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Nauticus Wins ABC-TV’s The Great Christmas Light Fight

December 19, 2025

Winterfest Spotlighted on Nationally Televised Competition; Claims Trophy and $50,000 Prize

Norfolk, VA (December 19, 2025)— Nauticus’ Winterfest on the Wisconsin has been crowned the winner of ABC’s The Great Christmas Light Fight in the 2025 Heavyweight Division. The nationally televised episode, which aired December 18, showcased three remarkable large-scale holiday experiences — Nauticus’ Winterfest on the Wisconsin, Northern California’s Imaginarium and Houston’s River of Lights. After an unforgettable competition, Nauticus brought the trophy home to Norfolk.

Heavyweight Division judge Carter Oosterhouse praised Winterfest for its scale, creativity, and flawless execution. He noted how challenging it is to use a battleship as a backdrop and said Nauticus delivered something the competition had never seen before.

“This whole process has been so much fun for our team, and the national recognition just showcases what a truly magical experience Winterfest has become,” said Stephen Kirkland, Executive Director of Nauticus. “Though this win obviously expands awareness across the country, Winterfest is and always will be designed for families throughout our own community.”

As part of the victory, the Nauticus Foundation will receive the $50,000 grand prize, which will directly support the nonprofit’s mission. Funds will help advance youth maritime education programs, including the award-winning Sail Nauticus Academy, and provide critical support for the ongoing preservation of the Battleship Wisconsin, the last battleship built by the U.S. Navy.

Winterfest on the Wisconsin continues through December 31, offering families an opportunity to step aboard a national award-winning holiday destination. Tickets and event information are available at WinterfestOnTheWisconsin.com.

About WinterFest on the Wisconsin

WinterFest on the Wisconsin is Hampton Roads’ most unique holiday experience, transforming the historic Battleship Wisconsin and the surrounding Nauticus waterfront campus into a dazzling winter wonderland. With over one million lights, immersive themed environments, festive entertainment, and all-new attractions each year, Winterfest offers unforgettable moments for visitors of all ages. Produced by the Nauticus Foundation, Winterfest supports the museum’s mission to inspire and educate through maritime discovery. Learn more at winterfestonthewisconsin.com.

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.

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ABC-TV footage and additional photos: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/3h3acxpwymm7wxj3n1lva/AHe0-Qm-AXPt-jKi9E6gS2c?rlkey=jtzvp2l1tixlsg5cazup4y5k6&st=0670pm7a&dl=0

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Nauticus’ Winterfest Returns with Norfolk’s First Lighted Waterfront Trail

December 19, 2025

Winterfest Riverwalk extends from the Pagoda through Town Point Park; the free, mile-long holiday experience features new Ice Rink & Harbor Lights Cruises

NORFOLK, Va. (Nov. 14, 2025) – Tonight, Nauticus is set to unveil a greatly expanded Winterfest on the Wisconsin, featuring a new, 30,000 square-foot immersive indoor journey, the Kingdom of the Snow Queen, and Norfolk’s first-ever lighted walking trail spanning a mile along the Elizabeth River.

Developed by Nauticus and the City of Norfolk, the Winterfest Riverwalk is a free, waterfront experience that extends the magic of Winterfest beyond the battleship and along the Downtown Norfolk waterfront. The mile-long illuminated trail stretches along the Elizabeth River from the Pagoda & Oriental Gardens, around the Battleship Wisconsin, and throughout Town Point Park.

Visitors will encounter a forest of dazzling lighted tree displays, festive photo opportunities, and holiday music nightly from 5 PM–11 PM. Free and open to the public, the Winterfest Riverwalk opens tonight and will be illuminated through New Year’s Eve. 

“Transforming Norfolk’s waterfront into a true holiday destination has been the goal since we first created Winterfest in 2020,” said Stephen Kirkland, Executive Director of Nauticus. “We’ve always imagined the lights of the battleship one day spilling out along the waterfront for everyone to enjoy and this season that dream becomes reality.” 

Though Nauticus’ Winterfest will anchor the lighted trail, two new additions will bring even more cheer this year.  Skate the Riverwalk is a new ice skating experience located in Fountain Park next to Waterside, and guests can also enjoy evening boat cruises for prime views of the dazzling waterfront.

The Winterfest Riverwalk is free and open to the public, though guests can enhance their evening along the trail:

  • Winterfest on the Wisconsin – Nauticus’ signature holiday destination featuring over two million lights aboard and around the historic Battleship Wisconsin, plus the new “Kingdom of the Snow Queen” indoor experience.
  • Winterfest Harbor Lights Cruises with the Victory Rover – A 30-minute guided lighted harbor cruise offering sweeping views of the Winterfest Riverwalk and battleship from the water, kicking off November 28 on select weekends through December 20.
  • Skate the Riverwalk – Located in TowneBank Fountain Park within the illuminated Winterfest Riverwalk, this 4,400-square-foot real ice rink offers a festive open-air experience surrounded by fire pits, holiday music, and seasonal favorites like hot chocolate. Perfect for date nights, family outings, or creating new holiday traditions, Skate the Riverwalk includes rental skates for all ages and will host themed events throughout the season, including Skate & Send: Letters to Santa on Ice and Skate with Santa nights.

