The Premier Pirate Event — For Families!

Gates of the Portland Pirate FestivalCome experience the region's best musicians and entertainers, a vast marauder's market of pirate treasures, children's rides and activities, and international cuisine worthy of Blackbeard himself. It all takes place in historic Cathedral park alongside the clear waters of the Willamette, and framed by the majestic St. John's Bridge. 

As the lingering smoke from the popular B.O.O.M. cannon show shrouds the beach, you'll see officers of the King's Navy mingling with stilt-walkers, jugglers, puppeteers, and wandering peformers of every variety. Enjoy a libation at the Rogue Brewery while you listen to Captain Bogg & Salty or Brothers of the Baladi. Head over to Scupper Monkey Island for free balloons, face painting, and incredible slides and rides.

Tickets are available in advance from Tickets Alternative. We aim to make Portland Pirate Festival the best pirate experience possible for you. Please write us with suggestions, questions or feedback!

Live Music

BOOM on stage, photo by Byron DazeyThe Portland Pirate Festival has gained a reputation for bringing together the best eclectic musical performers in the Northwest, from the buccaneer rock of Captain Bogg & Salty to the scurvy ballads and chanteys of Brotherhood of Oceanic Mercenaries. MUSIC

Dance, juggling, and puppetry

From juggling to cannon battles, from live parrots to puppetry, the Portland Pirate Festival has something for everyone. You'll be immersed in the the best of pirate culture as Cathedral Park transforms into a bustling dock-side village full of wandering buccaneers, redcoats, clowns, jugglers, and balladeers. Between performances you'll be entertained by our favorite Buccaneer Emcee–the talented Mark Lewis.DANCE & PERFORMANCE

Scupper Monkey Island

Scupper Monkey Island inflatable rides, photo by Jenny KonopinskiThe incredible Kraken devours a ship whole while revelers whiz down the 30 foot slides! The kids play area features several inflatable rides, plus the Clowns Unlimited 24-foot climbing wall. Attractions suit a variety of ages, from toddler to adult. Wandering performers, puppet shows, a family market, free tattoos, balloons, and more. FOR KIDS

Cannons and Historical Re-enactments

King's Navy photo by Byron DazeyPirates, privateers, and redcoats patrol the beaches–and when they meet, swords clash and cannons boom! Will ye root for the King's Navy, or climb aboard with those notorious Privateers of the Emerald Rose, known as B.O.O.M. These freedom loving outcasts are sure to liven up the day as they relive The Golden Age of Piracy with mock sword battles and live cannon demonstrations.HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS

Family Fun in Adventure Gully

Pirate Fun Village photo by Byron DazeyAdventure Gully and nearby Scoundrel's Fight Court promise to be more fun than a ship-load of gold, with games and activities for the whole family.

  • Mix with wandering entertainers.
  • Witness a live sword fight at the Scoundrel's Court fight arena
  • Engage in contests of skill for the mind and body.
  • Join in on the wild fun with Rhys Thomas and Amazama in the BerCirqus.
  • Interactive strategy game Pirates of the Cursed Seas by WizKids

MORE FOR KIDS

Marauders Market & Tortuga Market

Marauder's Market, photo by Byron DazeyAll manner of pirate merchants selling their wares while roaming entertainers create a festive and bustling center of activity. This is the best pirate shopping you'll find in the Portland area, with hand-made crafts and garb, trinkets, and toys for kids and adults. But keep your eye out for the Kings Navy; they be hunting pirates. PIRATE MARKETS

Food fit for a Pirate King!

When it comes to food, pirates never had it so good! From Rogue Brewery to the Lost Liner Cafe, the region's finest restaurants supply their buccaneer best throughout the festival, providing a variety of eclectic NW flavors and brews that will have you coming back for more. GRUB GROG

History Bazaar

History Bazaar, photo by Andreea Grad and John WhangThe old world comes alive as pirates, buskers, craftsmen and blacksmiths recreate life in a make-shift island settlement. With hands-on historical displays and demonstrations to educate and entertain scallywags of all ages. HISTORY

 

Buy tickets by phone, on the web or at one of our convenient local ticket outlets!

KPDX LOGO

Win Tickets To The Pirate Festival from our sponsor PDX TV. Ten winners will receive two tickets each to the festival at Cathedral Park in St. John's. Enter Here

pit stop logo

Join us at the Pit Stop BBQ Grill for the "Pirate Festival Warm-Up Party" on Friday Sept 19th (International Talk Like a Pirate Day). Enjoy live music by the Seadogs, a special pirate Grub & Grog menu, lively games & contests to get you in the mood for piratitude. Stay at the Red Lion Convention Center Hotel and get a free ride to and from the party on the Portland Party Bus. Details and Directions

Are ye ready to serve under the black flag? Contact us.

Take advantage of the special $99 pirate festival room rate at the Portland Convention Center Red Lion Hotel 

One-half of all 2008 sponsorship income is being donated to the Children's Cancer Association.

Best Bet Award

Read why the award-winning Portland Pirate Festival is a great place for families. Testimonials

This ship is coming in! Join the crew and become a sponsor of the 3rd annual Portland Pirate Festival today. More

2008 Sponsors

Pietro's Pizza logo

Pietro's Pizza logo

Pietro's Pizza logo

St. Johns Sentinel Logo

Rogue Brewery Logo