Fleet Week returns to New York City from May 21 to May 27 this year, bringing with it military pageantry, ship tours and public events meant to honor members of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard.

This year’s celebration coincides with the 250th anniversary of both the Navy and Marine Corps. Organizers say the theme is “Honoring the Past, Defending the Future: 250 Years of Sea Service Excellence.”

“This year’s Fleet Week New York is especially meaningful, as we commemorate our Navy’s 250 years of maritime excellence and unwavering commitment to freedom and global security,” Rear Adm. Carl Lahti, commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic, said in a statement.

“Our Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen have been on the front lines of freedom — demonstrating courage, commitment, and readiness — for two-and-a-half-centuries. We once again look forward to this 37-year-old tradition of connecting with the great state of New York and honoring the spirit of service that drives our nation forward,” Lahti added.

Below, you’ll find all you need to know about the longtime tradition.

A brief history of Fleet Week in New York

Fleet Week has been a New York City staple for several decades, taking place nearly every year since 1984, according to organizers.

The weeklong event has always been about giving the public a chance to meet members of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard.

Ships dock along the West Side, and sailors in white uniforms become a familiar sight around the five boroughs. The event typically kicks off with a dramatic parade of ships sailing into New York Harbor, followed by a week of ship tours, military demonstrations and community outreach.

For many New Yorkers, Fleet Week is about more than just the ships — it's a celebration of service, tradition and the city’s deep ties to the sea.

Parade of Ships to kick off the week

The annual Parade of Ships officially launches Fleet Week on Wednesday, May 21. Military vessels including the USS New York (LPD 21), the USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) and the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Calhoun will be sailing into New York Harbor and up the Hudson River.

Spectators can catch a view from Battery Park or anywhere along the west side up to the George Washington Bridge.

In years past, the procession has begun around 7:45 a.m. and wrapped up by 11 a.m.

Ship tours across the city

One of Fleet Week’s most popular attractions — ship tours — will take place Thursday, May 22 through Sunday, May 26. 

A full schedule of public tours — including locations, times and the ships visitors can board — is below:

  • Manhattan, Pier 88 South (Ship public tours on Friday and Saturday, May 23 to May 24, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
    • San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock, USS New York (LPD 21) from Norfolk, Virginia
  • Manhattan, Pier 90 North (Ship public tours on Friday and Saturday, May 23 to May 24, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
    •  Legend-class cutter USCGC Calhoun (WMSL-759) from Charleston, South Carolina
    • Harry DeWolf-class offshore patrol vessel HMCS Frédérick Rolette (AOPV 434) from Halifax, Canada
  • Manhattan, Intrepid Museum, Pier 86: (Ship public tours on Thursday and Friday, May 22 to May 23, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
    • Five U.S. Naval Academy YPs from Annapolis, Maryland
  • Homeport Pier, Staten Island (Ship public tours will be Thursday, May 22 to Monday, May 26, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
    • Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) from Norfolk, Virginia
    • Bay-class cutter USCGC Sturgeon Bay (WTGB 109) from Bayonne, New Jersey

Admission is free, but visitors will be required to go through airport-style security.

Organizers say it’s best to arrive early, as lines may close at least an hour before visiting hours end. Each tour lasts around 30 minutes.

Visitors over the age of 18 will be required to show a valid state or federal-issued photo ID. Bottles, water bottles and can or glass containers are among the items that will not be allowed on board.

For more information or frequently asked questions regarding tours, tap here.

Intrepid Museum to host events all weekend

The Intrepid Museum at Pier 86 will once again serve as a central hub for Fleet Week programming. 

Housed aboard the historic USS Intrepid, the museum’s exhibits feature the space shuttle Enterprise, the submarine Growler and a collection of military aircraft. Interactive displays and educational programs provide insight into the stories of service and innovation that have shaped the nation's history.

Highlights throughout Fleet Week include:

  • Friday, May 23: A free screening of “Top Gun” on the flight deck at 6 p.m. (first-come, first-served seating)
  • Saturday, May 24 to Monday, May 26: Interactive exhibits, military demonstrations, and live performances from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Monday, May 26: Activities, displays and workshops from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and a Memorial Day ceremony at 10 a.m.

Expect crowds and delays

With thousands expected to visit the piers and museums, city officials generally urge residents and visitors alike to plan ahead, and to opt for public transit when possible.