Pirate Fest 2017

After a several-year absence, the Pirate Festival returned to Port Washington, Wisconsin. This popular festival brings throngs of would-be pirates to town for a fun weekend. The festival includes vendor booths, bands, exhibits, sword fights, an 8k run, food, and even a tall ship!

People

Of course, real pirates were people. Now, festival-goers enjoy pretending to be pirates and dressing in elaborate costumes. It makes for quite a visual spectacle.

– Watch a video of dancers at Pirate Fest

Place

Given its location on the western shores of Lake Michigan, Port Washington is a natural choice for a maritime-oriented festival. Even Port Washington High School’s sports teams are called the Pirates. During Pirate Fest, the entire harbor and marina area comes alive with attractions to please the thousands of visitors who come to town.

– Watch a video of the Port Washington Pirate Festival grounds

Market

Pirate Fest wouldn’t be complete without vendors hawking everything a would-be pirate might need. Those wishing to embrace the pirate lifestyle can find it all on sale at the Thieves Marketplace.

Boats

Real pirates ply their trade from boats, preying on shipping, plundering cargoes and attacking crew members. Port Washington and its marina is home to hundreds of boats every year. Some of them even get suitable decorated for the festival. Adding a touch of authenticity to the festival, Wisconsin’s Tall Ship, the S/V Denis Sullivan, paid a visit.

– Watch a video of pleasure craft in the Port Washington Inner Harbor

– Watch a video of charter fishing boats in the Port Washington Inner Harbor