Visitors will dive into the Elizabeth River and the Chesapeake Bay and learn about the different winter behaviors of some of our aquatic neighbors and residents here at Nauticus!
Visitors will dive into the Elizabeth River and the Chesapeake Bay and learn about the different winter behaviors of some of our aquatic neighbors and residents here at Nauticus!
Enjoy two festive adventures in one night! Take a 30-minute cruise aboard the Victory Rover for stunning views of the Battleship Wisconsin and downtown Norfolk glowing with holiday lights, then step into Winterfest on the Wisconsin for millions of lights, live entertainment, and nonstop holiday cheer. The ultimate waterfront celebration — all in one night!
Psst. Nauticus Members receive $10 off tickets!
Boarding will begin 20 minutes before cruise time
Go to the Victory Rover Dock in Town Point Park
After the cruise, go straight to Winterfest and show them your wristband to enjoy Winterfest at Nauticus!
Thursday, December 18 | Viewing at 9:00PM
Included with your Winterfest ticket for that evening
SOLD OUT
For the first time ever, Winterfest on the Wisconsin is competing on ABC’s hit show The Great Christmas Light Fight — and you’re invited to watch it unfold right here at Nauticus!
Join us for a special viewing party inside the Brock Theater, included at no extra cost with your Winterfest admission for the evening of December 18.
Come cheer, celebrate, and experience the excitement as we compete against two other dazzling holiday displays from across the country!
Showtime: 9:00PM
Location: Brock Theater inside Nauticus
Admission: Included with your Winterfest ticket for Dec. 18
Seating: Limited and first come, first served
Doors will open prior to the broadcast; once seats are filled, the theater will close
A festive, cozy viewing experience after your Winterfest visit
Hot cocoa, treats, and holiday cheer throughout the campus
A chance to watch Winterfest shine on national television
Photo ops and celebration moments before and after the show
Simply purchase your Winterfest ticket for December 18 — no additional reservation is required for the viewing party.
Once inside Winterfest, make your way to the Brock Theater and grab a seat early. Seating is limited and not guaranteed, so plan to arrive well before the 9PM broadcast.
Explore holidays during wartime.
Explore how the holidays were celebrated during wartime as the MacArthur Memorial exhibits special holiday displays including propaganda posters, Christmas trees, and more!
Don’t forget to explore other holiday activities and programs on our calendar, including our Cards for Veterans Programs, Origami Cranes, Visit with Santa, and more!
View our 1,000 paper crane exhibit and learn how to fold your own origami crane to take home!
Come to the MacArthur Memorial Visitor Center during opening hours to learn how to fold your own origami paper crane that you can take home. While you’re here, take a moment at our 1,000 paper crane exhibit created by local Hampton Roads students, inspired by the story of Sadako Sasaki who has become a symbol of peace in a post-WWII world.
This rotating collection of prints by US Army photographer Nicholas Orzio portray the drastic changes experienced by Japan in the immediate years following World War II.
This exhibit presents a rotating set of photographs taken by Nicholas Orzio of the 71st Signal Service Battalion attached to General Headquarters (GHQ) in Tokyo. His service took him across the country from 1948-1949, and his photographs dramatically portray the story of tremendous change during Japan’s recovery from total defeat following WWII.
Entertainment’s Beloved Power-Couple David and Tamela Mann are set to share insight into their 37-year marital love story on their Love & Relationship Tour.
David and Tamela will share their signature blend of love, laughter, and lyrics—inviting audiences to experience an evening filled with heartfelt wisdom, uplifting music, and the hilariously comedic moments that have defined their journey together.
From throwback favorites and popularly stirring ballads such as “Good Love,” “Ups and Downs” and “Take Me To The King” to recent No. 1 singles from the 2026 Grammy® award-nominated album Live Breathe Fight, David and Tamela will perform music together, create a worship experience and reveal behind-the-scenes wisdom from their 37- year marriage as they unpack everything from Hollywood pressure to keeping their love fresh. David will have guests laughing in their seats with comedy and candid conversations about love and relationships.
Join explorer, talk show host, and author Josh Gates from Discovery Channel’s smash-hit series, Expedition Unknown and Josh Gates Tonight for an evening of adventure! Josh will take viewers around the world and off the map with stories from his greatest expeditions and insights into the world’s greatest mysteries. From hilarious misadventures to thrilling moments of discovery, Josh keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
Pre-Show VIP Meet & Greet Add-On
Take your event experience to the next level with an exclusive opportunity to meet Josh Gates in person! This VIP add-on includes a photo opportunity and unforgettable face time with the man himself.
Availability is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot early.
Add-On Price: $125 per person
Start Time: Approximately 5:00 PM
Location: To be determined
The Norfolk Admirals are the local professional hockey team in Hampton Roads, based at Scope Arena in Norfolk, VA. They are a premier organization within the ECHL hockey league, the Winnipeg Jets, and the Manitoba Moose affiliates.
FOUNDED 1989
ECHL: 1989-2000, 2015-PRESENT
AHL: 2001-2015
CHAMPIONSHIPS: ECHL – 1991, 1992, 1998 | AHL – 2012
The team has a history of success on the ice and strives to be a consistent source of pride for the entire Hampton Roads community. For 36 years, the Admirals have provided unforgettable entertainment experiences, growth opportunities for local businesses, and inclusive community outreach programs. For more information on the Norfolk Admirals, please visit norfolkadmirals.com.
The Norfolk Admirals are the local professional hockey team in Hampton Roads, based at Scope Arena in Norfolk, VA. They are a premier organization within the ECHL hockey league, the Winnipeg Jets, and the Manitoba Moose affiliates.
FOUNDED 1989
ECHL: 1989-2000, 2015-PRESENT
AHL: 2001-2015
CHAMPIONSHIPS: ECHL – 1991, 1992, 1998 | AHL – 2012
The team has a history of success on the ice and strives to be a consistent source of pride for the entire Hampton Roads community. For 36 years, the Admirals have provided unforgettable entertainment experiences, growth opportunities for local businesses, and inclusive community outreach programs. For more information on the Norfolk Admirals, please visit norfolkadmirals.com.