It’s been Three Hundred Years since the Infamous Pirate known as “BLACKBEARD” roamed this very region, the Wreck of the QUEEN ANNE’S REVENGE still lies off our Beaufort Inlet and her secrets are unfolding still. For two full days, you can step back in time with the sights and sounds of the 17th century as Beaufort comes alive with over a hundred pirate and militia reenactors as they overrun the town. Enjoy Living History demonstrations in our encampments located at The Beaufort Historical site on Turner Street and in Eury Park, across from Town Hall on 700th block of Front Street. Come see sights such as sword fighting, cannons firing and black powder weapons demonstrations and displays, a mock trial, pirate hanging and so much more.
At The North Carolina Maritime Museum, come see the new Blackbeard/ QAR exhibit, now under construction. While there, pick up your BPI Most-Wanted Card and find all the pirates, including Blackbeard himself, and collect some BOOTY! Across the street, stop by the Watercraft Center and visit our stage in the new Harborside Park for some lively entertainment. No telling what ye may find, but guaranteed family-oriented fun.
There will be activities for everyone young and old to enjoy throughout town, such as musical entertainment, magic shows, costume contest, storytelling, period encampments, face painting and vendors. With wide eyes and amazement, aspiring young pirates will enjoy the spontaneous shenanigans as the nefarious characters roam the streets and shops, engaging in mock battles, bursting into song, posing for pictures.
On Friday afternoon at 3:00 pm, visit the Invasion Site at Grayden Paul Park and Eury Park, where we will commemorate the Original Beaufort Pirate Invasion of 1960 at the original landing site. This in remembering the Spanish Attack of Beaufort in 1747 and the efforts to preserve our history by those who have served this cause before us.
Saturday morning will roar with cannon fire as we start the ‘YO HO HO and a bottle o’RUN’ 5K road race at 8:00 am. Race registration starts at 7:00 am. Pirates will be there to mock,….umm, cheer, you on!
Saturday afternoon our Main event will be, “The Battle of Blackbeard”, at 3:00 pm. Maybe Capt. Teach will win this one! It is after all, THE YEAR OF BLACKBEARD!!!
And do not miss our Pirate Parlays at Eury Park both Friday and Saturday evenings from 7:00 pm till 11:00 pm. Bring your chairs and picnic blankets and enjoy the singing and entertainment. We will serve a to-go style plate of BBQ or chicken with sides on site for a ticketed price. We will be honoring Capt Sinbad and Lt. Brown at Friday night’s parlay to commemorate The Meka II and her crew’s 51 years of service and adventure. We shall also toast & roast him as he officially retires from his long service to Beaufort Pirate Invasion.
Stay turned for more updates and more info on events…
And don’t forget Mates, IT TAKES A VILLAGE TO PILLAGE!!!