Enjoy a Historic Fall Getaway to South Jersey for Homecoming 250
In 2026, the United States will mark 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. But here in South Jersey, the celebration begins early.
This October and November, Homecoming 250 shines a spotlight on the 250th birthdays of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. While events will take place throughout the region, Camden, New Jersey, offers a front-row seat to the festivities.
Set along the Delaware River, Camden welcomes visitors with a proud maritime story and a vibrant waterfront. Here you can watch patriotic ceremonies unfold against a backdrop of sweeping river views, explore history that shaped America’s seafaring tradition, and enjoy the warmth of a community that celebrates with pride.
Beyond the waterfront, South Jersey invites discovery at every turn. From local dining and cultural experiences to nearby neighborhoods rich with character, the region blends small-town charm with big-city access. Visitors can take in Philadelphia’s history, then cross the river to experience South Jersey’s own traditions, flavors, and hospitality.
Homecoming 250 is not just a commemoration. It is a reason to visit, connect, and see South Jersey in a new light. Come for the celebration, and leave with lasting memories of a place that welcomes you like family.
Watch the Parade of Ships and Blessing of the Fleet
When: Morning of Thursday, October 9, 2025
Where: Wiggins Waterfront Park and the Camden Riverfront
On October 9, Homecoming 250 begins with the Parade of Ships. This rare spectacle offers the chance to watch Navy and Marine Corps vessels sail up the Delaware River, joined by historic replicas from the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Every era of American conflict will be represented, and each ship will glide past Camden before reaching Philadelphia.
The parade also features the Blessing of the Fleet, a centuries-old tradition where clergy gather to pray for the ships and their crews. It is a moving ceremony that blends faith, hope, and history, offering a glimpse into the rituals that have guided seafarers for generations.
For the very best views, South Jersey offers a front row. Wiggins Waterfront Park and the Camden Riverfront provide open, unobstructed spaces where you can spread out a blanket, set up chairs, and take in the sights. Arrive early to claim your spot and consider bringing breakfast for a relaxed picnic by the water. With the river sparkling at your feet and the ships sailing by, it is a moment you will not forget.
Honor Those Who Served at the Veterans Day Ceremony
When: 11 AM on Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Where: Aboard the Battleship New Jersey, docked on the Camden Waterfront (62 Battleship Place)
After weeks of celebrations on both sides of the Delaware River, Homecoming 250 reaches its grand finale with a Veterans Day Ceremony aboard the Battleship New Jersey, the most decorated battleship in American history.
Free and open to all, this heartfelt ceremony will honor veterans from every branch of the armed forces. Visitors can expect stirring patriotic music, inspiring guest speakers, the presentation of colors, and quiet moments set aside for reflection.
What makes this ceremony extraordinary is the setting itself. The Battleship New Jersey is more than a museum ship; it’s a living piece of history. Having served in World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cold War, and conflicts in the Middle East, the ship embodies the courage and sacrifice of generations.
To stand on its deck on Veterans Day, surrounded by community and history, is to take part in a celebration that feels both deeply personal and proudly national. It is South Jersey’s way of honoring service, remembering sacrifice, and inviting you to be part of something unforgettable.
Step Inside History Aboard the Battleship New Jersey
When: 10 AM to 4 PM daily
Where: 62 Battleship Place, Camden, NJ
If you have never set foot on the most decorated battleship in U.S. Navy history, Homecoming 250 is the perfect time to do so. Today, the Battleship New Jersey rests along Camden’s waterfront as a floating museum, inviting visitors to walk its storied decks and discover its powerful legacy.
As you explore, you can stand where admirals once planned naval strategy, peek into the sailors’ bunks, climb into a massive gun turret, and even try out the admiral’s chair. Exhibits bring to life the ship’s firepower and the pivotal role it played in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Cold War, and beyond. With an add-on ticket, you can fire the saluting gun yourself — a thrill that connects you directly to the ship’s past.
During Homecoming 250, the Battleship New Jersey will host a special lineup of events that add even more excitement to your visit. Along with tours and hands-on experiences, you will find unique opportunities to celebrate naval history, honor veterans, and enjoy the spirit of South Jersey’s waterfront community.
- Homecoming 250 History Symposium: a special event co-organized by Rutgers University–Camden and the University of Pennsylvania
- Black Dragon Smoker: an onboard boxing match with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and live music
- Family Day & Fleet Fest: a day of family-friendly activities, plus historic firetrucks
- Big J Food Truck Festival: a variety of local food trucks, featuring a flyover by the Blue Angels
Even if you cannot attend this year’s special events, the Battleship New Jersey is always worth a visit. Step aboard to explore its two signature exhibits, each offering a powerful look at the ship’s history and the lives of those who served.
Shipbuilding of the Delaware River
Camden and Philadelphia are home to centuries of shipbuilding history, and the shipyards along the Delaware River gave birth to many of America’s most celebrated vessels. Discover a fascinating story of craftsmanship and innovation through archival photographs, original blueprints, and historic shipbuilding tools—all on board a storied battleship.
Support Any Friend (New in Fall 2025)
In his 1961 inaugural address, President John F. Kennedy pledged to “support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty.” This exhibit focuses on how the Navy supported that pledge through its Cold War days. Through rare artifacts, first-person accounts, and interactive displays, you’ll learn about naval aviation, special forces, and surface warfare communities—diving deep into the Navy’s long, exciting legacy.
Plan Your Fall Getaway to South Jersey
If you’re a history buff or maritime enthusiast, there’s no better time to visit South Jersey than October and November 2025. On the Camden Waterfront, you’ll witness naval heritage up close and watch history come to life in beautiful parades and ceremonies. You’ll have the chance to personally interact with history as you become part of the 250th celebrations.
Camden is a vibrant city with a rich heritage and plenty to explore. After touring the Battleship New Jersey, stroll through some of our parks, visit a museum, and dine along the river. Check the Homecoming 250 website for more special events throughout the region.
If you are eager to keep exploring, South Jersey offers a treasure trove of historic sites and museums along with scenic fall destinations. Stroll through Batsto Village, a beautifully preserved ghost town tucked within the Pinelands, or wander into charming towns and cultural landmarks that showcase the region’s rich character.
Come for Homecoming 250 and let it be the start of a larger journey through South Jersey. Plan your visit now so you can be part of the 250th celebration and uncover the stories, scenery, and spirit that make this region unforgettable.
