Ahoy there, Mateys. The Tybee Island Pirate Fest returns Oct. 6-9 after a couple of years’ hiatus. The 2022 event will be a scaled down version of the popular event, with plans to bring the fest back in full force in 2023.
We have you covered on Frequently Asked Questions about this family-friendly, fun-filled event.
What is it? Tybee Island Pirate Festival is a weekend-long event that includes live music at various venues, a parade and fun for all ages. The young - and the young at heart - definitely get into the spirit of this celebration. Even landlubbers find something to love.
How did it start? In 2005, a handful of locals wanted a unique event to help bring visitors to Tybee Island during the off-season. So, they held the first Tybee Island Pirate Festival. It turned out to be more successful than the organizers anticipated. The city got involved, as did the Tybee Island Tourism Council.
What does it cost? Tickets range from $12 to $25, depending on the event.
What are the hours? Festivities take place from 5 to 11 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 7 and from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday. It kicks off with the Buccaneer Ball at The Crab Shack on Thursday, Oct. 6, an over-21 event with plenty of costumed party-goers (costumes are not required) embracing the Pirates theme.
When is the parade? The parade rolls at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 8, where you can expect plenty of pirate flags, costumed riders and pirate-themed floats.
Where does the parade roll? It runs from North Beach to Van Horn out to Second Avenue by the Sugar Shack onto Highway 80 and then to Tybrisa. It ends at 17th Street.
What is there for kids to do? The festival features the Little Matey’s Cove, which offers bouncy houses, Pirate Camp, a costume contest and a Petting Zoo. Because this year is a pared down version of the festival, some of those offerings may change.
Where should I stay? Book a property close to all the action, with one of our Tybee Island property rentals. The festival grounds are set up in the South Beach Parking Lot by the Tybee Pier, and we have several properties in that area. But to be fair, any Tybee Island property will put you close to the fun.