Frequently Asked Questions
📅 What are the dates and hours of the festival?
Friday, October 9
4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Saturday, October 10
10:00 AM – 8:15 PM
Sunday, October 11
12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
🗺️ Where is the festival located?
Aaron Bessant Park
500 W Park Dr
Panama City Beach, Florida 32413
⚔️ What is the weapons policy?
The Festival bans guns on our premises.
- Longbows are allowed only if they are not strung.
- Arrows with tips are not allowed.
- Swords, knives, dirks and daggers must remain completely sheathed and peace-tied.
- Axes, claymores, maces, antique firearms, pikes and halberds are NOT allowed.
- No drawing of any weapon at any time.
- Plastic and wooden toy weapons are permitted but may not be used in an unsafe manner.
- You must be 18 years or older to carry a weapon.
If your weapon needs to be peace tied, Security at the main gate will provide zip ties before entry.
🪙 Is there an admission fee?
No! Admission to the Pirates of the High Seas & Renaissance Fest is FREE, so everyone is welcome to join the adventure.
While entry is free, you'll find plenty of opportunities to enhance your experience throughout the festival. Browse unique handcrafted goods from merchants, enjoy delicious food and beverages, participate in games and activities, reserve a spot at the Pirate's Breakfast, and discover special experiences from exhibitors.
Many vendors accept both cash and credit cards, though bringing a little cash is always a good idea.
🚗 Where is parking located?
Free parking is available throughout Pier Park , just steps from the festival grounds.
We recommend arriving early for the best parking options, especially during peak festival hours.
👨👩👧 Is the festival family-friendly?
Absolutely! The Pirates of the High Seas & Renaissance Fest is a family-friendly event designed for guests of all ages.
From live entertainment and interactive performances to unique shopping, delicious food, and activities for children and adults alike, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
We encourage all guests to help us create a welcoming, respectful, and fun atmosphere for families throughout the festival.
🎺 When are the parades?
Kid's Parade
Friday, October 9 at 5:30 PM
The Pirate Krawl begins immediately following the Kid's Parade.
Krewe of Dominique Youx Main Parade
Saturday, October 10 at 5:00 PM
🏴 What is the Kid's Parade?
The Kid's Parade is a fun-filled celebration where children are invited to ride on floats along Pier Park Drive!
The parade begins at the Classic Pier Park sign, travels down Pier Park Drive, and returns to the starting location.
It's a special opportunity for kids and families to become part of the excitement and enjoy a memorable pirate adventure together.
🗺️ Where can I view the Krewe of Dominique Youx Main Parade?
The Krewe of Dominique Youx Main Parade travels along Pier Park Drive, giving guests plenty of opportunities to enjoy the floats, entertainment, pirate crews, and festive atmosphere.
🍳 What is the Breakfast with Pirates and where is it located?
Join the pirates for a morning of food, fun, and high-seas excitement before the festival begins!
Breakfast is served from 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM each day.
Friday, October 9
Hyatt Place Panama City Beach
Price Coming Soon
Saturday, October 10
Margaritaville Beach Cottage Resort
$30.00 + tax and gratuity for adults
$15.00 + tax and gratuity for children under 10
Children under the age of 2 are complimentary
Bonus perk: If you purchase the breakfast buffet, you also get free access to the resort's pool and amenities for the rest of that day.
Sunday, October 11
Embassy Suites by Hilton Panama City Beach Resort
$22.00 + tax for non-guests
👒 What should I wear?
Guests are welcome to express their creativity through costumes inspired by pirates, the Renaissance, fantasy, and other historical eras.
To ensure everyone enjoys a safe, welcoming, and family-friendly experience, all attire should be appropriate for an event attended by guests of all ages.
Whether you arrive as a pirate captain, mermaid, knight, fairy, or simply in your favorite festival attire, we can't wait to see your creativity on display!
☠️ Can I meet the pirates?
Absolutely! Pirate crews can be found throughout the festival all day long.
Visit the encampments to see how pirates lived, catch them roaming the festival grounds, wave as they march in the parades, or strike up a conversation during your adventures.
Many of our pirate crews love interacting with guests, posing for photos, and sharing stories from the high seas.
🦜 What is the Pirate Krawl?
The Pirate Krawl is a lively second-line parade that immediately follows the Kid's Parade!
Grab your crew and march from the iconic Pier Park sign on Front Beach Road to the festival grounds, where even more pirate adventures await.
Whether you're dressed as a pirate, mermaid, or simply ready to celebrate, everyone is welcome to krawl their way into the heart of the festival.
📣 Where can I get event updates?
For the latest festival news, entertainment schedules, announcements, weather updates, and important event information, follow our official Facebook page.
Visit the Pirates of the High Seas & Renaissance Fest Facebook Page →
🐾 Can I bring my pet?
Yes! We welcome well-behaved furry friends.
Please remember that the festival includes loud music, live entertainment, and large crowds.
If your pet becomes disruptive or aggressive, our security team may ask that you leave to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests.
⚓ Still Have Questions?
Follow our Facebook page for festival updates, announcements, entertainment schedules, weather information, and exciting pirate news before and during the event.
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