The expansion onto the waterfront comes as Winterfest steps into a growing national spotlight. This season, Winterfest on the Wisconsin will appear as a contender in the “Heavyweights” category on ABC-TV’s The Great Christmas Light Fight, airing Thursday, December 18 at 9 PM ET.  Viewers across the country will get a look at an illuminated Nauticus and the iconic Battleship Wisconsin – but local residents can experience it in person all season long.

Winterfest on the Wisconsin and the Winterfest Riverwalk run nightly from November 14 through December 31.  Winterfest Riverwalk is free and open to the public; Winterfest tickets and combo tickets with the Harbor Lights Cruise and Skate the Riverwalk are available online.

For more information and tickets, visit WinterfestOnTheWisconsin.com.

 About Winterfest on the Wisconsin

Winterfest on the Wisconsin is Nauticus’ largest annual fundraiser. Now in its 6th year, Winterfest 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

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Nauticus’ Winterfest Competes in National Television Debut

December 19, 2025

Winterfest to appear as Heavyweight Contender on ABC-TV’s “The Great Christmas Light Fight”

Norfolk, Va. (Nov. 10, 2025) Hampton Roads’ beloved holiday tradition, Winterfest on the Wisconsin, will be seen in homes across the country next month.  ABC-TV’s hit holiday competition series, The Great Christmas Light Fight, will feature Winterfest in its “Heavyweights” category.  Winterfest will go head-to-head with two other professionally designed light displays, Northern California’s Imaginarium and Albuquerque’s River of Lights. Winterfest will compete for the show’s coveted trophy along with a $50,000 grand prize.  The episode will air Thursday, December 18 at 9:00 PM ET and can also be streamed on Hulu after its air date.

“We were absolutely thrilled to be invited to compete on such a beloved national holiday show,” said Stephen Kirkland, Executive Director of Nauticus. “We’ve been preparing for this national TV debut for some time and so as you can imagine, this year’s lights will be completely over the top.”   

Now in its sixth dazzling year, Winterfest on the Wisconsin transforms Nauticus and the historic Battleship Wisconsin with more than two million lights, live entertainment, themed bars, s’mores stations, and an all-new immersive experience, The Kingdom of the Snow Queen.  Also new this year, the Winterfest Riverwalk will illuminate the riverfront with a light trail connecting the Pagoda, Nauticus, and Town Point Park.   

Come see this national star in person!
Winterfest opens to the public this Friday, November 14 and runs select evenings through December 31. Guests can explore both the battleship and the museum in an unforgettable setting beneath a canopy of twinkling lights.

Tickets start at just $16 and are available now at WinterfestOnTheWisconsin.com.

About Winterfest on the Wisconsin

Winterfest on the Wisconsin is Nauticus’ largest annual fundraiser. Now in its 6th year, Winterfest 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

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Nauticus Announces Military Appreciation Night at Winterfest

December 19, 2025

500 Free Tickets For Active Duty and Veterans Sponsored by Centura College

Norfolk, Va. (Nov. 3, 2025) — Nauticus will honor active-duty service members and veterans with Military Appreciation Night at Winterfest on the Wisconsin on Saturday, November 15, 2025, made possible through the generosity of Centura College. A total of 500 free tickets will be released online on Monday, November 10 on a first-come, first-served basis.

“The Battleship Wisconsin is a powerful place to say, ‘thank you,’” said Stephen Kirkland, Executive Director of Nauticus. “Thanks to Centura College, Tidewater Tech & Aviation Institute of Maintenance, we’re able to welcome military families to Winterfest for a night of joy on the waterfront and our way of recognizing their service.”

“Supporting our military community is deeply rooted in who we are,” said Ben Clark, Vice President of Business & Civic Impact at Tidewater Tech, Centura College & the Aviation Institute of Maintenance. “For the past five years, our students have proudly created custom displays that bring Winterfest to life — and we’re honored to continue that partnership by giving military families a magical night they deserve.”

This special evening invites military personnel and their families to experience Winterfest’s waterfront wonderland—twinkling displays across the battleship and campus, festive entertainment, photo moments, and the brand-new Kingdom of the Snow Queen indoor experience—at no cost with a valid ticket and military ID.

How to Claim Tickets

Quantity: 500 complimentary tickets (first-come, first-served)
Tickets Go Live: Monday, November 10 at 10AM (online reservation required)
Event Date: Saturday, November 15 (Military Appreciation Night)
Who Qualifies: Active-duty and veterans; families welcome to join but limited to 4 tickets per transaction
Verification: Valid military ID required at entry
Where to Reserve: Online via Nauticus’ Winterfest ticketing (link available on Nauticus channels)

Please note: Complimentary tickets are limited and must be reserved online in advance. Tickets are non-transferable and only valid for November 15 at the time selected.

