Taking a step back
Fleet Week is an annual tradition in which the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard dock their ships in major cities for a week of celebrating and recognizing military services in the U.S. with ship tours, military demonstrations, air shows and educational programs, according to an April 29 news release.
"Fleet Week will build on the positive relationships between the military and the community and allow Houstonians and all other visitors to learn more about the U.S. Navy's proud history of courage and service to the country,” he said in the release.
The update
On Aug. 22, Houston unveiled a new logo for the event and launched a user-friendly website that the community can engage with leading up to the event, which will take place Nov. 5-12.
According to a news release from the city, the website www.fleetweekhouston.com will serve as a central hub for exploring the event schedule—from an expo and local festivities to tours of sea vessels—as well as allow residents to support active-duty personnel through volunteering and sponsorships.
"This will be the first time that Fleet Week is held in the city of Houston, and as mayor, I am proud to partner with the U.S. Navy and other representatives to host a fantastic week of events," Whitmire said. "From the parade of ships to live music, a Houston Texans fan zone, the East End block party and the city of Houston's Veterans Day Parade, we will honor the tradition of Fleet Week while putting a special Houston twist on the activities."
The event will also feature three naval vessels and more than 1,000 sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen. Houston Fleet Week is free and open to the public.
The Fleet Week EXPO will occur simultaneously with the event on Nov. 8 and 9 at Post Houston. The expo will have interactive displays, entertainment, expert talks, demonstrations and samples of Houston culture, cuisine and businesses.
"Houstonians will get to know our sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen, hear their real stories, and see exactly what the sea services do every day to keep America safe and strong," Rear Adm. John W. Hewitt, Commander of the Navy Region Southeast, said in the release. "Houston has incredible energy as a dynamic city, and we're excited to strengthen our military and community ties."
Post Houston will also serve as the departure point for shuttle buses to ship tours at the port.
Fleet Week Houston will also coincide with the city’s Veterans Day celebrations and serve as the closing event for the year-long celebrations of the Navy and Marine Corps' 250th anniversaries.
