Join a Time-Honored Naval Tradition
Blessing of the Fleet
WHAT IS BLESSING OF THE FLEET?
The centuries-old Blessing of the Fleet is a maritime tradition shared by sailors, fishermen, merchant mariners, and navies around the world. The ceremony offers a prayer for the safety of crews and their ships, traditionally given by a clergyman at the water’s edge.
Each spring, the United States Navy Memorial hosts its annual Blessing of the Fleet ceremony in Washington, D.C., but ANYONE can join us to honor our nation’s maritime heritage and the men and women who have shaped our Sea Services.
How to Participate In This Time-Honored Naval Tradition
Make a gift of $20 or more by March 31, and your name will be included in our Blessing of the Fleet program.
Give $50 or more, and your name will also be featured during the event.
As a thank-you, you’ll receive a copy of this year’s Blessing of the Fleet Program as a keepsake to commemorate your first Blessing of the Fleet.
Watch the ceremony LIVE
Saturday April 11, 2026 at 1:00 PM Eastern
Online via livestream.
Or In-Person at the United States Navy Memorial Visitor Center, located on 701 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, D.C.
The ceremony’s main highlight is when the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard sailors pour water from the Seven Seas and Great Lakes into the fountains, symbolically ushering in the spring season
Afterward, attendees are invited inside the Navy Memorial Visitor Center for a light reception featuring Navy Bean Soup from the White House Mess.
Honor their service. celebrate their legacy. join our mission.
With over 300 events and 40 programs a year, new interactive exhibits and countless stories honored, you can part of what's next as we approach America250.
OUR MISSION IN THE HEART OF D.C.
Where America Honors Its Sea Services
Located on Pennsylvania Avenue between the White House and Capitol, the United States Navy Memorial is a living tribute to all who have served, are serving, and will serve in the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine.
Our mission is to Honor, Recognize, and Celebrate the men and women of the Sea Services, past, present, and Future; and to Inform the public about their service.
Through education, commemorative ceremonies, and our iconic Memorial Plaza, we tell the story of service—past, present, and future.
Stand With Those Who Serve
Membership Matters
Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or a patriotic citizen who believes in honoring service, there's a place for you here. Your membership is more than support—it's a statement that the sacrifices of our Sea Services will never be forgotten.
Additional Benefits
✓ Tax-deductible contribution
✓ Member recognition opportunities
✓ Priority event registration
✓ Discounts at the Ship's Store
✓ Invitations to private memorial tours