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Nauticus Celebrates International Clean Energy Day

January 23, 2025

$12 Admission For A Cleaner Tomorrow

Norfolk, Va. (Jan. 23, 2025) — Nauticus invites the community to join them on Sunday, January 26th, for an exciting celebration of International Clean Energy Day. From 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, visitors can explore the world of renewable energy and learn about the innovative solutions shaping a more sustainable future—all for just $12 per person!

This special admission price includes full access to Nauticus and the iconic Battleship Wisconsin. (Please note that no additional discounts apply.)

Visitors of all ages will enjoy a range of engaging activities designed to inspire and educate about clean energy practices. Meet industry experts like Dominion Energy, City of Norfolk, Port of Virginia, CASE KidWind and Sail Nauticus, participate in hands-on exhibits, and discover how we can all contribute to a greener planet.

Don’t Miss Out! Join Nauticus in celebrating International Clean Energy Day and be a part of the global movement toward sustainability. Visit Nauticus’ website for more information or to purchase tickets.

Let’s make a difference together!

About Nauticus

Nauticus is a maritime discovery center located along the waterfront in downtown, Norfolk, VA, offering a unique form of experiential learning for all ages. Through interactive exhibits and STEM to STERN programming, Nauticus uses the museum, Battleship Wisconsin, sailing center, and Schooner Virginia to tell the story of the maritime environment, industry, and the military. The Nauticus Foundation is the nonprofit, 501©3 that supports the mission and activities of Nauticus. Nauticus’ mission is to benefit the community through education, impactful experiences, and sharing access to maritime resources. For more information, visit www.nauticus.org.

WinterFest Will Have Daily Operations through New Year’s Day

January 23, 2025

With Only Two More Value Nights for the Season

Norfolk, Va. (Dec. 11, 2024) — WinterFest, the region’s most unique holiday tradition, is thrilled to announce that it will now be open every single evening (excluding December 25) starting tonight through New Year’s Day! These exciting nights come at the perfect time, making it easier than ever for visitors to immerse themselves in the festive spirit leading up to the holidays.

Whether you’re looking for dazzling light displays, heartwarming entertainment, or seasonal treats, WinterFest is ready to help you create cherished holiday memories any day of the week.

Don’t wait! Tonight, December 11 and tomorrow, December 12, you can soak in the enchanting atmosphere of WinterFest with Value Night pricing, the most affordable ticket for WinterFest left this season.

From twinkling lights to festive music and family-friendly activities, WinterFest is a must-visit destination this holiday season.

Plan Your Visit 

WinterFest on the Wisconsin runs November 15, 2024, to January 1, 2025, and is open on select nights throughout the holiday season. Pricing starting at $18 adult, $16 child general admission. Nauticus members receive a discounted rate of $5 off. 

About Nauticus 

Support for WinterFest on the Wisconsin directly benefits the Nauticus Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit. Funding provides interpretation and restoration of the Battleship Wisconsin and allows Nauticus to open new onboard spaces and experiential learning opportunities for students, families, and visitors. 

For more information, visit www.winterfestonthewisconsin.com or www.nauticus.org  

First Ever 21+ Night at WinterFest on the Wisconsin

January 23, 2025

A Specialty Night at Nauticus Hosted by the Grinch

Norfolk, Va. (Dec. 4, 2024) — Celebrate the holiday season with this special night designed exclusively for adults at “Nauticus After Dark: WinterFest on the Wisconsin” on Thursday, December 5th from 5 PM to 9 PM. This 21+ event promises an unforgettable evening of holiday cheer and playful mischief aboard the historic USS Wisconsin as guests are invited to get “grinched”.

Leave the kids at home to enjoy these additional activities:

  • Specialty holiday cocktails to warm up the festivities.
  • Christmas Karaoke, perfect for showing off your holiday spirit.
  • An exciting scavenger hunt to test your Grinch spotting skills.
  • A visit from the grumpy green grouch, adding a mischievous twist to the night.

Tickets are priced at $25 per person, with a $5 discount for Nauticus members. Guests are encouraged to secure their tickets early as space is limited.

Don’t wait—grab your friends and join the fun! Tickets are available online or in person at Nauticus.

