10th Annual Cedar Key Pirate Invasion Weekend.
Prepare to set sail for adventure as the highly anticipated 10th Annual Cedar Key Pirate Invasion Weekend officially locks its coordinates for October 30 through November 1, 2026!
For three swashbuckling days, our historic coastal haven will transform into a high-seas hideaway, welcoming scallywags, privateers, and families alike for a full weekend of piratical fun.
A Milestone Celebration: What to Expect
This year’s 10th anniversary promises an unforgettable lineup of entertainment and immersive experiences for all ages:
Pirate Encampment: Step back in time and explore a detailed, living-history pirate camp.
Live Action Demonstrations: Feel the roar of black powder demonstrations hosted by the Loose Cannon Co.
Live Music & Performances: Dance along to maritime melodies from the renowned pirate band Rusty Cutlass, and catch performances by the Ancient City Sirens throughout the weekend.
Marketplace: Browse a bustling array of local and visiting vendors offering unique artisan goods and treasures.
Treasure Trove of Family Fun & Halloween Festivities
The Cedar Key Pirate Invasion is packed with activities designed specifically for young powder monkeys:
Kids' Activities: Costume contest, a treasure hunt, mermaid meet-and-greets, and town-wide pirate hunts using official "WANTED" posters.
Parades: Don't miss the beloved annual Golf Cart Parade & Parade of Pirates bringing an explosion of color and creativity through the streets.
Exclusive Merch & Booty: Grab official event T-shirts, flags, and shot glasses. Enter the Treasure Chest Raffle for a chance to win a mystery chest packed with pirate loot (21+ to claim).
🎃 Special Halloween in the Park (Saturday Night)
To celebrate Halloween on Saturday, October 31st, the traditional Parlay & Auction has moved to Friday evening. This clears Saturday night for pirates to take over the park from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM to welcome trick-or-treaters!
Locals and visitors are encouraged to bring their own candy, chairs, tables, and spooky decorations to join in on this safe, community-wide Halloween celebration.
Official Schedule of Events
Note: Schedule details are subject to change. Arrive early to secure a prime spot for parades and live demonstrations!
Friday, October 30
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Vendor Setup
12:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Festival Grounds & Vendors Open to Public
6:00 PM: Parlay & Auction (Held at 2nd St. Café) or Roam the Town
Saturday, October 31 (Halloween)
10:00 AM: Opening Ceremonies
10:30 AM: Golf Cart Parade & Parade of Pirates
11:30 AM: Loose Cannon Co. Black Powder Demonstration
1:00 PM: Ancient City Sirens Performance
1:30 PM: Kids' Costume Contest
2:00 PM: Loose Cannon Co. Black Powder Demonstration
3:00 PM: Rusty Cutlass Live in the Park / Kids' Treasure Hunt
4:00 PM: Ancient City Sirens Performance
4:30 PM: Ticket Drawing for Treasure Chest Booty Raffle
5:00 PM: Official Grounds Close
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Pirates in the Park for Trick-or-Treaters!
Sunday, November 1
10:00 AM: Park & Vendors Open
1:00 PM: Loose Cannon Co. Black Powder Demonstration
3:00 PM: Festival Breakdown & Event Conclusion
Tag your photos and social posts with #ilovecedarkey to share your favorite moments from the weekend!
Are you looking for other events in Cedar Key? Check the I Love Cedar Key To-Do page to see what’s coming up!
I use Gemini, an Ai by Google, to help me write and gather information.