A 100 year-old Mardi Grad tradition continues in Mobile but with an ironic twist. Admiral Farragut will not be attacking this time.

The USS Farragut, Mobile’s 2026 Mardi Gras ship, will arrive at the Mobile Ship Channel on February 13.

The Arleigh Burke-class, multi-mission destroyer, with the motto, “Prepared for Battle,” has a special place in Alabama history. Brian Campbell, a retired U.S. Navy commander, serves as the Navy League’s Mardi Gras liaison, explained.

“Admiral David Glasgow Farragut played a defining role in the Battle of Mobile Bay in August 1864, one of the most consequential naval engagements of the Civil War,” Campbell said. “His bold command — famously remembered as ‘Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!’ — led Union forces through a heavily mined channel and secured a decisive victory that closed the Port of Mobile. His leadership, decisiveness and courage remain hallmarks of U.S. naval heritage.”

The Mobile Council of the Navy League of the United States, the City of Mobile, and the Alabama Port Authority will host a welcoming celebration, along with JROTC students, USS Alabama Shipmates, Azalea Trail Maids, and the Blow House Brass Band.

Anticipated arrival in port is 10 a.m.

The welcoming of a Mardi Gras ship is a Mobile tradition that dates back over 100 years.

“Just like Mardi Gras, shipbuilding and our long relationship with the Navy are a part of Mobile’s identity,” Mayor Spiro Cheriogotis said. “We’re proud of both traditions and excited to celebrate them together as we welcome the USS Farragut and its sailors to the home of America’s first and best Carnival celebrations.”

The USS Farragut will be open for public tours from February 14 through February 17.