Set Sail for Adventure at the Put-in-Bay Pyrate Fest!
Date: Summer 2025 (Official Schedule TBA) | Location: Downtown Put-in-Bay & DeRivera Park
For over a decade, the tranquil harbor of Put-in-Bay has transformed into a bustling pirate port every summer as costumed swashbucklers storm the downtown shoreline for the highly anticipated Put-in-Bay Pyrate Fest. The festival kicks off Friday at 4:00 PM with an exciting harbor invasion. Picture it—pirates dropping anchor, cannons firing, flags flying, and kids pointing in awe as Captain Jack Sparrow and his band of misfits land ashore. Don’t forget your pirate hat, wooden leg, and trusty parrot — they might just help you fit in!
The excitement continues all weekend with events designed for both young buccaneers and the young at heart. Saturday features a vibrant pirate parade, engaging children’s games, and the always-entertaining Best Pirate Costume Contest. This isn’t just about fun — the winner of the adult costume contest sails away with a grand prize: a trip to the Cayman Islands! Whether you’re a landlubber or a seasoned sailor, you’ll want to dive headfirst into this immersive island experience.
Need A Place To Stay For This Event? Check Out Our Favorites!
Don’t wait too long to book your stay — this is one of Put-in-Bay’s busiest weekends! Here are some top recommendations:
– Island Club Rentals – Spacious homes perfect for families and groups(islandclub.com) – 216-898-9951
– Put-in-Bay Condos – Modern, lakeside condos with stunning views(putinbaycondos.com) – 216-898-1105
– Commodore Resort – Right in the heart of downtown(commodoreresort.com) – 419-285-3101
– Victory Station Hotel – Historic charm meets comfort(putinbayvictorystation.com) – 419-285-0120
– Bird’s Nest Resort – Quiet, cozy, and nestled in nature (birdsnestresort.com) – 419-285-6119
And Here’s The Most Important Things To Know For a PIB Trip
To make the most of your Put-in-Bay Pyrate Fest experience, be sure to explore:
– Island Attractions – From Perry’s Victory Monument to mini-golf and caves
– Getting Here: Ferry Details – Check Jet Express or Miller Ferry schedules
– Renting A Golf Cart – The most fun and efficient way to explore the island
– Eat and Drink: PIB Restaurants and Bars – Enjoy everything from seafood and smokehouse BBQ to tropical cocktails
Pyrate Fest Events – Pirate encampments, sword demos, cannon blasts, and more
Pyrate Fest Planned Events
Until the 2024 schedule is officially announced, please take a look here at the 2021 schedule to give you an idea of the sorts of wild pirate shenanigans you can expect!
While we await the 2025 schedule, here’s a sample of the kind of shenanigans you can expect during Pyrate Fest weekend:
FRIDAY – The Invasion Begins
– 4:30 PM – Flag Raising Ceremony & Opening Cannons at DeRivera Park
Witness the dramatic kickoff with booming cannons, pirate fanfare, and live entertainment.
– 5:00 PM – Pyrate Pub Crawl
Adult pirates (21+) start the evening’s revelry at Red Moon and journey through local pubs.
SATURDAY – A Full Day of Pirate Play
– 10:00 AM–5:00 PM – Pirate Encampment & Marketplace
Explore artisan booths, authentic pirate gear, and family-friendly activities.
– 10:00 AM–1:00 PM – Costume Contest Registration
Enter the contest at the info tent to show off your best pirate fashion.
– 10:30 AM & 4:30 PM – Black Powder Demonstrations
Live cannon fire and historical reenactments by 1812 soldiers.
– 11:00 AM–2:00 PM – Kids Activities with Captain Jack Sparrow
From sword lessons to games, the littlest pirates will have a blast.
– 11:00 AM–4:00 PM – Meet Mermaid Tami
Take magical photos with a real-life mermaid at the encampment.
– 2:00 PM – Kids Costume Contest & Pirate Parade
Watch or join the adorable parade, followed by awards and cheers.
– 3:00 PM – Adult “Pyrate of the Year” Costume Contest
Compete for the ultimate prize — a dream trip to the Cayman Islands!
– 6:00 PM – Adult Buccaneer Bash at Reel Bar
Music, drinks, and more for the over-21 crowd. Come in full pirate regalia!
SUNDAY – The Final Quest
– 8:00–9:00 AM – Check-in for the Pyrate 5K Fun Run
– 9:30 AM – Race Begins
Run (or jog or walk) in full costume through scenic PIB!
– 10:00 AM–5:00 PM – Encampment & Marketplace continues
– 3:30 PM – Antique Car Parade
Watch a beautiful procession of classic vehicles — a Put-in-Bay tradition!
As soon as you step off the Put-in-Bay ferry, head straight for DeRivera Park — it’s the epicenter of all the pirate action. From sun-up to sundown, there’s something happening for every member of your crew!
Eat Like a Pirate
After a few days of plundering, you’re sure to build up quite the appetite but we have you covered. Explore tasty grub from any of the Put-in-Bay Ohio eateries and you’ll be fit as a fiddle and ready to return to your voyage. Head over to The Boathouse for delicious seafood options and more. Maybe you need to take a break in one of Put-in-Bay’s favorite pubs? Grab your mate and head over to Hooligans. This awesome Irish Pub offers a great atmosphere with an outdoor seating area and greater beer.
– The Boathouse – Dive into delicious seafood and classic island fare with a lively vibe.
– Hooligans Irish Pub – Sip cold beers in the shade of the outdoor patio and enjoy some Irish hospitality.
– Reel Bar – A top stop for music, drinks, and great food — especially during the Buccaneer Bash.
You won’t want to miss this ARGGGGH-filled weekend full of fun! With so many pirates ready to invade the Put-in-Bay shorelines, you should make way to the lodging page quick to check rates and availability for our Put in Bay hotels!
PRO TIP: Costumes are highly encouraged all weekend long! You’ll feel right at home dressed as a pirate queen, swashbuckling captain, or sea siren. Bonus: the more creative your outfit, the more likely you are to win prizes—or get pulled into an impromptu sword fight photo op!
* This is a Put-in-Bay Chamber of Commerce sponsored event *
See you at the bay! 🙂