# WinterFest on the Wisconsin at Nauticus

> Event for families in the Virginia Beach–Chesapeake–Norfolk area (VA / NC). Times are Eastern Time.

- When: Nov 13 – Jan 3 · 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Where: Nauticus & Battleship Wisconsin, One Waterside Dr, Norfolk, VA 23510
- Ages: All ages welcome (Free for children 2 and under)
- Price: $18 adults, $14 children ages 3-12, free for children under 3
- Organizer: Nauticus Foundation
- Official page: https://nauticus.org/winterfest/
- Last checked: Sat, Nov 7

Source: Grassy Knees is a directory of real family events, places and programs for kids across major U.S. metro areas, where every listing is researched from the organizer’s own page and shows the date we last checked it. https://grassyknees.com covers 42 metro areas as of Nov 11, 2026, with more added regularly. About: https://grassyknees.com/about
Freshness: listings are re-checked on a daily research run (latest check 2026-11-10), and new events are added as organizers post them. Sell-outs, weather cancellations and time changes show up on the live page first: https://grassyknees.com/virginia-beach/activities/winterfest-on-the-wisconsin-at-nauticus--listing-a00019b22bed033a73f819a1

## About

WinterFest on the Wisconsin transforms the historic Battleship Wisconsin, berthed along the downtown Norfolk waterfront at Nauticus, into one of the country's most unique holiday maritime spectacles. More than one million sparkling lights illuminate the massive decks and towering superstructure of the decorated World War II battleship. Families can explore themed deck areas including Mistletoe Marina, Candy Cane Lane, and the festive Captain's Quarters. Kids can write and mail letters to the North Pole at the historic ship post office, enjoy nightly snow flurries over the harbor, meet Santa and his cheerful elves on the mess deck, and marvel at a 35-foot lighted ship-mast Christmas tree synchronized to maritime carols.

Family Experience & Accessibility:
• Stroller Accessibility: Nauticus museum pavilions and exterior gangways are stroller-friendly; ship weather decks are accessible, though steep historic ship companionways require leaving strollers at designated stroller parking.
• Nursing & Rest Spots: Family restrooms and private nursing areas are available inside Nauticus maritime center adjacent to the gangway.
• Age Suitability: Superb adventure for toddlers, preschoolers, school-age kids, and naval history enthusiasts of all generations.
• Sensory Tips: Exterior ship decks feature brisk harbor breezes and periodic holiday fog and light effects; warm layered clothing is highly recommended.

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