Pirate Party A Success
By John Swartz
Labour Day Weekend’s Pirate Party at the Port of Orillia was a success. After decades of not having events happening during the last holiday weekend of summer, or those that tried and failed, it was good to see people were out on an unexpected scale to take in the activities.
Dozens of re-enactors in costume were joined by dozens more partiers who came dressed up as pirate characters.
The re-enactors staged mock sea battles several times over the three day event, storming the beach at the Leacock Museum and at the Champlain Yacht Club.
An encampment was set up and re-enactors staged sword duels. The Rotary Club of Orillia operated a beer tent, and with the weather co-operating it was a busy place.
The highlight was the Walk the Plank event Saturday afternoon. It was a fundraiser for Rotary, with proceeds going toward the remaining renovations planned for the Aqua Theatre. Some member of the current council, along with a few hoping to councillors after the election is done, walked the plank at the dull point of a foam sword – or were pushed, by the harbour master of the Port, Allan Lafontaine. The swimmers raised $3497.95 for Rotary.
There was also live music each night and the Ronnie Douglas Blues Band set up in the gazebo facing the beer tent Saturday night, which afforded a sizable audience for their performance. The Connor Brothers played Friday night and the Orangemen Sunday night.
Enjoy photos from the Walk the Plank Event.
(Photos by Swartz – SUNonline/Orillia) Main: Mayor Steve Clarke being escorted to his fate by Port of Orillia harbour master, Allan Lafontaine.
