If you’ve ever wondered when is the Marine Corps Birthday, the answer is proudly celebrated every year on November 10th. It’s not just a date—it’s a symbol of 250 years of courage, tradition, and brotherhood within the United States Marine Corps. In 2025, the Marine Corps marks its 250th anniversary, making this year’s celebration one of the most historic milestones in American military history.
The Origin of the Marine Corps Birthday
The Marine Corps was born on November 10, 1775, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. During the early days of the American Revolution, the Second Continental Congress passed a resolution to establish two battalions of Marines to serve alongside the Continental Navy. Their mission was clear: protect ships, engage in amphibious warfare, and serve as an elite fighting force.
Though the Marines were temporarily disbanded after the Revolutionary War, they were officially re-established in 1798. Centuries later, in 1921, Major General John A. Lejeune issued Marine Corps Order No. 47, formally recognizing November 10th as the official Marine Corps Birthday. Since then, this date has been celebrated by Marines and their families across the world every single year.
Why November 10th Matters
For Marines, November 10th is more than a date—it’s a legacy. The Marine Corps Birthday connects generations of Marines, from those who fought in the early battles of the American Revolution to those serving in modern conflicts around the globe.
Each year on this day, Marines pause to honor their history, remember their fallen brothers and sisters, and reaffirm their commitment to the Corps’ core values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment. Whether on base, at sea, or deployed overseas, Marines find a way to celebrate this day with pride and purpose.
How the Marine Corps Birthday Is Celebrated
The Marine Corps Birthday is filled with ceremony, tradition, and reflection. Every Marine, regardless of rank or duty station, celebrates the day with the same sense of pride and respect.
1. The Marine Corps Birthday Ball
The most iconic event is the Marine Corps Birthday Ball, held at bases, embassies, and Marine detachments around the world. Marines wear their dress uniforms, and the evening features formal speeches, toasts, and a reflection on the Corps’ achievements.
The Commandant of the Marine Corps delivers an official birthday message that is played at every celebration. This message honors the sacrifices of Marines throughout history and challenges current Marines to continue their legacy.
2. The Cake-Cutting Ceremony
One of the most symbolic moments is the cake-cutting ceremony. A ceremonial sword is used to cut the birthday cake—symbolizing the Marines’ warrior spirit. The first slice is given to the guest of honor, and the second is passed from the oldest Marine present to the youngest Marine. This act represents the transfer of experience, wisdom, and duty from one generation to the next.
3. Unit Runs and Parades
Many Marine units start the day with formation runs, drills, or parades. It’s a spirited way to unite the Corps in camaraderie and discipline while reminding everyone of their shared bond.
Marine Corps Birthday 2025: 250 Years of Service
The 250th Marine Corps Birthday in 2025 is an extraordinary milestone. It celebrates not only the Marine Corps’ long history but also its adaptability and unwavering commitment to defending the nation.
In 2025, celebrations across the country are expected to be larger than ever. Major Marine installations such as Camp Lejeune, Quantico, Pendleton, and Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., are hosting elaborate ceremonies. These events include flyovers, concerts, and public displays that highlight the Corps’ evolution from its 18th-century roots to a 21st-century fighting force.
Even overseas, Marines serving far from home will mark November 10th with pride. Whether in training or on deployment, every Marine finds a way to celebrate—even if it means cutting a cake in a remote outpost.
Traditions That Never Fade
The Marine Corps has many traditions, but few are as enduring as the birthday celebration. These customs remind Marines of who they are, where they came from, and what they stand for.
- The Commandant’s Message: Each year, the Commandant delivers an inspiring message to all Marines, emphasizing unity, pride, and remembrance.
- The Marine Hymn: “From the Halls of Montezuma to the Shores of Tripoli” is sung with pride at every birthday event.
- The Toasts: Marines raise their glasses to honor fallen comrades and to celebrate those still serving.
These timeless gestures give the Marine Corps Birthday its heart and soul.
Why the Marine Corps Birthday Resonates with All Americans
You don’t have to be a Marine to appreciate the importance of November 10th. The Marine Corps Birthday is a celebration of American strength, patriotism, and perseverance. For 250 years, Marines have been the first to fight—protecting the freedoms and values the nation holds dear.
From the beaches of Iwo Jima to the deserts of Iraq and the mountains of Afghanistan, Marines have carried their motto “Semper Fidelis” (Always Faithful) with pride. Every American who values courage and service can take pride in the Marines’ contributions.
Communities across the United States often join in the celebration, hosting parades, community dinners, and recognition events to thank Marines for their service.
The Modern Marine Corps: Then and Now
The Marine Corps of 2025 is vastly different from the one founded in 1775—but its core mission remains unchanged: to protect and defend the United States at home and abroad.
Today’s Marines are leaders in global security, humanitarian aid, and modern defense technology. They train with advanced weapons, operate state-of-the-art amphibious vehicles, and are often the first to respond during global crises.
Even with this modernization, the Marine Corps’ foundation in discipline, teamwork, and loyalty has never wavered. That’s what makes the birthday celebration so meaningful—it honors both the past and the present, binding all Marines across generations.
Fun Facts About the Marine Corps Birthday
To make the celebration even more special, here are some fascinating facts about the Marine Corps Birthday:
- Founded at Tun Tavern: The Marine Corps’ birthplace is Tun Tavern in Philadelphia, where the first Marines enlisted in 1775.
- Oldest Marine Corps Ball: The first official Marine Corps Ball was held in 1925, four years after the date became officially recognized.
- Global Tradition: Marines stationed worldwide—from ships to embassies—celebrate November 10th, even in combat zones.
- Uniforms and Heritage: At the birthday ball, Marines wear their most formal uniforms, symbolizing pride in their history.
- Oldest and Youngest Marines: The cake-cutting ceremony’s most honored tradition continues at every celebration, uniting generations.
What Civilians Can Do to Honor the Day
You don’t need to wear a uniform to join in celebrating the Marine Corps Birthday. Here’s how you can honor Marines on November 10th:
- Attend local Marine Corps events or parades.
- Visit a veterans’ organization or thank a Marine personally.
- Post a message of appreciation on social media using hashtags like #MarineCorpsBirthday or #SemperFi.
- Learn about Marine Corps history or visit a Marine Corps museum.
- Take a moment of silence to remember those who gave their lives for freedom.
A simple “Thank you for your service” can mean the world to a Marine—past or present.
The Spirit of “Semper Fidelis”
The phrase “Semper Fidelis”, Latin for “Always Faithful,” is more than just a motto—it’s a way of life. Every Marine, whether active-duty or veteran, lives by it. It represents loyalty to the Corps, to fellow Marines, and to the nation.
That enduring spirit is what makes the Marine Corps Birthday such a powerful event. It’s not just about remembering history—it’s about celebrating the values that keep the Corps strong after 250 years.
Conclusion
So, when is the Marine Corps Birthday? It’s celebrated every November 10th, a date that honors the birth of America’s most storied fighting force. In 2025, as the Marine Corps reaches its 250th anniversary, the celebration stands as a tribute to courage, sacrifice, and unbreakable brotherhood.
From Tun Tavern in 1775 to today’s modern Marine bases, the spirit of the Corps remains unshaken. Every Marine knows that November 10th isn’t just a birthday—it’s a promise. A promise to stay “Always Faithful.”
How will you honor the Marines on their 250th birthday? Share your message of appreciation below and celebrate those who defend our nation with pride and devotion.