July 2, July 3 | Pier 16 | Free
In celebration of Sail4th 250 and the International Naval Review 250 commemorating America’s 250th birthday, Pier 16 will come alive with free live performances from four Navy bands over two exciting days.
On July 2, from 5–6:30pm, experience a special joint concert featuring the United States Navy Band, the Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marines Portsmouth, and the Royal Australian Navy Band. This unique performance will feature beloved American patriotic classics alongside musical selections celebrating the rich military and cultural traditions of the United Kingdom and Australia.
On July 3, from 3–5pm, enjoy a dynamic performance by the German Navy Band Kiel, featuring traditional German marches—including their signature march Gruß an Kiel—as well as symphonic concert works like Curtain Up by Alfred Reed and maritime favorites such as Sailing and the Marines Medley, a spirited collection of beloved nautical songs.
Preregistration is encouraged for these free performances. Walkups will be accommodated as possible. Seating will not be provided; the program is rain or shine. Come enjoy these free waterfront celebrations of music, tradition, and international camaraderie.
About Sail4th 250
Sail4th 250 is a non-partisan, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and the successor to Operation Sail, Inc.—the organization President Kennedy endorsed in 1961 to use spectacular tall ship gatherings to “promote international friendship, maritime heritage, and support for sail training.” Operation Sail produced landmark events in the Port of New York and New Jersey in 1964, 1976, 1986, 1992, 2000, and 2012, including the legendary Bicentennial gathering that drew six million New Yorkers to the region on July 4, 1976.
For America’s 250th anniversary, on July 4, 2026, Sail4th 250 will host an International Parade of Sail alongside an International Naval Review 250 (INR250), creating the largest maritime gathering in US history. 48 tall ships from 22 nations, joined by allied naval vessels, will represent 46 countries in total in New York Harbor. The visiting tall ships serve as floating classrooms and goodwill ambassadors. They will be open for free public visitation from July 5–7 at berths situated in and around the harbor.
Sail4th 250 is part of Sail250®, a consortium of five US coastal cities, including New Orleans, Norfolk, Baltimore, New York, and Boston, playing host to the tall ships for America’s Semiquincentennial.
Plan Your Visit
We look forward to welcoming you! Before your visit, please review the Visitor Guide and Frequently Asked Questions. You’ll find helpful information on ticketing and discounts, planning a family visit, directions and accessibility at each of our historic sites, the visitor code of conduct, what is and isn’t permitted across the Museum campus, tips for using technology during your visit, and more.
Ready for more?
Head over to our Programs and Events page to see what else is happening at the Museum. Sign up for an upcoming talk, learn more about visiting Wavertree, or explore our virtual offerings.