U.S. Marine Corps, Navy Mark 250th Anniversary in Philly

U.S. Navy Anniversary, Oct. 9-16

• Parade of Ships, Thursday, Oct. 9: Historic, replica, and active Navy ships — representing every significant U.S. conflict from the American Revolution to the present day — will fill the Delaware River harbor to kick off the event in Philadelphia. The ships, docked at Penn's Landing and along the Camden waterfront, will be open for tours.
• 14th Annual Army-Navy Cup, Oct. 10: Witness this soccer double-header at Subaru Park, the home of the Philadelphia Union, in Chester, as the Cadets take on the Midshipmen. The women will play first at 4 p.m., followed by the men at 7 p.m. Tickets are required for admission.
• Navy 250 Gala, Oct. 11: Open to the public, this celebration will be held at the National Constitution Center at 6 p.m. Tickets are required.
• Victory at Sea Concert, Oct. 12: This free, patriotic concert on Independence Mall at 6 p.m. The concert will include a performance from the United States Navy Band, followed by an aerial sound and light show.

U.S. Marine Corps Anniversary, Nov. 10

• Ceremony at the Resting Place of the First Commandant: This public ceremony at 9 a.m. will take place at the historic Arch Street Meeting House. It will honor Samuel Nicholas, the founder and “First Commandant” of the U.S. Marines. Note: Space is limited.
• Marine Corps Commemoration: The Marine Corps will mark its 250th anniversary during a special ceremony that includes comments from military and public officials at Independence Hall at 10:30 a.m.
• 100th Marine Corps Birthday Ball: The public is invited to witness one of the Marine Corps' longstanding traditions. This ball will be held at 6 p.m. in the same ballroom at the Bellevue Hotel where Commandant John A. Lejeune first hosted the event 100 years ago. Tickets are required.