US Naval Academy Commissioning Week Events
Commissioning Week is one of the busiest and most exciting weeks of the year in Annapolis, Md. Each year the United States Naval Academy honors the upcoming graduation of the Senior Class of Midshipmen. The week begins with traditional and celebratory events on May 19th, 2017 followed by the graduation ceremony on May 26th, 2017. Here is a list of noteworthy, can’t-miss events taking place during Commissioning Week 2017.
Blue Angels Flight Demonstration
The Blue Angels flyover is a notorious live event that everyone, not just Maryland locals, should witness at least once in their lifetime. Thousands of people gather on the Severn River, some even arrive by boat, to see the beautiful, aerial show put on by the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squad. Additionally, crowds can opt to come out on separate days to see the flight rehearsal (May 23rd at 11 a.m.), the flight display (May 24th at 1:45 p.m.), or the time-honored graduation flyover (May 26th at 10 a.m.). The prime viewing spots include the USNA campus, the WWII Monument, and needless to say, the water.
Color Parade
The annual Color Parade honors the fall and spring color companies. It takes place on May 25, 2017, at 11 a.m. at Worden Field. Interestingly, the parade first started in 1867, and it is the oldest parade at the U.S. Naval Academy. Subsequently, First Class (Senior) Midshipmen look forward to this event as it is the last parade of the year and their last full dress parade while at the academy. The Brigade of Midshipmen marches from Bancroft Hall to the Naval Academy parade field, and they are joined by the Naval Academy Band and the midshipmen Drum & Bugle Corps. The event is open to the public, and it is free to attend.
Graduation Ceremony
It’s the moment we’ve all been waiting for. The commencement ceremony starts at 10 a.m. on May 26, 2017, at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. However, admission to the graduation ceremony is invitation-only, as it is limited to family and friends of the graduating class, VIP’s, and special guests. The Blue Angels will also do a flyover during the ceremony, around 10:04 a.m.
For a full list of the events, visit the US Naval Academy website. And, make sure to stop by Naval Bagels on your way to the festivities!