For event details, visit WinterfestOnTheWisconsin.com

About Winterfest & Nauticus 

Support for Winterfest on the Wisconsin directly benefits the Nauticus Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit. As Nauticus’ largest annual fundraiser, Winterfest helps preserve the Battleship Wisconsin and supports year-round maritime education for our community. For more information, visit www.winterfestonthewisconsin.com or www.nauticus.org

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Riverfront Light Trail and Massive Indoor Expansion Ushers in New Era for Winterfest

December 19, 2025

Winterfest on the Wisconsin expands with new 30,000 sq. ft. indoor world and lighted downtown Riverwalk.

Norfolk, Va. (Oct. 1, 2025) – Nauticus is preparing for its largest holiday experience ever as Winterfest on the Wisconsin returns to Hampton Roads on Friday, November 14.  The beloved annual event is doubling in size with a 30,000-square-foot indoor journey entitled the Kingdom of the Snow Queen.  This immersive adventure will transport families through a snowy landscape where they’ll encounter a talking polar bear, life-sized nutcrackers, a wise old owl, and the Snow Queen herself.  This epic adventure is included with regular Winterfest admission.

Also new this season is Downtown Norfolk’s first-ever walking light trail.  Extending from the Pagoda, around the battleship, and through Town Point Park, the Winterfest Riverwalk features hundreds of thousands of lights along the Elizabeth River.  The half mile-long trail is free and open to the public every night throughout the holiday season. 

The star of the show continues to be the Battleship Wisconsin, decorated again this season with more than 2 million dazzling holiday lights and a new below-deck experience.

“This year marks a turning point for Winterfest,” said Stephen Kirkland, Executive Director of Nauticus. “We’ve literally reimagined every aspect of the experience, more than doubling its size.  Still, families will pay the same ticket price they’ve come to expect.  It’s our way of giving back to the community while creating the most over-the-top, magical celebration in Hampton Roads.”

Ticket Sales

Winterfest tickets will go on sale in October: 

  • Early Access for Nauticus Members: Sales begin October 13 
  • General Public Sales: Begin October 20 

Despite this incredible expansion, ticket prices remain unchanged, making Winterfest one of the best holiday values in the region.  Winterfest will run on select nights from November 14 through December 31.

For more information, visit winterfestonthewisconsin.com. 

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

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 For more photos, please click here: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/pptz7nrgakvn4fiw0h0k1/ANzY80nDeQ8rXDmRhC_SYCY?rlkey=m0n1is10r5eapx8l39aonjfa9&st=it3apjjo&dl=0

Nauticus Announces FREE Member Night to Kick Off Winterfest on the Wisconsin

December 19, 2025

Norfolk, VA (Sept. 18, 2025) — For the first time ever, Nauticus members will receive FREE admission to Opening Night of Winterfest on the Wisconsin, the region’s most unique holiday experience. This exclusive perk is available only to active Nauticus members and will take place on Friday, November 14, marking the grand opening of the 2025 Winterfest season.

“This is our way of expressing heartfelt gratitude to our members,” said Rehn West Saunders, director of development and marketing of Nauticus. “Their support helps make everything we do possible, and we’re delighted to show our appreciation with this special holiday experience—on us.”

Winterfest on the Wisconsin returns bigger and brighter than ever, with over one million lights, immersive experiences aboard the historic Battleship Wisconsin, and the debut of a new indoor experience to be announced soon. 

Opening Night (Nov. 14) admission is completely free for Nauticus members, but space is limited, and reservations will be required. Tickets for the public go on sale Monday, October 20, with members receiving first access to reserve their spots beginning Monday, October 13.

Don’t forget, all other Winterfest dates will continue to offer Nauticus members the best discount—$5 off per ticket.

Not a member yet? Now is the perfect time to join. Starting at just $95, any level membership includes free, flexible admission year-round, exclusive event invites, priority access perks and much more. Join by October 12 to secure your access to complimentary Opening Night tickets!

Learn more and become a member today at Nauticus.org/member-winterfest-night.

About Winterfest on the Wisconsin

Winterfest on the Wisconsin is Hampton Roads’ most unique holiday experience, transforming the historic Battleship Wisconsin and the surrounding Nauticus waterfront campus into a dazzling winter wonderland. With over one million lights, immersive themed environments, festive entertainment, and all-new attractions each year, Winterfest offers unforgettable moments for visitors of all ages. Produced by the Nauticus Foundation, Winterfest supports the museum’s mission to inspire and educate through maritime discovery. Learn more at winterfestonthewisconsin.com.

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

December 19, 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

December 19, 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

December 19, 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

December 19, 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