The end of the year is fast approaching for the First Class Midshipmen who will be commissioned as Ensigns in the US Navy or 2nd Lieutenants in the US Marine Corps. Along with the graduation ceremony, which is by invitation only, there are a number of public events including a flight demonstration by the Blue Angels, the Herndon Monument Climb, parades, concerts, and more. For the week, expect heavier than normal traffic and intermittent closures of roads, bridges, and waterways as the Blue Angels perform. If you are attending graduation, please expect added security to accompany the commencement speaker who is typically the President, Vice President, Secretary of Defense, or another high-ranking government official.
Please keep in mind, this event brings lots of visitors to the area and traffic will be heavy throughout the week.
Below are the highlights of the week. A full schedule can be found here.
Wednesday, May 17, 2023
Class of 2026 Herndon Climb 8:00 am. This rite of passage marks the end of Plebe Year for the 4th Class Midshipmen. The class works together (eventually) to climb the monument that has been covered in lard and replace a plebe (dixie cup) hat with an upperclassman’s cover. Please note that this event has been moved up several days to coincide with the conclusion of Sea Trials and the new start time is at 8:00 am.
Tuesday, May 23, 2023
Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Practice 2:00 pm. The squadron is scheduled to arrive at 11:00 am to perform recognizance of the area and prepare for the demonstration. Prime viewing areas include the USNA yard, any of the City street end parks, or ideally on the water.
The Naval Academy Bridge (Route 450) will close from 10:45 am to 1:00 pm, and then again at 1:45 pm through the conclusion of the flight demonstration practice.
Wednesday, May 24, 2023
Blue Angels Flight Demonstration 2:00 pm. Prime viewing areas include the USNA yard, any of the City street end parks, or ideally on the water.
The Naval Academy Bridge (Route 450) will close at 1:45 pm through the conclusion of the flight demonstration.
Thursday, May 25, 2023
Color Parade 11:00 am. This is the final parade of the school year, and the entire brigade will be in dress whites on Worden Field.
Friday, May 26, 2023
Graduation, Class of 2023 10:00 am at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. This event is by invitation only. The Blue Angels will do a flyover. The event will be streamed live.
