About Sail 250
New Orleans & Company and the Port of New Orleans is partnering with the U.S. Navy & U.S. Coast Guard for Sail 250.
Sail 250 will showcase the gathering of the biggest-ever flotilla of tall ships to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States. New Orleans will be the first stop for the nationwide celebration with the ships docking at the Port of New Orleans along the Mississippi River.
Between May 27 and June 1, 2026, Sail 250 will celebrate America's Sestercentennial with tall ships flotilla, as well as events, festivities, and celebrations. This unforgettable event is to educate, entertain, and engage audiences across the country.
Sail 250 Details
You can find the ships floating up the riverfront from the Bywater up to the Crescent City Connection. The waterfront is accessible by foot and close to most major hotels, attractions, and restaurants.
This is a free event open to the public. Fireworks will light the sky above downtown New Orleans on Saturday, May 30, at 9 p.m.
Sail 250's Family Fun & Sports Day will also take place Sunday, May 31, 2026, at Audubon Riverview Park. This will feature fun activities such as a Community Fitness Workout and an International Soccer Cup. Come to Sail 250 for a fun-filled weekend!
Schedule
THURSDAY, MAY 28, 2026
Arrival of Ships (8 a.m. to 1 p.m.)
Public Ship Tours (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2026
Public Ship Tours (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2026
Public Ship Tours (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
Fireworks (9 p.m.)
SUNDAY, MAY 31, 2026
Public Ship Tours (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
Family Fun Sports Day (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
Seafood Cook-Off (1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at The Delacroix)
MONDAY, JUNE 1, 2026
Blessing of the Ships (8 a.m. at The Moonwalk)
