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Capitol Hill Ocean Week 2026: Celebrating Two Milestones

The Capitol Hill Ocean Week (CHOW) is set to make a splash this year, as it proudly celebrates its 25th anniversary in conjunction with the nation's 250th anniversary. The event, organized by the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, is to be held from June 2-4, 2026, in Washington, D.C., and will also be accessible online. This premier conference will bring together a diverse group of attendees, including policymakers, scientists, conservationists, and youth leaders to engage in discussions centered around the pressing issues that face America’s oceans, coasts, and Great Lakes.

Themed "Voyages and Breakthroughs,” CHOW 2026 will emphasize the significance of the ocean and Great Lakes in shaping the country’s history through exploration and stewardship. As Joel R. Johnson, President and CEO of the Foundation, noted, this event represents a rare opportunity to reflect on the integral role these waters and coastal communities play in both America’s past and future.

Conference Highlights

The two-day event will kick off with keynote speeches and plenary sessions that feature prominent figures such as leaders from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, notable explorers, Indigenous leaders, and industry innovators. Topics to be covered include:
America’s marine heritage
Restoration and resilience efforts
The future of seafood and working waterfronts
Innovations in ocean technology
* The next era of exploration

Noteworthy speakers will include:

• - Nainoa Thompson, Pwo Navigator and CEO of the Polynesian Voyaging Society
• - James P. Delgado, Ph.D., Senior Advisor for Cultural Heritage at The Ocean Foundation
• - Cathy Green, Executive Director of the National Maritime Historical Society
• - Howard Hoege, President and CEO of The Mariners' Museum and Park
• - Spenser Jaimes, Board Member of Ocean Origins
• - Chris Ostrander, CEO of the Marine Technology Society
• - Justin Dunnavant, Ph.D., of UCLA

On the evening of June 2, the event will also host the Ocean Awards, which celebrate champions of the ocean and Great Lakes. Honorees for this year include:

• - Lifetime Achievement Award: Dr. James P. Delgado, recognized for his exceptional contributions to ocean conservation and exploration.
• - Conservation Innovation Award: Viking, acknowledged for its leadership and creativity in marine conservation.
• - Maritime Heritage Distinguished Service Award: Awarded by the National Maritime Historical Society to recognize outstanding contributions to the maritime field.

If you're interested in attending the Ocean Awards, individual tickets will be available for purchase in May.

Engaging with Policymakers

CHOW will conclude with Hill Day on June 4, providing participants with an opportunity to engage directly with Congress. This essential part of the event aims to promote policies supporting healthy oceans and communities dependent on these vital ecosystems. Attendees will have chances for constituent meetings and congressional briefings to further advocacy efforts.

Registration for the CHOW conference is free and open to the public, both for in-person and virtual attendance, and sponsorship opportunities are still available for businesses and organizations wishing to support ocean conservation efforts.

To register, purchase tickets, or stay updated on the event, please visit capitolhilloceanweek.org.

About National Marine Sanctuary Foundation

Founded in 2000, the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation is the official non-profit partner of NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries. The Foundation supports a network of protected marine areas across the United States, striving to preserve marine wildlife, habitats, and the cultural heritage connected to our oceans and lakes. As we move into a new era of conservation, the Foundation continues to champion the understanding and enjoyment of these vital natural resources.