The year 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding in 1776 – The United States of America’s Semiquincentennial.

For this milestone occasion, a fleet of the world’s most magnificent international tall ships and military ships, in an epic peacetime gathering, will sail into the port of Virginia as part of Sail250® America.

America’s largest, longest-running, free maritime festival, the iconic Norfolk Harborfest® enters its 50th year in 2026. For three memorable days along the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront June 19-23, Harborfest celebrates all of the elements that make Norfolk & Hampton Roads a historic maritime & Naval community. On both land and sea, thrilling activities and live music take center stage at Harborfest, including the annual Parade of Sail featuring international tall ships, one of the largest fireworks shows on the East Coast, interactive family games and activities, Navy exhibits and demonstrations, artisan foods and beverages, national and regional live entertainment, and much more. Mark your calendars for Friday-Sunday, June 19-23, 2026 for one of Hampton Roads’ biggest summertime events!