Fleet Week NYC 2025: A Grand Maritime Tribute to America’s Sea Services
Each spring, New York City throws open its harbors and hearts to welcome the mighty ships and brave service members of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Fleet Week NYC 2025, taking place from May 21 to May 27, will once again transform the Big Apple into a dynamic stage for military honor, public celebration, and seafaring spectacle.
Now in its 37th year, Fleet Week is more than just a parade of ships—it’s a living tribute to American maritime strength, discipline, and heritage. With ship tours, air shows, musical performances, and patriotic ceremonies, Fleet Week offers New Yorkers and visitors a chance to meet the men and women who protect our shores while exploring some of the most advanced vessels in the world.
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The Parade of Ships: A Spectacle on the Hudson
The festivities begin with the breathtaking Parade of Ships on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, as vessels from the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, and international allies cruise up the Hudson River in a choreographed maritime procession.
The parade typically starts around 7:45 AM, with ships sailing past iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and One World Trade Center, offering a stirring visual reminder of America’s naval legacy. Prime viewing locations include:
- Battery Park
- Hudson River Park
- The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
- Riverside Park South
Ship Tours: Step Aboard Naval Legends
Throughout the week, visitors can tour active-duty military ships docked at several locations across the city. These ships offer a rare opportunity to step into the world of modern naval operations and meet the sailors and marines who serve aboard.
🛳️ Participating Dock Locations (Tentative):
- Pier 88 & Pier 90, Manhattan
Ships: USS New York (LPD-21), USCGC Calhoun, Canadian naval vessels
Dates: May 22–24 | Time: 9 AM – 4 PM - Intrepid Museum Pier 86, Manhattan
Special patrol vessels and training boats from the U.S. Naval Academy
Dates: May 22–23 | Time: 10 AM – 4 PM - Homeport Pier, Staten Island
Ships: USS Oak Hill (LSD-51), USCGC Sturgeon Bay
Dates: May 22–26 | Time: 9 AM – 4 PM
Pro Tip: Arrive early. Security lines and wait times can be long, especially on weekends.
Military Demonstrations and Ceremonies
Fleet Week features high-octane military demonstrations designed to inspire and educate. Events will include:
- Aviation and Search & Rescue Demonstrations
Locations: Intrepid Pier and Eisenhower Park (Long Island)
Dates: May 24–25 - Marine Corps Martial Arts Demos
Times Square and various parks across NYC - Coast Guard K-9 Units & Dive Team Exhibits
- Memorial Day Ceremony
Date: May 27, 2025
Location: Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument, Riverside Park
Time: 10 AM
Music, Movies & Maritime Culture
Fleet Week NYC also brings a cultural wave to the city:
- Military Bands in Times Square
Live performances by Navy and Marine Corps bands each evening - “Top Gun: Maverick” Screening
May 24, 7 PM at the Intrepid Museum flight deck - Special Events at Liberty State Park (NJ) and SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, including rooftop flag displays and ship livestreams
Family-Friendly and Educational
Fleet Week isn’t just for military enthusiasts. Families, students, and tourists can enjoy:
- STEM & Naval History Exhibits
- Meet-the-Sailor Events
- Youth Programs and Sea Cadet Demonstrations
- Photo ops with sailors in uniform
📅 Fleet Week NYC 2025 Schedule Overview
| Date | Highlight Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| May 21 | Parade of Ships | Hudson River |
| May 22–24 | Ship Tours | Manhattan & Staten Island Piers |
| May 23 | Military Band Performances Begin | Times Square |
| May 24 | Top Gun: Maverick Screening | Intrepid Museum |
| May 25 | Long Island Aviation Day | Eisenhower Park |
| May 26 | Liberty State Park Showcase | Jersey City, NJ |
| May 27 | Memorial Day Commemoration | Riverside Park, Manhattan |
🎟️ Admission and Access
- General Public Access: Free
- Ship Tours: Free (subject to security clearance)
- Events at Intrepid Museum: Some events may require museum admission
- Discount Offers: Active military members and veterans may receive discounts at partnering institutions such as SUMMIT One Vanderbilt and the Intrepid Museum
Plan Your Fleet Week Experience
Whether you’re a local, a tourist, or a veteran, Fleet Week is your chance to see the Navy up close and honor those who serve.
