Event
festivalOuter Banks Pirate Festival
Guests can meet visiting pirates, learn about Blackbeard and the coastal legends of North Carolina, and take part in hands-on activities designed especially for kids.
Date
August 12-13, 2026
Time
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location
Jockeys Ridge Crossing
Admission
Free
Family Friendly
OBX Pirate Festival 2026
From Scallywag School to pirate-themed entertainment, games, crafts, and photo moments, the Outer Banks Pirate Festival is a memorable summer stop for families visiting Nags Head, Jockey’s Ridge, and the surrounding Outer Banks area.
Event Dates & Time – Wednesday, 8/12 and Thursday, 8/13 from 10:00 am until 4:00 PM at Jockey’s Ridge Crossing
Scallywag School for kids ready to join the crew – Registration Required (click link to register – $20 each)
Pirate meet-and-greets with costumed characters
Outer Banks pirate history and Blackbeard-inspired storytelling
Themed acoustic performances
Family-friendly games and activities
Don’t miss out on the FUN!
Day-of Schedule:
10:00am – Round of Cannon Fire to open the Event
10:00am-10:45am – JR Shanty Live Acoustic Performance
11:00am-11:30am – SCALLYWAG SCHOOL for Aspiring Pirates
11:30am-12:15pm – JR Shanty Live Acoustic Performance
12:15pm-12:30pm – Cannon Fire Demonstration
1:00pm-1:30pm – SCALLYWAG SCHOOL for Aspiring Pirates
1:45pm- 2:15pm – Cannon Fire Demonstration
2:15pm-3:00pm – JR Shanty Live Acoustic Performance
3:00pm -3:30pm – SCALLYWAG SCHOOL for Aspiring Pirates
4:00pm – Closing of Encampment: Cannon Round
Throughout the Day – Living history demonstrations, photo opportunities with pirates and themed displays, pirate-themed entertainment, acoustic performances and announcements, shopping, treats, and summer fun at Jockey’s Ridge Crossing