Events

The USS EDSON officially opens for the 2026 season on April 1st! Regular touring resumes, giving you the chance to explore this historic naval destroyer and experience a journey through time. Step aboard and walk the decks of this legendary Forrest Sherman-Class Destroyer. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a military buff, or just looking for a unique adventure, the USS EDSON offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. What to Expect This Season: Self-guided and guided tours available Interactive exhibits and historical displays Special programs and upcoming events throughout the year Paranormal investigations, overnight stays, and group tours Be among the first to tour the USS EDSON in 2026! Gather your family, friends, or group and start your adventure with us this season.

WHAT IS OUTBOUND HOPE? The Outbound Hope Mission is a multi-day, live-action role playing event intended to give players the realistic, immersive experience of being aboard a space-bound starship. Hosted within the interior of the decommissioned USS Edson in Bay City, MI, players will be engaged in four days of exciting science-fiction adventures and missions. For the duration of the event, the  Edson will be outfitted to serve as the Flame of Liberty, a 23rd-century starship proudly leading a fleet of colonists in the unknowns of space. With a crew of more than 100 individuals, players will need to work together to fulfill duties and objectives unique to their character.   THE STORY SO FAR In November of 2019, more than 200 daring participants braved bitter temperatures to join us for our first Outbound Hope events. There, players served as the crew of the Ascendant Dawn, the legendary flagship of the Outbound fleet. Despite great success, the international pandemic prevented our 2020 return for Season Two and presented severe challenges thereafter. Now, Windfall Entertainment, LLC finally invites players back to the USS Edson. Restarting our story from the launch of the mission, join us as we begin the new and original story of the Flame of Liberty — another proud vessel of the colonial fleet. With an all new ship, new characters and new adventures to be had, Outbound Hope is back… bigger an bolder than ever before!   WHAT IS A LARP? The Outbound Hope Mission is a live-action roleplaying game, commonly referred to as a “larp.” For participants unfamiliar with this style of gameplay, it is easily comparable to many popular tabletop games or video game RPG’s– but with a powerful element of full immersion and a tangible environment. As in a murder mystery event, a player is physically present in a space and actively participating in the events around them. Because of this, participants should expect full and active immersion into a fictional world. Players will be able to embody characters and allow them to experience a world of adventure and excitement. As a member of the Outbound Fleet, your decisions will direct your path, and your actions may dramatically impact those around you – including the ship as a whole.  

WHAT IS OUTBOUND HOPE? The Outbound Hope Mission is a multi-day, live-action role playing event intended to give players the realistic, immersive experience of being aboard a space-bound starship. Hosted within the interior of the decommissioned USS Edson in Bay City, MI, players will be engaged in four days of exciting science-fiction adventures and missions. For the duration of the event, the  Edson will be outfitted to serve as the Flame of Liberty, a 23rd-century starship proudly leading a fleet of colonists in the unknowns of space. With a crew of more than 100 individuals, players will need to work together to fulfill duties and objectives unique to their character.   THE STORY SO FAR In November of 2019, more than 200 daring participants braved bitter temperatures to join us for our first Outbound Hope events. There, players served as the crew of the Ascendant Dawn, the legendary flagship of the Outbound fleet. Despite great success, the international pandemic prevented our 2020 return for Season Two and presented severe challenges thereafter. Now, Windfall Entertainment, LLC finally invites players back to the USS Edson. Restarting our story from the launch of the mission, join us as we begin the new and original story of the Flame of Liberty — another proud vessel of the colonial fleet. With an all new ship, new characters and new adventures to be had, Outbound Hope is back… bigger an bolder than ever before!   WHAT IS A LARP? The Outbound Hope Mission is a live-action roleplaying game, commonly referred to as a “larp.” For participants unfamiliar with this style of gameplay, it is easily comparable to many popular tabletop games or video game RPG’s– but with a powerful element of full immersion and a tangible environment. As in a murder mystery event, a player is physically present in a space and actively participating in the events around them. Because of this, participants should expect full and active immersion into a fictional world. Players will be able to embody characters and allow them to experience a world of adventure and excitement. As a member of the Outbound Fleet, your decisions will direct your path, and your actions may dramatically impact those around you – including the ship as a whole.  

Celebrate Independence Day with us aboard the USS EDSON for a thrilling Salute from Our Ship! Witness the power and history of our cannon as we honor our nation’s birthday with an unforgettable naval tribute. Event Details: Date: July 4, 2026 Time: Cannon fires at 12:00 PM Location: Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum Experience the pride, power, and patriotism of a naval salute right here in the Great Lakes Bay region! Bring your family and friends and make this 4th of July one to remember aboard a historic destroyer.

More details to be provided soon!

