PirateFest
Saturday, July 25, 2026 | 9AM
A Day of High-Seas Adventure for the Whole Family
Ahoy, mateys! Gather your crew and set course for PirateFest at Nauticus, a full day of swashbuckling fun, live entertainment, maritime history, and hands-on adventures throughout the museum and aboard Battleship Wisconsin.
Event Highlights
Pirate Reenactors
Meet colorful pirate characters from Blackbeard’s Crew throughout Nauticus and Battleship Wisconsin as they perform living history demonstrations, cannon firings, and pirate-themed activities for aspiring buccaneers.
Pirate School*
Young pirates can test their skills at Scallywag School, where they’ll learn maritime vocabulary, discover pirate traditions, and embark on a quest for hidden treasure. Spots are limited — sign up in advance for just $5 per person.
Litte Buccaneers Cove (9am – 4:30pm)
Come explore our Buccaneers Cove (3rd Floor in Creative Cove) complete with a pirate fort and pirate ship. Young buccaneers will have the chance to walk the plank, make a pirate hat, and look for buried treasure. This cove is geared towards ages 3-6, but all are welcome.
Pirate Storytime (11am and 3pm)
Join us for a pirate themed story in Norfolk in Time. We will do a different story each time, so make it a day and catch both of them!
Pirate Haven (9am – 4:30pm)
Come into the Pirate Haven (3rd Floor Lab space located in Our Port) to test your hand at pirate ship building. While there, you’ll have a chance to learn the tales of famous pirates and see their flags. Then create your own pirate flag to take home.
Schooner Virginia Sail**
Explore Norfolk’s rich maritime heritage through a sail on the Elizabeth River on Nauticus’ tall ship, Schooner Virginia. For more information, please click here.
Vendors, Games & Family Fun
Browse local vendors, discover pirate treasures, and enjoy activities throughout the museum campus.
Push Comedy Theater
Enjoy a pirate-themed comedy show performed by Push Comedy Theater in the Brock Theater at 3PM.
Scavenger Hunt Adventure
Follow clues throughout Nauticus in search of hidden treasures. Complete the challenge for a chance to win a special prize.
Come Dressed for Adventure
Pirate and mermaid attire is encouraged! Whether you come dressed as a fearless pirate, magical mermaid, daring captain, or legendary explorer, PirateFest is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in a day of imagination, discovery, and waterfront fun. There will be a Costume Contest at 12:15PM in the Atrium.
PirateFest Schedule
9:30AM Little Buccaneer Cannon Battle | Creative Cove, 3rd Floor
10AM Family Schooner Sail (boarding at 9:30AM) | Behind Nauticus on Schooner Virginia
10:30AM Scallywag School | Brock Theater SOLD OUT
11AM Story Time | Norfolk in Time, 3rd Floor
12:00PM Cannon Firing | Fantail of Battleship
12:30PM Scallywag School | Brock Theater
1PM Little Buccaneer Cannon Battle | Creative Cove, 3rd Floor
1PM VIP Tour | Battleship Wisconsin
1:30PM Cannon Firing | Fantail of Battleship
2:30PM Scallywag School | Brock Theater
3PM Story Time | Norfolk in Time, 3rd Floor
3PM Push Comedy Theater | Brock Theater
3:30PM Cannon Firing | Fantail of Battleship
*Additional $5 per student. Must also purchase general admission.
**Separate purchase required but includes access to Nauticus and Battleship Wisconsin. Members get $10 off Schooner Virginia Sail!