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WinterFest Will Have Daily Operations through New Year’s Day

December 11, 2024

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

December 11, 2024

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

December 11, 2024

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

December 11, 2024

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

WinterFest on the Wisconsin Goes Hollywood with Seasonal Movie Favorites

December 11, 2024

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