Carnival Marks America's 250th Anniversary with Celebration on Radiance

Carnival Cruise Line celebrated America’s 250th anniversary with a patriotic event aboard the Carnival Radiance on June 30 while the ship was docked at the Port of Long Beach, California.

The cruise line welcomed veterans, local community partners, business representatives, government officials, and other invited guests to take part in the celebration.

According to a company press release, the event marked the beginning of Carnival’s series of America250 celebrations that will be held in its homeport communities across the country.

As America’s cruise line, we’re proud to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary in our homeport cities,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “We’re bringing people together to honor our nation, celebrate the local community and thank those who protect our freedom.”

Passengers boarding the Carnival Radiance were greeted by a giant 40-foot inflatable star in red, white, and blue displayed on the ship’s top deck. The event also featured a special military tribute honoring active-duty service members, local veterans, and first responders who attended the celebration. As part of the ceremony, every member of the military received a specially designed limited-edition America250 challenge coin.