Port Aransas Pirate Parade: Talk Like a Pirate Day in Port A
Held each year in celebration of Talk Like a Pirate Day, the Pirate Parade is one of those Port Aransas events that is just plain fun. Locals, visitors, families, and pirate-loving revelers come together for an afternoon of costumes, decorated rides, music, and plenty of island-style shenanigans.
And the best part? It’s all for a good cause. Monetary donations are accepted during the event, with proceeds benefiting local children.
🏴☠️ When Is the Port Aransas Pirate Parade?
Date: September 19
Line-up: 4:00 PM
Parade begins: 6:00 PM
Starting location: The Gaff, 323 Beach Street, Port Aransas
If you want to participate, head to The Gaff beginning at 4 PM to get lined up. That gives you plenty of time to get your pirate crew together, show off your costume, and check out the other creative entries before the parade sets sail at 6 PM.
⚓ Go Big or Go Home — Especially With Your Float! 
One of our favorite things about the Pirate Parade is seeing how creative people get with their entries. And we know a little something about that!
A few years ago, we entered the parade with our own pirate-themed float — and took home 2nd place! 🏴☠️🏆
Our idea was definitely island-inspired. We had a skeleton pirate surfing on a surfboard, which we towed behind a golf cart. To make the whole thing look like he was riding a wave, we fastened blue pool noodles around the surfboard to create the waves.
But we didn’t stop there.
We added little skeleton mermaids climbing all over the surfboard — including one making its way right up the pirate’s leg! It was ridiculous, creepy, and completely perfect for the Pirate Parade.
And yes, we still have the trophy!
Our purple 2nd-place trophy is proudly displayed at Coastal Ed’s Golf Carts in Port Aransas. So if you’re ever in the shop, you can see a little piece of our Pirate Parade history for yourself.
Honestly, that’s what makes this event so much fun. You don’t need a professional float or a huge budget. A golf cart, some pool noodles, a little imagination, and a willingness to get creative can go a long way!
🏆 Pirate Parade Contests
If you’re thinking about joining the parade, bring your creativity because there are prizes for:
- 🏆 1st & 2nd Place — Best Outfit
- 🏆 1st & 2nd Place — Best Ride
So start brainstorming! A pirate crew on a golf cart? A decorated boat? A full-blown pirate ship? The more fun, the better.
🗺️ Port Aransas Pirate Parade Route
The parade starts and finishes at The Gaff on Beach Street.
The route follows:
The Gaff → S. Station Street → Ave C → Alister Street → Cotter Street → Station Street → Beach Street → back to The Gaff
If you’re watching rather than participating, find a spot along the route and get ready to cheer on the pirate crews as they roll by.
❤️ A Parade That Gives Back
One of the things we love about Port Aransas is how often our community finds a way to have fun while helping others.
Monetary donations are accepted during the Pirate Parade, with donations benefiting local children. So bring a few dollars, support a great cause, and enjoy an afternoon of pirate-filled fun.
🏴☠️ Add the Pirate Parade to Your Port Aransas Bucket List
The Pirate Parade is exactly the kind of event that makes Port Aransas feel like Port Aransas. It’s quirky, creative, community-minded, and doesn’t take itself too seriously.
Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or you’re a local looking for something fun to do, Talk Like a Pirate Day is a pretty good excuse to dress like a pirate, decorate a ride, and join the crew.
And who knows? Maybe you’ll be taking home your own purple trophy to display proudly!
Arrr you ready?
📍 Event Details at a Glance
The Gaff’s Annual Pirate Parade
📅 September 19
📍 The Gaff — 323 Beach Street, Port Aransas
⏰ Line-up begins at 4 PM
🏴☠️ Parade begins at 6 PM
❤️ Monetary donations benefit local children
🏆 Prizes for Best Outfit & Best Ride
Pack your pirate gear, bring your creativity, and make the Port Aransas Pirate Parade part of your Bucket List!
Map of Port Aransas
Port Aransas has a plethora of history and nature areas to explore. Offering nature trails, bird watching, allegator/dolphin/sea turtle sightings and more. Did you know know Franklin D Roosevelt has a signed Tarpon scale in Port Aransas? Or that we have a remnants of a WWII Gun Mounts? Check out our map for a self-guided tours through Port Aransas be sure to include a stop at the Port Aransas History Museum.
Always something fun happening Port Aransas:
Be sure to check out our calendar of events to stay posted on the fun things to do with kids in Port Aransas! Port A Bucket List Calendar
Other Things to Do in Port Aransas
So many things to do in Port Aransas
- Beyond Dolphin Watching: This is a great guide on where to connect with nature in Port Aransas. Lots of information on Fishing charters, birdwatching, and nature trails. Did you know we have a resident alligator named Boots?
- Culinary Delights: Local eateries serving fresh seafood and coastal cuisine a guide to Port Aransas restaurants. Did you know most places will cook your fishing catch?
- Events and Festivals: Always something going on from live music, art shows, and festivals. Check out our calendar and plan your Port Aransas Escape. Did you know Port Aransas is an official live music city of Texas?
- Ultimate Port A Bucket List: A downloadable things-to-do-and-see checklist for an immersive Port Aransas experiences!
- Where to Eat in Port Aransas: Full guide on where to eat in Port Aransas, From family friendly, pet friendly, breakfast places and the best fish tacos.
