Buckeye Lake Pirate Festival relocates to larger venue for third annual event
The festival began in 2024 with 3,000 attendees and outgrew its space in 2025 when more than 5,000 swashbucklers visited.
What does it take to be the perfect pirate? A red bandana, sturdy leather boots, an eye patch, a vest, belts and a three-cornered hat. All that, and a boldly confident attitude.
On May 15, pirates of all shapes and sizes will set sail for Buckeye Lake, home of what is billed as the largest gathering of pirates in the Midwest.
Pirate Fest Returns 2025!
Featuring Tri-County Weekend Treasure Hunt, Expanded Pirate Market, and Family-Friendly Festivities!
Buckeye Lake Pirate Fest Returns with Expanded Market and Treasure Hunt
The Buckeye Lake Pirate Fest is set to return from May 16 to 18, 2025, offering a range of activities for attendees. The event will feature a Tri-County Weekend Treasure Hunt, an expanded Pirate Market, and various family-friendly festivities.
“The Pirate Market, anchored in Buckeye Lake, Licking County, serves as the central hub,” according to the organizers. However, the weekend’s events will extend beyond this location. Participants can explore areas such as Buckeye Lake State Park and nearby towns including Thornport and Fairfield Beach in Perry County.
2024 First Buckeye Lake Pirate Festival to be Held This May.
Buckeye Lake welcomes Pirates, Mermaids, Steampunk fans and the public for a regional Treasure Hunt by Land and Sea featuring family-friendly Pirate Marketplace.
A new Buckeye Lake Pirate Festival will officially open in the Village of Buckeye Lake at 5 pm on Friday, May 17 with a ribbon cutting and a sneak peak of the Pirate Marketplace.
Brace for Swashbuckling Fun as Pirate Fest Returns to Buckeye Lake May 16-18
Featuring Tri-County Weekend Treasure Hunt, Expanded Pirate Market, and Family-Friendly Festivities!
Get ready to hoist the mainsail! The Buckeye Lake Pirate Fest is back and bigger than ever, setting course for a thrilling three-day event from May 16th to 18th. Welcoming pirates, mermaids, steampunk enthusiasts, and the public of all ages, this family-friendly festival promises a weekend filled with treasure hunting, lively entertainment, and a bustling Pirate Market showcasing the best of the Buckeye Lake region.
2024 Buckeye Lake Pirate Fest opens on Friday with ribbon cutting and marketplace opening
Lancaster Eagle-Gazette
USA TODAY NETWORK
The Buckeye Lake Pirate Fest featuring a Pirate Marketplace will be this Friday and Saturday.
The event, which is produced by Buckeye Events, will include treasure hunts and themed tours on May 18.
