Random Happening: Pirate Invasion Long Beach is Coming Ashore June 29 & 30

Pirate Invasion Long Beach returns to Shoreline Aquatic Park, identified on the treasure map as the “Pirate Island,” June 29 and 30.

Founded by Fred Khammar in 2007, the event is a cosplay favorite in the southland with fun for the whole family. Known as “The Biggest Pirate Fest in the West,” there’s something for every age. Activities for the youngest mateys includes face painting, inflatables, games, and unique pirate goodies. For those interested in the history of pirates, enjoy an interactive pirate encampment as well as pirate battles twice a day. Come dressed in your best pirate regalia and enter the costume contest to name the Duke and Duchess of the Pirate Invasion.

Blanketing the shoreline will be pirate entertainment including magic by Captain Jack Spareribs, black powder and sword fighting shows, picture friendly pirates and mermaids, food/drink and merchandise vendors selling pirate booty from the seven seas, a fire show after dark, and much more. Hard rock, sea shanties, and folk music will accompany the pirate adventure all day as bands are slated on a revolving stage.

Chips the Pirate will lead the pub tour for people 21 and older only (no babies or children in strollers allowed) who purchased additional admission up to the Peninsula Lighthouse, stopping at three sea shanties with a choice of one drink from an extensive list at each location including the Nowhere to Rum Bar. Then meet the Spanish King and Queen in the VIP area. Pub tours are scheduled for 1, 3, 5 and 7 p.m. Saturday, and 1, 3, and 5 p.m. Sunday.

Admission to the Nowhere to Rum pub crawl is $45. See ticket website for arrival times and payment details. Ticket prices are $10 for kids 12 and under, $20 for adults, +$45 for the Pirates Pub Crawl, and two levels of VIP passes (Silver for $125 per person, and gold for $200 per person).

Time: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday, June 29, 30

Cost: $10 and up

Details: Tickets, https://www.pirateinvasionlongbeach.com or purchase at the event

Venue: Shoreline Aquatic Park 200 Aquarium Way, Long Beach