Celebrating Milestones: 30 Years of Charleston Race Week and 50 Years of Patriots Point

Join us in 2026 as Charleston Race Week celebrates 30 years at Patriots Point alongside the 50th anniversary of Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, honoring naval history and our nation’s heroes.

Charleston / Mt. Pleasant, SC (2025 October 1) - 2026 is shaping up to be a year of celebration at Patriots Point! Not only will we mark our 30th anniversary of racing on Charleston Harbor, but our longtime partner, the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, will also celebrate 50 years of preserving naval history and honoring our nation’s heroes.

Since opening in 1976, Patriots Point has welcomed nearly 15 million visitors to explore the USS Yorktown, USS Laffey, and the Vietnam Experience. The museum has provided a living connection to naval history, educating students through STEM programs, hosting veterans' reunions, and inspiring all who visit — including sailboat and yacht racers from all over the world — to appreciate the courage and sacrifice of those who served.

In partnership with The Post and Courier, Patriots Point will publish a commemorative publication in early 2026. This special edition will highlight five decades of history, including profiles of veterans, educational initiatives, restoration projects, and the museum’s vision for the future.

As we celebrate 30 years of sailing excellence and 50 years of naval heritage, we invite our racers, partners, and sponsors to appreciate the significance of this milestone year at Patriots Point. While enjoying Charleston Race Week’s shoreside festivities—including parties, live music, and complimentary Mount Gay Rum—attendees also have full access to the museum’s exhibits and displays. Explore the USS Yorktown’s flight deck, wander through historic spaces, and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this living museum, where history comes alive at every turn.