PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Philadelphia region is preparing to welcome thousands of visitors from across the nation as it hosts the official national celebration of the 250th anniversaries of the United States Navy and Marine Corps. Designated by both services as their official commemoration, the Navy & Marine Corps 250th Celebration will take place October 9–16, with additional events planned for November 7–11, in what organizers describe as the Semiquincentennial’s largest tribute to America’s maritime forces.
Hosted by Homecoming 250 Navy Marine Corps (Homecoming 250®), the historic event will feature free public activities across Philadelphia, Camden County, and the Delaware River waterfront, including ship tours, flyovers, concerts, and parades. The celebration aims to honor the courage and service of generations of sailors and Marines while showcasing the region’s deep naval heritage.
“We are just about to bring this extraordinary celebration to life, and it continues to grow into something truly remarkable,” said George Leone, President of Homecoming 250. “With incredible talent and military resources joining us, the Navy & Marine Corps 250th is shaping up to be an unforgettable tribute, honoring the courage, dedication, and service of our maritime forces.”
Among the many highlights, the “Victory at Sea” concert at Independence Mall will feature Patti LaBelle, the U.S. Navy Band, the U.S. Marine Corps Drum and Bugle Corps, and special guests including Justin Guarini and Rhonda Vincent & The Rage. Actor, comedian, and Marine veteran Rob Riggle will serve as host. The event will culminate with fireworks above Philadelphia’s historic core.
Other signature events include:
- Parade of Ships (Oct. 9): A flotilla of Navy and Coast Guard vessels, including the USS Arlington, USS Lassen, USS Billings, and USS Cooperstown, will sail up the Delaware River, kicking off the celebration with a Blessing of the Fleet ceremony.
- All Veterans Reunion Picnic (Oct. 12): Hosted at Independence Mall, featuring celebrity chef and Royal Navy veteran Robert Irvine, who will judge culinary competitions honoring service members.
- Navy & Marine Corps 250th Parade (Oct. 13): A patriotic procession of more than 7,000 participants, including NASCAR driver Jesse Iwuji, marching bands, and midshipmen from the U.S. Naval Academy, culminating at Independence Mall.
- Naval Expeditionary Demonstration (Oct. 12): A live-action display on the Delaware River featuring flyovers, coordinated water and air maneuvers, and live narration by Navy and Coast Guard personnel.
Complementing the weeklong festivities are numerous exhibitions at regional museums, including the Independence Seaport Museum, Battleship New Jersey, and the National Museum of the U.S. Navy, each spotlighting the history, innovation, and legacy of America’s maritime forces.
The celebration will continue in November with events honoring the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary, including a ceremony at the resting place of the Corps’ first commandant, Samuel Nicholas, and the 100th Marine Corps Birthday Ball at the Bellevue Hotel—the same ballroom that hosted the inaugural celebration a century ago.
Full event details and registration for select programs are available at Homecoming250.org.
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