Norfolk will host more than 60 ships from 20 countries for Sail250 Virginia, a signature event of the nation’s 250th birthday celebration.
NORFOLK, Va. — 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, and part of the year-long festivities includes Sail250, a major international maritime and military event. One of the event’s stops will be Sail250 Virginia.
The festival, set for June 12-23, will bring more than 60 ships from about 30 countries to Hampton Roads, with Norfolk serving as the host city June 19-23. Additional events will take place in 11 affiliate harbor communities throughout the Chesapeake Bay region.
A highlight will be the June 19 Parade of Sail, a 26-nautical-mile procession beginning near Virginia Beach and ending along the downtown Norfolk and Portsmouth waterfronts. The event will include a flyover by the Blue Angels.
Four days of waterfront festivities in Norfolk will include ship tours, live entertainment, fireworks, educational exhibits, and Harborfest celebrations, all free and open to the public.
The event coincides with FLEETEX 250, bringing additional international naval vessels to the area.
Organizers estimate the festival could draw more than 3 million visitors and generate over $150 million in economic impact statewide.
Sail250 Virginia schedule:
- June 12-14, 2026: Tall ship visits in Alexandria, Hampton, Yorktown, Richmond, Onancock, and Smithfield
- June 15-July 1, 2026: Norfolk Navy Fleet Week and International Fleet Exercise 250 at Naval Station Norfolk
- June 18, 2026: Fleet rendezvous off Virginia Beach at the Lynnhaven Anchorage
- June 19, 2026: Parade of Sail into Norfolk, Hampton, Portsmouth, and Virginia Beach
- June 19-22, 2026: Tall ship tours and special events in Norfolk and affiliate harbor cities
- June 23, 2026: Fleet departure to Baltimore
More on the event can be found at Sail250Virginia.com.
