Each year, from mid- to late November, the Cayman Islands are overrun by pirates. There’s plenty of debauchery as boatloads of scruffy seagoers with eye patches, poor drinking habits and a tendency to break out in inventive songs kick off their arrival by staging a daring kidnapping of the island’s governor. Ten days of pure fun, excitement and celebration follow in the largest festival in the country. Each year this annual event draws upwards of 35,000 as they come out to cheer, celebrate, eat, drink and be entertained.

The 2016 Ten Day Pirate Festival

For 34 years, the Caribbean has celebrated its unique cultural heritage and pirate legends by hosting a variety of events, and it just keeps getting better every year. In 2016, the Ten Day Pirate Festival — which is scheduled to run from November 10 to November 20 — will encompass some 32 events. Each district will host its own Heritage Days that will pay homage to their unique — yet intertwined — history and similarities. Other events include numerous parades, happy hours, costume contests, parties and much more scattered throughout all three of the Caribbean islands.

Schedule of Events

The Ten Day Pirate Festival is a family event that features a number of activities and celebrations aimed at both adults-only and families. This balanced combination is one of the things that make this festival so popular. Some events that visitors and residents alike can look forward to in addition to the landing of the pirates are a huge fireworks display that explodes in bright and festive lights over historic George Town. Afterwards, the Songfest, situated near the alluring lull and beauty of the sea beckon you to join in. Or enjoy the pulsating beats of Caribbean bands while you get your groove on until the early hours of the morning.

Other activities that are scheduled to occur throughout the festival include a cardboard boat race, children’s fair, underwater treasure hunt, golf tournaments, swimming races and road races. Street dances encourage visitors and locals alike to join in all the festivity and fun. As the festival nears its end, the locals overthrow the invading pirates and they are tried and sentenced. A pageant, night parade, fireworks and street dance follow.

Make plans now to attend the Ten Day Pirate Festival in 2016. Be sure to book early for the best selection in lodging and activities.