Plan Your Visit 

WinterFest on the Wisconsin runs November 15, 2024, to January 1, 2025, and is open on select nights throughout the holiday season. Pricing starting at $18 adult, $16 child general admission. Nauticus members receive a discounted rate of $5 off. 

About Nauticus 

Support for WinterFest on the Wisconsin directly benefits the Nauticus Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit. Funding provides interpretation and restoration of the Battleship Wisconsin and allows Nauticus to open new onboard spaces and experiential learning opportunities for students, families, and visitors. 

For more information, visit www.winterfestonthewisconsin.com or www.nauticus.org  

Experience the Magic: Community Night at WinterFest on the Wisconsin

January 23, 2025

45% Admission Reduction Coincides with Grand Illumination Parade.

Norfolk, Va. (Nov. 19, 2024) — Celebrate the holiday season with Hampton Roads’ favorite new tradition! WinterFest on the Wisconsin is offering a special Community Night this Saturday, November 23rd, featuring 45% off admission—just $12 per person. This exclusive offer coincides with Downtown Norfolk’s iconic Grand Illumination Parade, making it the perfect festive night out for the whole family.

“This is our way of saying ‘thank you’ to the incredible community that supports us year-round,” said Nauticus Executive Director Stephen Kirkland. “By offering discounted tickets on a premium Saturday night, we’re making it easier than ever for everyone to enjoy this magical holiday experience.”

Key Details:

  • When: Saturday, November 23rd
  • Special Admission Price: $12 for adults and children (45% savings!)
  • Offer Valid: Only for November 23rd; tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. No other discounts apply.

Can’t make it on Community Night? Don’t worry! WinterFest runs through January 1, 2025, with tickets starting at $18 for adults and $16 for children. Nauticus members enjoy an additional $5 discount.

Plan Your Visit 

WinterFest on the Wisconsin runs November 15, 2024, to January 1, 2025, and is open on select nights throughout the holiday season. Pricing starting at $18 adult, $16 child general admission. Nauticus members receive a discounted rate of $5 off. 

About Nauticus 

Support for WinterFest on the Wisconsin directly benefits the Nauticus Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit.Funding provides interpretation and restoration of the Battleship Wisconsin and allows Nauticus to open new onboard spaces and experiential learning opportunities for students, families, and visitors. 

For more information, visit www.winterfestonthewisconsin.com or www.nauticus.org  

WinterFest Receives National Recognition; Opens This Weekend

January 23, 2025

New This Season – WinterFest on the Wisconsin Celebrates Classic Holiday Movies.

Norfolk, Va. (Nov. 12, 2024) — An enormous, 35-foot-tall leg lamp and a Buddy the Elf trail are just two of the new signature additions to Nauticus’ annual WinterFest on the Wisconsin. Recently, U.S. News & World Report called these types of creative displays “…a fun twist on traditional light festivals” as it recognized Nauticus’ WinterFest as one of the Top 28 Christmas Light Displays in the United States (U.S. News Travel).

“Being recognized as one of America’s top holiday light displays was a big surprise and a huge honor,” said Stephen E. Kirkland, executive director of Nauticus. “A lot of love goes into producing this event, and this season we’ve got some amazing new additions we think families will really enjoy.”

Boasting more than one million holiday lights, WinterFest on the Wisconsin will also introduce its new Mistletoe Marina Circus this season, featuring a mind-boggling magician performance, an impressive juggler, and a nationally recognized aerialist.  Also new this season – the Snow Queen will host a holiday tree lighting celebration twice nightly aboard the Battleship Wisconsin. Many WinterFest traditions will return, including a waterfront s’mores station, the marina bar, a puppet version of A Christmas Carol, animatronic elves throughout the battleship’s lower decks, and an elaborate holiday train display.  Opening this Friday, November 15, WinterFest on the Wisconsin will be shining brightly on select nights through January 1, 2025.

Plan Your Visit
WinterFest ticket prices for 2024 offer flexible options for every visitor. General admission tickets are $22 for adults and $18 for children (ages 3-12) on premium nights, with value night tickets available at $18 for adults and $16 for children. A new FLEX option is also available for an additional $3, allowing guests to reschedule if plans change. WinterFest tickets can be purchased here.

