What to KnowFleet Week LA 2026May 19-25; the festival and ship tours will take place May 22-25LA Waterfront and other locationsShip tours, concerts, and more are on the scheduleThe annual celebration “… honors the men and women of the United States Sea Services while fostering meaningful connections between service members and the communities they serve”<\/p>\n
Stirring songs, spirited speeches, history-rich tours that inform, and community moments that move: LA Fleet Week<\/a> is always full of such august happenings, events, and occasions, and the multi-day festivity is ready to add something special to its 2026 spectacular: The colorful kick-off to Southern California’s America250 celebrations.<\/p>\n The annual weekend-big gathering “… honors the men and women of the United States Sea Services while fostering meaningful connections between service members and the communities they serve,” and the public is welcome to join tours, concerts, and more.<\/p>\n Set sail for the LA Waterfront from May 22 through 25 to join the jubilant extravaganza but do take a look at all of the offerings<\/a> before heading to the Port of Los Angeles. <\/p>\n Free ship tours are longtime favorites of those in attendance, as are a chance to peruse military exhibits and take in a concert or two.<\/p>\n And the aircraft flyovers are also a central and showstopping part of the long and meaning-filled weekend.<\/p>\n Where, though, should you start your LA Fleet Week adventure? The daily Expo is the choice of many visitors, and with good reason: Over 90 exhibits will be on view, and there are activities created for kids, too.<\/p>\n If touring a ship is your main goal, be sure to peruse this informative page<\/a> which details the digital queues and other important guidance. The USS ESSEX, the USCGC Halibut, and the US Coast Guard Fast Response Cutter Terrell Horne (WPC-1131) are in the 2026 spotlight.<\/p>\n A bevy of showdowns including “Galley Wars” is also on the schedule, as well as the eye-catching Festival of Sail. Pickleball, a hot dog eating competition, a FIFA mini soccer tournament, and other exciting events are also on the roster.<\/p>\n Getting around the port is made easier, too, by the complimentary trolley service.<\/p>\n One draw for many visitors is the chance to step aboard the Battleship IOWA; spots are limited, so do read up<\/a> on trying for the opportunity to visit the historic vessel.<\/p>\n And if you’re attending as a way to be a part of one of our region’s early America250 events? The milestone will be at the heart of the weekend. Fleet Week LA’s “… programming will highlight themes of freedom, service, innovation, and resilience, connecting the legacy of the nation’s founding to the modern-day contributions of the U.S. Armed Forces and the diverse communities of Los Angeles.”<\/p>\n