OpSail 2012 Virginia™

  • Elizabeth River scene

    The great Naval ships that historically visited Virginia's ports regularly will once again return in the summer of 2012. They will not  be alone as the Elizabeth River will swell with modern naval ships, fireboats, yachts and many other onlookers.

    Into the Sunset

    Events will range from the traditional Parades of Sail, ship tours, spectacular fireworks, concerts and festivals, educational events  and programs, Adopt a Ship opportunities, crew sporting events and more.

    Tall ship docked

    The historic tall ships of America's past are even more impressive up close. Don't miss a chance to go aboard and see what true sailing is all about.

    Rigging

    At OpSail 2012 Virginia™, get on board a classic American Tall ship and experience what it was like to make these massive vessels go with only the wind in their sails.

    Sailors

    A commemoration of the War of 1812, the important mission of the US Navy will be recognized as OpSail 2012 Virginia celebrates the contributions the Navy has made in the building of our country while educating visitors on the important battles and historic events that took place here.

    logo

    Tall ships are coming to Norfolk, Virginia! Over 20 ships from countries around the world have been invited to Norfolk’s waterfront for this spectacular event. Operation Sail, Inc. (OpSail) and the U.S. Navy will commemorate the bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the birth of The Star-Spangled Banner in conjunction with Norfolk’s annual Harborfest.

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  • Tall ships are coming to Norfolk, Virginia! Over 20 ships from countries around the world have been invited to Norfolk’s waterfront for this spectacular event. Operation Sail, Inc. (OpSail) and the U.S. Navy will commemorate the bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the birth of The Star-Spangled Banner in conjunction with Norfolk’s annual Harborfest.

    Events will range from the traditional Parades of Sail, ship tours, spectacular fireworks, concerts and festivals, educational events and programs, Adopt a Ship opportunities, crew sporting events and more planned along Virginia's Waterfronts and in many Virginia communities.

    Virginia Green Logo

    OpSail 2012 Virginia is a registered Virginia Green Event. Visitors can expect to see recycling and other green practices in place at all OpSail-related festivals and events. 

  • OpSail Experiences

    Harborfest

    Norfolk Harborfest

    Tall ships are just one part of Norfolk's annual Harborfest. One of Hampton Roads' largest dockside festivals, this family-friendly event features everything from wine-tasting to pirates to spectacular fireworks. This year Harborfest will also feature over 130 hours of live entertainment on multiple stages.

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    Tall Ships Eastern Shore Experience

    Tall Ships Cape Charles

    Hampton Roads isn't the only Virginia region celebrating the arrival of Tall Ships. Just across the famous Chesapeake Bay Bridge on the Eastern Shore, the idyllic town of Cape Charles is planning a full 5 day celebration of Tall Ships. The event will host a number of sailing vessels as well as numerous modern Navy ships.

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    ValleyFest - Shenandoah Valley Beer & Wine Festival

    9 Summer Wine Festivals to LOVE

    May 22, 2013

    Cheers to summer! If wine festivals strike your fancy, we have quite a list for you – one you’re sure to LOVE. Get your weekend ...

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    Sunset at Bubba’s

    Great Virginia Patio Dining

    May 17, 2013

    Warm Virginia evenings are perfect for a number of things, but patio dining is one of the best. Find a place that has just what you want to ...

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    Fishing with New River Trips

    Go Fish!

    May 15, 2013

    If you love to fish, you’re going to love Virginia. From streams, creeks, rivers, ponds, lakes and bays to all-out saltwater ...

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    St. Stephen's Strawberry Festival

    Mmm! Food Festivals!

    May 10, 2013

    If you’ve been looking for a tasty way to spend a Saturday, look no further. It’s strawberry season and that’s just the ...

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    Hickory Hill Vineyards Vineyards & Winery, Moneta

    May 11 is Wine Tourism Day

    May 09, 2013

    Every day is wine tourism day in Virginia, but May 11, 2013 is the inaugural Wine Tourism Day in North America. Let’s celebrate! ...

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