Nauticus members receive the best discount, with adult tickets starting as low as $17 on premium nights and $13 on value nights. Membership not only provides special savings but also supports the Nauticus Foundation, making it a great time to join.

WinterFest on the Wisconsin would not be possible without the support of its generous sponsors: TowneBank, The Perry Family Foundation, Centura College, Tidewater Tech, Aviation Institute of Maintenance, IPConfigure, Seaward Marine Services, MHI, PRA Group, Xylem Tree Experts, Rivers Casino, Virginia Maritime Association, Hampton Roads Shipping Association, Southern Bank, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Festevents, Center Stage, Emerlin Custom Storage and WTKR Channel 3.

About Nauticus

Support for WinterFest on the Wisconsin directly benefits the Nauticus Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit. Funding provides interpretation and restoration of the Battleship Wisconsin and allows Nauticus to open new onboard spaces and experiential learning opportunities for students, families, and visitors.

For more information, visit www.winterfestonthewisconsin.com or www.nauticus.org

Nauticus Unveils $21.5 Million Redesign on Veterans Day Weekend

January 23, 2025

Community invited to celebrate total transformation with discounted admission.

Norfolk, VA – After a comprehensive redesign of all its exhibit and visitor experience areas, Nauticus invites the Hampton Roads community to experience a totally “reimagined” maritime discovery center on Saturday, November 9, and Sunday, November 10.  This grand reopening will showcase all-new interactive exhibits, new classroom areas, an enhanced atrium and visitor spaces, and educational programming. 

“We’re inviting the community to come back to Nauticus for the very first time,” said Stephen Kirkland, executive director of Nauticus.  “This once-in-a-generation redesign is a game changer for the organization and sets the stage for decades to come.”

The “New Nauticus” celebration coincides with Veterans Day weekend, providing a meaningful opportunity to honor our nation’s veterans and their contributions to maritime and military history.  Deeply discounted tickets may be purchased for $5 per person online in advance, or $10 per person at the door (day-of).  Tickets include admission to the Battleship Wisconsin. 

Along with Nauticus’ education department, maritime partners including the Virginia Ship Repair Association, Old Dominion University, James Madison University, and Veolia will be on-hand with specialty programming.  Nauticus’ newly named Brock Theater will be screening Dinosaurs of Antarctica every hour on the hour.

Grand Opening Weekend Hours

Saturday, November 9: 10 AM – 5 PM
Sunday, November 10: 12 PM – 5 PM

Discounted Ticket Prices*

$5 per person in advance
$10 per person at the door (day-of)

*No other discounts apply on grand opening weekend.

Food Pop-Ups

Join us for local flavors from on-site food pop-ups:
Saturday, November 9 (10 AM – 1 PM): It Can Be Coffee and O’s Donuts
Saturday, November 9 (12 PM – 3 PM): Cast Iron Catering Co. and Pelican Pizza

Invitation to Media

We warmly invite members of the press to join us in celebrating this grand opening and the Veterans Day weekend at Nauticus.  To RSVP, please contact Cat Taterway, Associate Director of Marketing, at catherine.taterway@norfolk.gov or 540-808-3113.

About Reimagine Nauticus

Reimagine Nauticus is an ambitious redesign project that has transformed our museum into an even more interactive and immersive experience. With new exhibits, enhanced facilities, and innovative technology, Reimagine Nauticus represents our dedication to providing an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.

About Nauticus

Nauticus is a maritime discovery center located along the waterfront in downtown, Norfolk, VA, offering a unique form of experiential learning for all ages. Through interactive exhibits and STEM to STERN programming, Nauticus uses the museum, Battleship Wisconsin, sailing center, and Schooner Virginia to tell the story of the maritime environment, industry, and the military. Nauticus Foundation is the nonprofit, 501©3 that supports the mission and activities of Nauticus. Nauticus’ mission is to benefit the community through education, impactful experiences, and sharing access to maritime resources. For more information, visit www.nauticus.org.

WinterFest on the Wisconsin Goes Hollywood with Seasonal Movie Favorites

January 23, 2025

Tickets on sale NOW; Nauticus taking requests for movies to include in event!

