As the Nation celebrates its 250th anniversary in 2026, Navy Weeks will embark on a celebratory “Road Trip to 250,” serving as symbolic stops across the United States to highlight the Navy’s history, heritage, and continued commitment to defending freedom and supporting American communities.

“We’re excited to bring Navy Week to Burlington for the first time and celebrate the history of our nation’s 14th state,” said Cmdr. Julie Holland, director of the Navy Office of Community Outreach. “Vermont has a proud naval legacy, and this event offers an outstanding opportunity to honor that history while strengthening the connection between our Sailors and the communities of the Lake Champlain Region.”

Navy Week events will feature Sailors from commands across the fleet, Navy bands, STEM demonstrations, and community service projects. The program aims to provide residents with a firsthand look at the Navy’s mission and the men and women who serve our nation around the world.

The 2026 event will build on these existing relationships, showcasing a lineup of performances, demonstrations, and community engagements from the following:

• Naval History and Heritage Command: Explore Vermont’s proud naval legacy and the contributions of generations of Vermonters who have served across the fleet, through interactive exhibits and educational displays.
• Navy Band Northeast: Enjoy live musical performances and masterclasses from Navy musicians as they appear at venues throughout Burlington and during special events at the Champlain Valley Fair.
• Navy STEM: Experience hands-on demonstrations displaying STEM capabilities, giving residents a close look at the technology and expertise behind today’s Navy.
• Namesake Sailors: Meet Sailors and Civilian Mariners serving aboard the Military Sealift Command’s expeditionary fast transport USNS Burlington (T-EPF 10), and Sailors serving aboard the fast-attack submarine USS Montpelier (SSN 765) as they connect with the communities that share their vessels’ names.
• Sailors from Across the Fleet: Engage with Sailors from commands around the world, including “hometown heroes” from Vermont who will return to represent their Navy and share their stories with the Burlington community.

Navy Weeks bring the Navy to regions without a major naval presence, fostering connections and showcasing how the Navy’s mission ensures security, prosperity and freedom for our nation. The Navy Week program has visited more than 100 U.S. markets since the program’s inception in 2005.

For more details on Burlington Navy Week, visit https://outreach.navy.mil/navy-weeks/ or contact Lt. Cmdr. John Stevens at john.j.stevens4.mil@us.navy.mil or (901) 874-5810. Follow Navy Outreach on social media @NavyOutreach on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn and connect using #NavyWeek.