Seattle Fleet Week 2025 Begins Tuesday

Seattle Fleet Week Returns with Exciting Events and Military Displays

Seattle's annual Fleet Week is back, offering a week of free events that celebrate military service and highlight the city’s deep connection to maritime history. The festivities kick off on Tuesday, July 29, and continue through the Seafair Weekend Festival, which has become a beloved tradition since its inception in 1950.

Fleet Week brings together military vessels, interactive exhibits, and opportunities for the public to engage with sailors and guardsmen. The event serves as a tribute to those who serve our country and offers a unique glimpse into the operations and history of the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, and other military branches.

Parade of Ships and Ship Tours

The main event of Fleet Week begins with the Parade of Ships, where vessels from the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Navy, and the Seattle Fire Department will parade around Elliott Bay. The parade is scheduled to take place around 1 p.m. on Tuesday, July 29, followed by a Coast Guard search and rescue demonstration.

After the parade, visitors can explore free ship tours at Pier 46 on the Seattle Waterfront. These tours offer an opportunity to tour vessels from the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Coast Guard, with maritime exhibits and interactive displays showcasing the region’s rich nautical heritage.

The USCG Base Seattle will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, July 31, through Sunday, August 3. However, there are specific rules in place for those participating in the ship tours. All attendees must have a government-issued REAL ID. Additionally, certain items are prohibited on board, including:

• Food or drinks (including ice chests and coolers)
• Pets (except service dogs for the disabled)
• Glass containers
• Guns, knives, clubs, or weapons of any kind
• Mace, pepper spray, spray cans, or other defensive sprays
• Firearms
• Fireworks or explosives
• Flammable liquids
• Illegal drugs or paraphernalia
• Electronic cigarettes or vapes
• Camera tripods and cameras with lenses greater than 100 mm
• Backpacks, oversized camera bags, or large purses
• Skateboards, bicycles, or hover boards
• Gang-related clothing
• Unmanned aerial systems (drones)
• Strollers

Displays, Exhibits, and More

At Pier 46, visitors can explore a variety of displays and exhibits featuring the U.S. Navy, Applied Physics Laboratory, Navy League, Puget Sound Navy Museum, and the U.S. Marine Corps. Highlights include:

• An artillery static display
• A military working dog demonstration
• A pugil stick simulator
• A Humvee display
• Opportunities to speak directly with sailors

These exhibits provide a hands-on experience for attendees to learn more about the military’s role in the region and beyond.

Special Events and Performances

Fleet Week also includes special events such as Fleet Week Night at the Seattle Mariners, where sailors from the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Navy will be present at the game against the Texas Rangers on Sunday.

Another highlight is the Navy Band Northwest performance on Friday, August 1, during the Seafair Weekend Festival. The band will perform on the main stage from 2:45 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., offering a musical celebration of military pride and community spirit.

Experience the Tradition

Fleet Week is not just an event—it's a tradition that honors the sacrifices and contributions of military personnel. Whether you're interested in exploring military vessels, learning about maritime history, or enjoying live performances, there's something for everyone. This year’s event promises to be another unforgettable celebration of service and community.