Norfolk, Va. (Oct. 7, 2024) — It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and Nauticus’ annual WinterFest on the Wisconsin is celebrating with an all-new holiday movie theme.  A towering 35-foot-tall leg lamp, a larger-than-life Ralphie (complete with his pink bunny suit), two Grinch “takeover” nights, and an elaborate new train display featuring everyone’s favorite elf are just some of the additions that make this season’s WinterFest bigger and brighter than ever!  


Help Nauticus bring the magic to life by sharing which movies you love to cozy up to during the winter. Submit your vote on Nauticus.org/holidaymovievote and be a part of this year’s WinterFest experience!

“It’s our fifth season of WinterFest and we’re going full out Griswold,” said Stephen E. Kirkland, executive director of Nauticus. “We’ve been watching holiday movies around here since March to get in the zone.”

Tickets go on sale today, and WinterFest on the Wisconsin will be open on select nights from November 15, 2024, through January 1, 2025.

Other new additions this season include a team of elves recreating classic holiday movie scenes, nightly magic performances, juggling, an amazing aerialist show, and never-before-seen spaces aboard the Battleship Wisconsin.  Back by popular demand, WinterFest will feature its magical Mistletoe Marina, with beautifully decorated boats, live entertainment, festive food and drink options, and a waterfront s’mores station.

Plan Your Visit:
General admission tickets are priced at $22 for adults and $18 for children (ages 3-12) on premium nights, while value night tickets are available at $18 for adults and $16 for children. A FLEX option is also available for an additional $3, allowing guests to reschedule their visit if plans change.

Children 2 and under can attend for free, making WinterFest a family-friendly experience for all ages. With limited availability per time slot, it’s highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance to secure your preferred date and time.

Tickets and Proceeds:
All proceeds from WinterFest support the Nauticus Foundation, a nonprofit that funds the restoration and interpretation of the Battleship Wisconsin. Tickets can be purchased online starting today, and guests are encouraged to buy early to secure their preferred dates and times.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.winterfestonthewisconsin.com or www.nauticus.org.

About Nauticus

Support for WinterFest on the Wisconsin directly benefits the Nauticus Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit. Funding provides interpretation and restoration of the Battleship Wisconsin and allows Nauticus to open new onboard spaces and experiential learning opportunities for students, families and visitors. For more information, visit www.winterfestonthewisconsin.com or www.nauticus.org

Nauticus’ New Logo Reflects Transformational Redesign 

January 23, 2025

Nauticus Introduces New Logo and Branding after $21.5 Million Revamp.

Norfolk, Va. (Oct. 1, 2024) — As Nauticus prepares to unveil its once-in-a-generation redesign to Hampton Roads students and families, the maritime discovery center is also introducing a new logo to reflect its renewed commitment to education, exploration, and discovery.  Nauticus’ new logo and branding parallels its extensive, $21.5 million exhibit redesign project, which positions the organization as a dynamic center for engagement and learning.

“This massive redesign has completely reimagined Nauticus,” said Stephen Kirkland, executive director of Nauticus. “It’s a new day for our organization and we needed a logo that reflected that transformation.”

The Reimagined Nauticus Grand Opening will be held on November 9th & 10th.  The weekend will include a special $5 admission rate and related programming/events.  For more information about Nauticus’ redesign and to learn more about its new logo, visitwww.nauticus.org.

About Reimagine Nauticus

Reimagine Nauticus is an ambitious redesign project that has completely transformed the maritime discovery center into an even more interactive and immersive experience.  The project includes all new state-of-the-art exhibits, a new student learning lab, enhanced visitor areas, and innovative programming.

About Nauticus

Nauticus is a maritime discovery center located along the waterfront in downtown, Norfolk, VA, offering a unique form of experiential learning for all ages. Through interactive exhibits and STEM to STERN programming, Nauticus uses the museum, Battleship Wisconsin, sailing center, and Schooner Virginia to tell the story of the maritime environment, industry, and the military. Nauticus Foundation is the nonprofit, 501©3 that supports the mission and activities of Nauticus. Nauticus’ mission is to benefit the community through education, impactful experiences, and sharing access to maritime resources. For more information, visitwww.nauticus.org.

