night
Location: Xfinity Mobile Arena, 3601 Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
The Philadelphia Flyers are honored to join the Navy 250th Celebration as it comes to Philadelphia, recognizing the service of Navy members, veterans, and their families. Join us on Thursday, October 16th at 7 p.m. as the Flyers take on the Winnipeg Jets. Each ticket purchased through this offer includes a commemorative Navy 250th coin and special in-game moments you won’t want to miss.
October 25, 2025
Laurel Hill West Cemetery Tours
Location: 225 Belmont Ave., Bala Cynwyd, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 1 p.m. -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 as an added bonus, 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 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:
Friday, November 7, 2025
Masonic Temple Library & Museum Tour
Location: 1 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Times: 4, 4:30, 5, and 5:30 p.m.
Join guided, timed tours 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.
Saturday, November 8, 2025
The Tun Lunch and Learn
Location: 1 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 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.
The Tun Legacy Tour
Location: 1 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Be part of the debut of The Tun Legacy Tour and see Philadelphia sites significant to the historic Tun 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.
Welcome Dinner at the Independence Seaport Museum
Location: 211 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 5 p.m. - 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.
Sunday, November 9, 2025
Philadelphia Veterans Parade and Festival
Location: 21st Street & Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 4 p.m.
Join fellow Marines and Veterans in marching through Center City during this festive tribute hosted by the City of Philadelphia, ending at the Veterans Festival. 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
Time: 4:30 p.m. - 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.
Midnight Champagne Birthday Breakfast
Location: 101 S. 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106 (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 11 p.m. - 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.
Monday, November 10, 2025
Ceremony at the Resting Place of the First Commandant
Location: 320 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 9 a.m.
At the historic Arch Street Meeting House grounds, we will 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 Mall ✭
Location: 5th & Chestnut Streets, Philadelphia, PA
Time: 10 a.m. seating, program starts at 10:15 a.m.
The public is invited to honor the 250th anniversary of the Marine Corps’ founding by gathering in front of Independence Hall for addresses by 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.
250th Marine Corps Birthday Lunch
Location: Union League, 140 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
Time: 11:30 a.m.
The Union League of Philadelphia and its Armed Services Council invites members and the public to join in celebrating 250 years of honor, courage, and commitment at this landmark Marine Corps Birthday event. The keynote speaker will be Major General James Livingston, USMC (Ret.), Medal of Honor recipient and Vietnam War hero. Ticket required. Contact crawfordt@unionleague.org for tickets.
The Tun® Birthday Block Party
Location: 2nd Street between Market and Chestnut Streets, Philadelphia, PA
Time: 11:30 a.m. - 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 (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 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 same ballroom where Commandant Lejeune hosted the inaugural celebration a century ago - the Grand Ballroom of the historic Bellevue Hotel. Many more will get to view the happenings on screens at the Marine Corps Overflow Ball of the top floor of the Bellevue. Ticket required.
EVENT DETAILS Purchase Tickets
Marine Corps 250th Birthday Ball at the Museum of the American Revolution
Location: 101 S. 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 6 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Honor the Corps’ founding steps from the site of the historic tavern called the Tun. 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 (Click here for Google Map)
Time: 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
August 2025 – January 2026 Participating Museum Exhibitions
- American Swedish Historical Museum (now-1/4/26)
- Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial (ongoing)
- Independence Seaport Museum (ongoing; 10am-5pm)
- Library Company of Philadelphia (10/9/25-3/26)
- American Helicopter Museum (now-11/9/25)
- Andalusia Historic House, Gardens and Arboretum (now-11/14/25)
- Historical Society of Pennsylvania (10/8/25-1/9/26)
- African American Museum of Philadelphia (9/13/25-3/26)
- Pennsylvania Hospital
VISIT OUR MUSEUMS EXHIBIT PAGE FOR MORE DETAILS.
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.