All hands on deck! Join us for August Field Week at the Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum from August 3rd to August 7th and help us keep the USS EDSON looking her best! This is your chance to roll up your sleeves, get involved, and make a real impact on preserving a historic naval destroyer. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or new to ship restoration, we have tasks for all skill levels. Your time and effort help ensure that this incredible piece of history remains in top condition for visitors, veterans, and future generations to enjoy. How You Can Help: Painting & Touch-Ups – Refresh the ship’s exterior and interior Cleaning & Maintenance – Keep passageways, exhibits, and displays in top shape Minor Repairs – Assist with restoration and upkeep projects Groundskeeping – Help maintain the museum’s outdoor areas Why Volunteer? Give back to a historic naval treasure Gain hands-on restoration experience Meet and work alongside fellow history enthusiasts Enjoy a fun and rewarding experience No Charge for Volunteers There is no charge to participate during Field Week for those volunteering their time. Your hard work and dedication are what make this event possible, and we are grateful for every helping hand. Can’t Volunteer? If you’re unable to join us in person, you can still make a meaningful impact. Donations go a long way in supporting the USS EDSON and the Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum. Your financial support helps fund restoration materials, preservation efforts, and ongoing maintenance to keep this historic destroyer shipshape for years to come. Whether you give your time or make a donation, you are helping preserve an important piece of naval history. We hope to see you on deck!   Signup to Volunteer!

Thunder Rally in Saginaw Valley is a family-friendly, public motorcycle event featuring tent camping, food and merchandise vendors, service vendors, a beer tent, and live live music throughout the weekend. Created to honor past and current U.S. military service members, Thunder Rally brings the community together for a weekend of celebration while raising funds for the Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum. We welcome Michigan-based U.S. military 501(c)(3) organizations to participate. Please email [email protected] to learn how your organization can be involved at a very low cost—or possibly no cost at all. A limited number of overnight bunks aboard the USS Edson are available exclusively for U.S. military veterans. To be considered for a stay on the ship, please email [email protected]. Event details will be added as they become available, so be sure to follow this page for updates. Vendors: Please email [email protected] for participation information.

Join us on September 11, 2026, as we honor and remember the heroes of 9/11 with a special Salute aboard the USS EDSON at the Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum. This meaningful event invites community members to participate in a tribute of respect, reflection, and remembrance for the brave first responders, military personnel, and civilians affected by the events of September 11, 2001. Take part in a solemn flag ceremony, learn about the significance of service and sacrifice, and stand in unity with others to honor this important day in history. More details are coming soon—stay tuned for event schedules and participation information.

Dare to step aboard the USS EDSON after dark? The Edson Incident returns for another season of terror, kicking off with Opening Night on September 25 from 8:00 PM to Midnight! Prepare yourself for an intense, heart-pounding haunted experience as the historic destroyer transforms into one of Michigan’s most terrifying paranormal attractions. Navigate the eerie corridors, encounter restless spirits, and face the unknown—if you dare. This is just the beginning of a thrilling season of scares, and you won’t want to miss out! More details coming soon. In the meantime, visit EdsonIncident.com for updates, tickets, and more information. Date: September 25, 2026 Time: 8:00 PM – Midnight Location: USS EDSON – Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum Details & Tickets: EdsonIncident.com Are you brave enough to face the Edson Incident?

Dare to step aboard the USS EDSON after dark? The Edson Incident returns for another season of terror, on September 26 from 7:00 PM to Midnight! Prepare yourself for an intense, heart-pounding haunted experience as the historic destroyer transforms into one of Michigan’s most terrifying paranormal attractions. Navigate the eerie corridors, encounter restless spirits, and face the unknown—if you dare. This is just the beginning of a thrilling season of scares, and you won’t want to miss out! More details coming soon. In the meantime, visit EdsonIncident.com for updates, tickets, and more information. Date: September 26, 2026 Time: 7:00 PM – Midnight Location: USS EDSON – Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum Details & Tickets: EdsonIncident.com Are you brave enough to face the Edson Incident?

Dare to step aboard the USS EDSON after dark? The Edson Incident returns for another season of terror, on October 2 from 8:00 PM to Midnight! Prepare yourself for an intense, heart-pounding haunted experience as the historic destroyer transforms into one of Michigan’s most terrifying paranormal attractions. Navigate the eerie corridors, encounter restless spirits, and face the unknown—if you dare. This is just the beginning of a thrilling season of scares, and you won’t want to miss out! More details coming soon. In the meantime, visit EdsonIncident.com for updates, tickets, and more information. Date: October 2, 2026 Time: 8:00 PM – Midnight Location: USS EDSON – Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum Details & Tickets: EdsonIncident.com Are you brave enough to face the Edson Incident?