Nauticus to Host EdTalk in Honor of Juneteenth with Author David Wright Faladé

January 23, 2025

A book discussion and signing featuring Black Cloud Rising, a novel on local hero, Sgt. Richard Etheridge

Norfolk, Va. – Nauticus will host an EdTalk on Juneteenth featuring esteemed author, David Wright Faladé who will lead an engaging discussion centered around his acclaimed 2022 novel, Black Cloud Rising. Join Nauticus for this FREE event on Wednesday, June 19 from 6 – 7:30PM. 

This interactive program will pay tribute to Hampton Roads local hero, Sgt. Richard Etheridge, whose 36th USCT regiment played a pivotal role in Texas during the enforcement of the final emancipation of slaves on June 19th, a day now commemorated as Juneteenth.

With powerful depictions of the bonds formed between fighting men and heartrending scenes of sacrifice and courage, Black Cloud Rising offers a compelling and nuanced portrait of enslaved men and women crossing the threshold to freedom. 

Event Timeline:
5:30PM – Doors Open
6:00PM – 7:30PM – Author Q&A and Book Signing

The event is free and open to the public. Books will be available for purchase at the event. Registration is required as space is limited. Click here to register!

About the Author
David Wright Faladé is the author of the acclaimed books, Fire on the Beach and Black Cloud Rising and holds a Bachelor of Arts from Carleton College and an Master of Fine Arts from the MFA Program for Poets & Writers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Faladé currently teaches at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

About Nauticus  
Nauticus is a maritime discovery center located along the waterfront in downtown, Norfolk, VA, offering a unique form of experiential learning for all ages. Through interactive exhibits and STEM to STERN programming, Nauticus uses the museum, Battleship Wisconsin, sailing center, and Schooner Virginia to tell the story of the maritime environment, industry, and the military. The Nauticus Foundation is the nonprofit, 501©3 that supports the mission and activities of Nauticus. Nauticus’ mission is to benefit the community through education, impactful experiences, and sharing access to maritime resources. For more information, visit www.nauticus.org.

First-Ever Jimmy Buffett Tribute Concert Held Aboard Historic Battleship Wisconsin

January 23, 2025

Nauticus to Honor Singer-Songwriter, Jimmy Buffett, with Live Band on Father’s Day Weekend

Norfolk, Va. – Nauticus is headed to “Margaritaville” this summer with their new event, Fins on the Fantail. Parrot heads are invited to board the historic Battleship Wisconsin to honor Jimmy Buffett, with live music by the Tiki Bar. This 21 and up Buffett-themed event will occur on Saturday, June 15th from 5PM -8:30PM where guests can enjoy the live music with themed drinks, food vendors, games and more all on the fantail of the largest and last Battleship built by the U.S. Navy. 

Event Details:
Location – Battleship Wisconsin at Nauticus
Doors Open – 5:00PM
Music Starts – 5:30PM, Event ends at 8:30PM

Purchase this perfect Father’s Day gift today before it sells out! Tickets are $20 per person and increase by $10 on the day of the event. As always, Nauticus members receive a discount on tickets. Tickets can be purchased here.

All Fins on the Fantail proceeds directly support transformational youth sailing programs for Title I students in Norfolk public schools. Learn more about Sail Nauticus and its life changing programs here.

Must be ages 21+ to attend, ID will be verified upon arrival.

Fins on the Fantail would not be possible without the support of its generous sponsors: Virginia Maritime Association, Hampton Roads Shipping Association, and Surfside.

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About Nauticus

Nauticus is a maritime discovery center located along the waterfront in downtown, Norfolk, VA, offering a unique form of experiential learning for all ages. Through interactive exhibits and STEM to STERN programming, Nauticus uses the museum, Battleship Wisconsin, sailing center, and Schooner Virginia to tell the story of the maritime environment, industry, and the military. Nauticus Foundation is the nonprofit, 501©3 that supports the mission and activities of Nauticus. Nauticus’ mission is to benefit the community through education, impactful experiences, and sharing access to maritime resources. For more information, visit www.nauticus.org.