Blackbeard's Pirate Jamboree on Ocracoke Island

Blackbeard’s Pirate Jamboree, a weekend living-history festival, celebrating colonial life and Blackbeard's legacy on Ocracoke, for all ages, Oct. 30 & 31, 2026, on Ocracoke Island, NC. Dressed in historical costumes from the 17th and early 18th centuries, colonists and pirates will engage the audience with storytelling, navigation, shipboard medicine, colonial cooking and swordplay. Visitors will

see demonstrations of vintage black powder weapons, join in axe throwing, a tug-o-war match and learn to sword fight. Friday, Oct. 29, kicks off at 7 pm with the showing of the 1968 family-friendly movie "Blackbeard's Ghost" in the Berkley Barn followed by a Q&A with North Carolina historian Kevin Duffus. On Saturday, the encampment will be bustling with activities for all ages, including historical presentations, roving bands of pirates, impromptu sing-alongs and more. A “Brigands Bazaar” around the Berkley Barn will feature arts, crafts, pirate gear and more. Kevin Duffus will give two talks on Saturday on his findings about Blackbeard. At 2 p.m., in “The Battle at Ocracoke,” on Silver Lake harbor, three historically-accurate ships will re-create the last hours of Blackbeard and his crew as Lieutenant Maynard brings them to battle with cannons blazing. Food and drink will also be available at the island's many eateries Parking is available at the NPS Visitors lot at the south end of the island. All visitors are encouraged to bring out their inner pirate and wear their best “pirate gear.”

The event is subject to change due to inclement weather.