As the ships depart Virginia’s Norfolk Naval Base–and make their way to New York Harbor–we enthusiastically (and patriotically) anticipate the arrival of Fleet Week New York, to be held in and around the five boroughs from May 21 through May 27 (don’t miss some early Fleet Week events May 19-20, too). Now in its 26th year, Fleet Week is NYC’s time-honored celebration of the sea services (U.S. Navy, U.S. Marines, and U.S. Coast Guard), and gives the unique opportunity for our citizens to meet sailors, marines, coast guardsmen, and learn about maritime military.
With an estimated 1,500 military personnel to participate this year, the commemoration officially begins with the Parade of Ships on May 21. We honor and host our military guests–leading up and through Memorial Day Weekend– with many interesting events and activities. Patriotic baseball fans can head out to Citi Field to watch the NY Mets play the LA Dodgers (May 20 and 21, 7:10pm), where retired service members will be honored for heroism in the “Veteran of the Game” program. The week-long celebration gives civilians–local or visiting–the rare chance to tour an actual military ship. Plus patriotic performances by the Navy Band, and many festive Memorial Day parades throughout the city and the tri-state. Get ready to set sail. Fleet Week salutes the honor and valor of our sea services–a very meaningful way to commemorate Memorial Day with the family.
For up-to-date information on ship locations, hours, visitation information, and a full schedule of events, visit fleetweeknewyork.com.
