Enjoy Dazzling Christmas Lights Aboard the USS Wisconsin in Norfolk

A historic battleship isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when most people think of Christmas, but the USS Wisconsin in Norfolk, Virginia, hosts an annual event known as Nauticus’ Winterfest on the Wisconsin that transforms a decommissioned battleship into a hub of holiday cheer.

Initially constructed in 1941, the USS Wisconsin saw numerous conflicts, including battles in World War II, the Korean War, and Desert Storm. After the USS Wisconsin was permanently decommissioned, she was docked at the National Maritime Center—also known as Nauticus—in Norfolk, Virginia. Every December, the staff of Nauticus decks out the USS Wisconsin in colorful lights and other seasonal decorations so that the residents of Norfolk can get holly and jolly aboard one of the most celebrated historic battleships in the United States.

During the month of December, the USS Wisconsin is adorned with over a million lights. Visitors can stroll among twinkling icicles, Christmas trees, and red ribbons. There is even an illuminated tunnel and a sparkling footbridge. The gray battleship temporarily becomes a colorful winter wonderland that resembles a technicolor forest. Revelers can swing by the Mistletoe Marina for a cocktail such as a Miracle on Bourbon Street or a virgin hot cocoa. The Mistletoe Marina also features a Waterfront S’mores Station where you can get warm and cozy next to a toasty fire and enjoy a delicious sweet treat.

Nauticus’ Winterfest on the Wisconsin also features live entertainment at the Nauticus Museum, such as a puppet show, a circus, and a meet-and-greet with Santa. After giving your wish list to Santa and getting your picture taken, you can visit a talking tree and enjoy a fanciful train display. Visitors can also tour portions of the interior of the USS Wisconsin. The battleship’s historic decks feature seasonal decorations such as Christmas trees. Every inch of the USS Wisconsin is bursting with holiday cheer.

For a small fee, you can purchase a ticket to Nauticus’ Winterfest on the Wisconsin and experience some memorable holiday joy. Children 2 and under can enter for free, and members of the military and large parties can purchase discounted tickets. No holiday season is complete without wandering through an illuminated winter wonderland. You may even experience a few snow flurries as you sip hot cocoa at the Mistletoe Marina. You’ll never look at a battleship the same after celebrating the holidays aboard the USS Wisconsin.