The popular Pyrate Fest at Put-in-Bay is one of the noisiest celebrations of island life each year, with plenty of cannons firing, bands playing and revelers roaming the streets. Unfortunately, restrictions imposed because of the COVID-19 pandemic have resulted in island officials cancelling the June 26-28 event.

“After much thought and deliberation, the Put-in-Bay Chamber of Commerce and the Pyrate Fest Committee have made the difficult decision to cancel Pyrate Fest for the 2020 season,” said chamber officials. “Pyrate Fest is an incredibly interactive, social and hands-on event. At this time, we do not feel we are able to hold a large event like this while maintaining proper social distancing, along with all health and safety guidelines set forth by the State of Ohio and the CDC.”

Local officials said that Pyrate Fest is one of the island’s favorite family events of the year. They are looking forward to planning Pyrate Fest 2021 and seeing all of their “Pyrate Friends” next year.