2026 marks the 250th anniversary of our nation’s birth in 1776 – The United States of America’s Semiquincentennial. International tall ships and military vessels will sail into the port of Virginia as part of Sail2025® America. More than 4,000 officers, cadets and crews of 55+ ships from 20 nations will engage in events along Virginia’s waterfront. The event will be held in the tradition of the past five iconic OpSail events in the Norfolk/Hampton Roads/Chesapeake Bay region since 1976, and the fleet will once again bring extraordinary experiences and opportunities to every corner of our communities.
Above: images from the 2026 Sail250® Virginia event courtesy VisitNorfolk team members.
Find out where to watch the Parade of Sail at Harbforfest/Sail250®. Friday’s parade will cover portions of the Chesapeake Bay and Elizabeth River from Virginia Beach (7 a.m.) to Norfolk’s Waterside (noon).
There’s no better place to explore America’s history than Norfolk, Virginia. Walk cobblestone streets, see where American military might resides and dig into the rich history of the region on this five-day Sail 205® Virginia Itinerary.
As one of the main events recognized by the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission, Sail250® Virginia will see more than 10,000 officers, cadets and crew docking at Waterside, Town Point Park and points beyond. The event will kick off with a massive Parade of Sail on Friday, June 19, 2026, featuring dozens of international vessels along with the usual favorites.
Experience the majesty of history coming alive in June 2026 as Norfolk celebrates Sail250® Virginia. Book now and save on packages that let you experience this once-in-a-lifetime event commemorating America’s semiquincentennial.
The event is packed with educational opportunities, entertainment, demonstrations and much more to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, coastal Virginia style.
See all the ways to get to Norfolk, Virginia – including boat, plane, train and car – and discover the best methods of getting around town once you’re here.
The city offers options for every preference and budget, from downtown high-rise hotels to boutique lodging and everything in between. No matter where you stay, expect a comfortable visit packed with Virginia hospitality.
Norfolk’s festival season will have a distinctly patriotic theme this year, with the Virginia International Tattoo and others paying tribute to the nation’s enduring legacy.
Arriving on a motorcoach or shuttle bus for a cruise out of Norfolk’s port? Coaches will need a designated time for both embarkation and debarkation. Coordinating this in advance with the Cruise Norfolk is essential to ensure a smooth process. Contact us now for details.
On Saturday and Sunday, June 20-21, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the public will have the opportunity to meet sailors from around the world, step aboard and explore an extraordinary lineup of U.S. Navy and international military ships docked at the world’s largest naval installation.
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