Fun Things to Do During LA Fleet Week

LA Fleet Week is Southern California's largest Memorial Day event, a multi-day celebration that honors our nation's Sea Services. Held on the LA Waterfront at the Port of Los Angeles in San Pedro, this free event offers a variety of activities that provide both entertainment and education about our military forces. Whether you're a local or a visitor, LA Fleet Week promises a memorable experience with its diverse lineup of events and attractions.

One of the main highlights of LA Fleet Week is the opportunity to tour active duty ships. This unique experience allows visitors to step aboard some of the Navy's finest vessels, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of the sailors who serve on them. The tours are guided by the sailors themselves, providing first hand insights into the operations and duties aboard these ships.

For those interested in military technology and history, the military displays and equipment demonstrations are a must-see. These exhibits showcase a range of military vehicles, weapons, and other equipment used by the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Air Force, and Army. The demonstrations highlight the capabilities and uses of this equipment, offering an engaging way to learn about the technological advancements and operational strategies of the armed forces.

Throughout LA Fleet Week, various live entertainment performances take place across different stages. These include music concerts, dance performances, and other live acts that cater to a wide audience. The military bands, in particular, are a crowd favorite.

The festivities extend beyond the LA Waterfront into the local communities of San Pedro and Wilmington. Downtown San Pedro and Wilmington host welcome parties that feature food, music, and local vendors. These neighborhood activations provide a chance to explore the local culture and cuisine while celebrating LA Fleet Week.

Aircraft flyovers are a spectacular part of LA Fleet Week, featuring a variety of military aircraft soaring over the LA Waterfront. These flyovers are not only visually impressive but also serve as a powerful tribute to the skill and precision of our military pilots. Keep your eyes on the sky to catch these breathtaking aerial displays.

The Galley Wars culinary cook-off is a friendly competition between teams from the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Air Force, and Army. Each team showcases their cooking skills, creating dishes that are judged by a panel of experts. This event is a fun and delicious way to see the lighter side of military life and enjoy some great food.

LA Fleet Week also features a variety of competitions that visitors can participate in or watch. These include dodgeball games and the Military Has Talent competition, where service members showcase their hidden talents in music, dance, comedy, and more. These events add a fun and interactive element to the festivities.

While at LA Fleet Week, make sure to visit the Battleship IOWA Museum. This historic U.S. Navy ship served in WWII, Korea, and the Cold War and is now a top attraction and museum in Los Angeles. The self-guided tour covers five decks and includes exhibits that provide a deep dive into the ship's history. The tour also features the Vicky the Dog scavenger hunt, making it a fun activity for families with children. Admission fees help maintain and operate the museum, ensuring this iconic landmark continues to educate and inspire future generations.

Admission fees for the Battleship IOWA Museum are as follows:

• Adults (12-61): $29.95
• Youth (3-11): $21.95
• Seniors (62+): $26.95
• Military & Veterans (w/ID): $26.95
• Children (0-2): FREE

LA Fleet Week is a vibrant and patriotic event that offers something for everyone. From ship tours and military displays to live entertainment and local activations, it is a celebration of our nation's Sea Services that you won't want to miss. Whether you're looking to learn more about military life, enjoy some great food and entertainment, or simply spend a fun day with family and friends, LA Fleet Week is the place to be this Memorial Day weekend.