Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival

The Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival is held along the beautiful Emerald Coast of Florida in Fort Walton Beach. Named after legendary pirate William Augustus Bowles (aka Billy Bowlegs), this family-friendly, pirate themed celebration is in its 68th year. The festival features the Pre-Invasion on Thursday night, a Pirate Skirmish between the Krewe of Bowlegs and the mayor of Fort Walton Beach on Friday night, the Pirate Landing when Captain Billy Bowlegs and his Krewe attempt to capture the city and mayor on Saturday afternoon, and the celebratory Torchlight Parade on Monday night. Other festivities include the highly popular treasure hunt, a fireworks show, live music, an arts and crafts festival, and delicious food and beverages.

Join us for a swashbuckling good time!

Schedule of Events 

Torchlight Parade

Monday, May 20, 2024 | 7:00 pm

Downtown Fort Walton Beach

Eglin Pkwy from First St to Hughes St, Fort Walton Beach, Florida

The Torchlight Parade concludes the festival. This fun parade has more than 100 floats and participants. Captain Billy and the entire Krewe of Bowlegs will be aboard their five floats and anchor the parade to celebrate Captain Billy Bowleg's 68th annual capture of Fort Walton Beach! As they make their way up Eglin Parkway from First Street to Hughes Street in downtown Fort Walton Beach, they'll be sharing their loot with those cheering them on.

TREASURE HUNT

Captain Billy will hide Bowlegs coins around the city of Fort Walton Beach and citizens will have a chance to go on a treasure hunt to find them. Visit Captain Billy Bowlegs Treasure Hunt to get all the information!

Date: May 16-20, 2024