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Relive the Swashbuckling Fun of the 2015 Louisiana Pirate Festival in Lake Charles

By Linda Aksomitis

Relive the Swashbuckling Fun of the 2015 Louisiana Pirate Festival in Lake Charles Witness the cannon fire on May 2 as the city militia tries to defend the seawall, only to be overtaken by Jean Lafitte. Photo by David Aksomitis. There’s nothing like a captivating pirate tale—or festival—to draw me across 2,000 miles. The Louisiana Pirate Festival in Lake Charles delivered every bit of excitement I anticipated.
I’ve long been fascinated by pirates, even playing the role with my grandson in our hot tub from age two. He was always captain, demoting me to first mate or cabin boy before walking the plank with a splash.     So, I could relate to Lake Charles’ mayor when “Pirate Jean Lafitte” forced him overboard! With the mayor dispatched, pirates ruled the 12-day event (spanning two weekends).   Pirates excel at parties, and this festival proved it.   We timed our visit for the opening weekend, catching the parade and pirate “attack” on the city. Period-costumed reenactors defended the seawall with cannons as Jolly Roger-flagged boats circled the bay. Once ashore, the buccaneers triumphed, leading us to the Civic Center for more festivities.   A midway, vendor booths, Cajun cuisine, and live bands on the outdoor stage kept the energy high. The 2015 concert lineup (April 28-May 10) featured The Flamethrowers, Encore, Bag of Donuts, and Wayne Toups.   Daytime offered Lake Charles culture: boudin balls, cracklins, the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road, and Mardi Gras Museum.  
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