Avast ye, landlubbers and seafarers! The Buckeye Lake Pirate Festival is back and bigger than ever!
Set sail for an unforgettable weekend May 16-18, 2025, where pirates, mermaids, steampunk enthusiasts, and families of all kinds will join together to celebrate the start of summer with treasure hunting, lively entertainment, and a bustling Pirate Market.
Treasure and More at Pirate Fest
This year, the Pirate Festival has expanded to a three-day extravaganza, so there’s even more fun to be had! With over 100 vendors across two exciting locations and a variety of food trucks, the Pirate Market will be the central hub of the action.
The festival kicks off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5 PM on May 16 at the Harbor Community Center, which will be transformed into “Port Royal” for the weekend. Expect to meet local dignitaries, pirates, and possibly even a mermaid or two! After the ceremony, Sparky Brewer will be singing shanties to get the crowd into the pirate spirit.
New for 2025: Port Royal Market will be joined by the North Shore Market, directly across the street from the main location, providing even more opportunities for treasure hunting and local shopping.
Hunt for Hidden Treasures
The Pirate Treasure Hunt is back, and it’s better than ever! With 40 hidden treasure chests spread throughout the Buckeye Lake area, including Buckeye Lake State Park, Thornport, Fairfield Beach, and Millersport, adventurers can pick up their Treasure Hunt Map at Port Royal or participating local businesses. No purchase necessary! The map will guide you to hidden loot and special weekend pirate parties hosted by local businesses.
New for 2025: After the fest, 40 lucky participants will win hidden treasures from participating businesses, valued at $150 or more.
Why You Can’t Miss It
Where else can you shop, dine with a mermaid, or compete for treasure while dressed as your favorite sea rogue? The Buckeye Lake Pirate Festival promises to be a land (and sea) of fun for families, friends, and freebooters of all ages.
So hoist your flags, don your eye patches, and set course for Buckeye Lake this May. And remember, come for the treasure, stay for the fun!
For more info about the festival, head over to buckeyelakepiratefest.com.
