The much-anticipated event marks the start of America’s 250th maritime celebration as New Orleans becomes the first host city to welcome an extraordinary international fleet to the Mississippi River.

From 27 May to 1 June, The Big Easy’s storied riverfront will come alive with tall ships, US Navy vessels, international crews, fireworks, music, family events and free public tours - creating a spectacular celebration in the heart of the city.

Walt Leger III, President and CEO of New Orleans & Company, said: “As the inaugural host city for Sail 250, New Orleans is proud to help launch America’s 250th celebration from one of the world’s great port cities.

“This event celebrates the spirit of adventure, culture and connection that has defined New Orleans for generations. We are delighted to welcome sailors, visitors and families from around the world to experience the energy and hospitality of our city.”

Ships arriving this week include USS Kearsarge, USS Farragut, US Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk, HMS Trent from United Kingdom, HNLMS Friesland from the Netherlands, and an impressive line-up of international tall ships including Eagle, Esmeralda, Unión, Gloria and Libertad.

One of the highlights of the week will be tomorrow’s (Thursday 28th May) Parade of Sail, when ships travel upriver past downtown New Orleans before docking along the riverfront - keep an eye on their socials for photos and videos - Sail 250 Facebook and Sail 250 Instagram

The celebration will then continue throughout the week with free ship tours, cultural programming, family activities, a Seafood Cook-Off and a fireworks display over the Mississippi River on Saturday evening.

• New Orleans, Louisiana: 28 May – 1 June
• Norfolk, Virginia: 19-24 June
• Baltimore, Maryland: 25 June – 1 July
• New York City, New York: 4-8 July
• Boston, Massachusetts: 11-16 July

As the first stop in the national Sail 250 series, New Orleans launches a summer-long America 250 celebration that continues to Norfolk, Baltimore, New York and Boston, as per the schedule above.

• New Orleans is the first host city for Sail 250, part of the America 250 celebrations beginning May 27.
• The free public event will transform the Mississippi River waterfront with tall ships, naval vessels and maritime heritage displays.
• Ships from the U.S., U.K., Chile, Peru, Colombia, Uruguay, Sweden, the Netherlands and Argentina will take part.
• Visitors can enjoy 30-minute ship tours, the Parade of Sail, fireworks, a seafood cookoff and a Blessing of the Fleet.
• Events will take place across the French Quarter, Warehouse District and riverfront areas.
• New Orleans is the only Gulf Coast and Southern stop on the Sail 250 tour.

For complete information about Sail 250 New Orleans, including ship locations, tour schedules, and special events, visit sail250neworleans.com or neworleans.com.