Pyrate Fest XVII Brings High-Seas Fun to Put-in-Bay June 27–29

Ahoy, Put-in-Bay! The island’s most swashbuckling weekend returns June 27–29 with Pyrate Fest XVII, a full-blown pirate takeover in the heart of downtown. Now in its 17th year, this beloved event transforms DeRivera Park into a scene straight from the high seas, complete with swordplay, treasure hunts, historical reenactments, and family-friendly mayhem.

Organized by the Put-in-Bay Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Shores & Islands Ohio, this year’s event includes fan-favorite attractions alongside brand-new features like a business decorating contest. All local businesses are encouraged to “get their pyrate on” and compete for best pirate-themed décor — with a special prize to be announced.

Here’s a full preview of the weekend’s standout moments:

Friday, June 27 – Raise the Flag, Start the Crawl

• 4:00 PM – Opening Flag Ceremony
  Pyrate Fest kicks off with an official flag raising and booming celebration at the Pyrate Stage in DeRivera Park & Harbor. It’s the call to adventure to open the weekend.

• 4:30 PM – Pub Crawl Registration Opens
  Set up in front of the Park Hotel, adult buccaneers (21+) can register for the 5th Annual Pyrate Pub Crawl, presented by Malibu Rum.

• 5:00–8:00 PM – Pyrate Pub Crawl
  $45 (cash only) scores you six rum-inspired drinks from island bars like The Round House, Mojito Bay, and The Blue Duck at Pasquale’s — plus a free shirt, swag, and prizes.

Saturday, June 28 – Full Day of Mayhem and Magic

The heart of Pyrate Fest beats all day Saturday, with non-stop action across DeRivera Park. Here’s a breakdown of the day’s main events:

• 10 AM to 5 PM – Pyrate Encampment & Marketplace
  A living history experience with reenactors, vendors, blacksmithing, leather work, and 1700s pirate life demonstrations.

• 10 AM to Noon – Kids’ Activities at the Pyrate Kid Zone
  Join the Krew of the Black Pearl for crafts, games, and adventures in the park.

• 11 AM, 2 PM, 4:30 PM – Magician Rodney the Conjurer
  Enjoy 1700s-style illusions performed with antique props at the Encampment & Marketplace.

• Noon to 3 PM – Poker Quest
  A pirate-style poker run and treasure hunt with trivia and tasks. Free to join, open to all ages, and prizes await.

• Noon – “Mischief Impossible!” Live Stage Show
  Comedy, swordplay, and mayhem at the Pyrate Stage with Theatrical Combat Network.

• 1 PM & 4 PM – Enlisted 1812 Soldier Demonstrations
  Learn how early soldiers trained and fought, presented by the National Park Service at the Cannon Firing Area.

• 2 PM – “How To Fight Like a Hollywood Pyrate”
  A hands-on, interactive swordplay class for ages 13 and up, led by theatrical combat experts.

• 3 PM – Kids Kraft Time
  Creative fun with the Black Pearl Krew.

• 6 PM – Adult Buccaneers Ball at Reel Bar
  Pirate costumes, music, drink specials, and a 21+ crowd. Registration for the costume contest starts at 5:30 PM.

Sunday, June 29 – Mermaids, Magic, and a Parade

• 10 AM to 5 PM – Encampment & Marketplace Remain Open
  More time to shop, explore, and meet the reenactors.

• 11 AM to 4 PM – Mermaid Tami Returns
  Meet a real live mermaid! She’ll be available for photos at the Pyrate Encampment both Saturday and Sunday.

• Magic Shows at 11 AM, 12:30 PM, and 2:30 PM
  Rodney the Conjurer continues to amaze with his antique magic.

• Swordplay Shows at Noon and 2 PM
  “Mischief Impossible!” returns with more live-action comedy and fights.

• 1 PM – Treasure Hunt for Kids
  Another chance for young pirates to seek out treasure in the Kid Zone.

• 3 PM – Kids Kraft Time
  One last round of creative fun with the Black Pearl Krew.

• 3:30 PM – Antique Car Parade
  The weekend ends with a charming drive-through of classic cars in downtown Put-in-Bay.

Extra Notes:

• A separate adults-only pirate-themed party will take place Saturday night at the Pirate Ship Bar and Fire Truck Bar. This is not part of the official Chamber programming.

• Also happening that weekend: the 2025 Battle at the Bay, Flag Football Tournament. Click here for full details.

Plan Your Attack

Visitors are encouraged to dress the part, bring their crew, and enjoy a weekend of immersive fun. For lodging and transportation info, or to see the full event schedule, visit visitputinbay.com.

Get your pyrate on — Put-in-Bay awaits.