For the Adults...

My Dearest Lucy!

I realized that I probably should have written more in my last letter, to let you know that of course there is more than enough to entertain adults as well as children! The annual Pirate Festival is unusually successful at ensuring that people of all ages are entertained all day long! Over the last few years, I have spoken with people of all ages who found our festival to be completely their particular brand of fun!

Other than the children’s stage I mentioned in my last letter, there are an additional 3 stages of fun and entertainment – most of the shows of them are children friendly, but some of the humour is more suited to a more mature audience! The program of events will guide people to the shows they will enjoy! As an adult without children myself, I have always enjoyed that there is much at the Pirate Festival that is geared towards adults as well as children!

There is much that is scheduled to happen in Dry Bluffs on the day of the Festival – I have called a village council meeting, where you, my dear Lucy, can sit and overhear all the latest news – although Mr. Sparsgood calls it more gossip – and learn what is going on in the village! I know you will forgive the interruption to our shopping – I am the Chairperson, and must attend, or nothing at all will be accomplished!

The Shipwrecked stage usually hosts shows more suited to an older crowd – last year there was a full fledged fight during a pirate’s parlay – you must stop by to find out what occurs this year! There is rumour of a “Dating Game” of some kind – but I have as of yet been unable to find out more details! “Zoltan the Adequate” – an entertainer without peer; will also be doing several shows throughout the day – his show usually involves some audience participation which keeps things fresh and new!

Throughout the day, there is much to see in our village – if you dare, you could visit one of our two sea sages who may make more sense than usual! If you are watchful, you may be able to witness one of the several duels that seem to occur on an almost daily basis! Living with so many Pirates in town makes it difficult to get through a day without at least 2 or 3! I tell you, Lucy, I have been considering taking a few lessons in fencing myself – terribly unladylike, I know, but one of these days I am sure that only with a blade in my hand will I be able to effect any lasting change!

Lucy, I know you enjoy live music, so we will be sure to take an opportunity to pause in the tavern awhile, and catch a few musical shows – between The Pirates McKenna, the ScIrish Mob, and Captain Tor, there is always something happening in the Thirsty Parrot Tavern! As you may have guessed, I am also known to enjoy a nice tankard of grog as the day draws to a close!

On Saturday night, the tavern will be staying open late for our annual Captain’s Keg – a party specifically for adults! The bar Mistress is kept quite busy this evenings, and songs and entertainment last well into the night – it is a late night to be sure, but not to be missed! No one parties quite so well as pirates!

I have quite run out of room – and shall have to rely on my earlier correspondence to remind you of the mud show, and all the things there are to see in our village! The shopping is unparalleled – things you cannot buy anywhere else! I can hardly wait until our festival days!

Affectionately, Anthea

Children's events at the Pirate Festival

My Dear Lucy!

The other day I was asked by a friend in a neighbouring village if there were activities for children at the Pirate Fest, and I thought I should let you know how I answered her! Although you do not have children, I know that on your journey here, you may meet others who wish to know more about our festival! It is only right, therefore to share all I know! We DO appreciate you spreading the word – the more who attend, the better time we all shall have!

For those who attend with children, there is so much to do and see! First and foremost, we have an entire stage dedicated to events for children! Seek out the Barnacle stage – you will know it by the towers and background – it looks like a castle or fort! Throughout the day, there will be shows geared to children that the adults will enjoy as well! Shows range from a variety of story telling, juggling and comedy, and a school for pirates, as well as a sing along! Every attendee will receive a schedule as they enter the gate – which will tell them what type of shows are available at what times of the day!

Also available this year is a special activity area for children – an assortment of actvities and crafts guaranteed to entertain and keep the young ones occupied! Children can participate in a treasure hunt – a quest to solve clues and find out answers that will allow them to finally dig for treasure as a prize!

Our Pirate ship will be available for most of the day; children can climb aboard and make belief that they are setting sail on the high seas! Kids and adults are also welcome to dress the part – costumes always enhance the fun, and provide endless crowd watching opportunities! As families walk the village, they may have an opportunity to interact with a pirate – or to watch a duel! Children also always enjoy the mud stage – what is not to love about playing in the mud? With so much to see, there will be memories that last a long time!

The above activities are free of charge and included with admission! For a small fee, children may also enjoy playing our games, exploring the maze, or having their face painted! The marketplace offers many items that will appeal to the young and old alike!

In short, the Pirate festival offers so much fun for children, they are often loathe to leave at the end of the day! Families of all ages find fun throughout the day! Parents and grandparents will love the fun that is around for them too! More on that in my next letter!  

Affectionately, Anthea

Scavenger Hunt 2012

My dearest Lucy!

I have just had the most wonderful piece of news! At this year’s Pirate Festival, there will be something new! As you might imagine, in a Pirate village such as Dry Bluffs, there is always much talk about searching for treasure! This year, anyone who comes through the gates will have an opportunity to quest for a treasure – photographic gold!

Allow me to explain a little more – when you arrive, you may find the information booth and ask for your own copy of clues. Participants must simply solve the clues and take a picture (It is just like painting a portrait, I am told) of their answers! All pictures must be taken at some point during the festival – August 4^th, 5^th or 6^th. Those that complete all the answers will be entered into a draw for a prize. Even if you cannot solve all the clues, you can still submit your answers and be considered for a “Best picture” award, and also get a prize! The full rules are available on the newly updated website!

And also, for the wee pirates and young ones, there is to be a treasure hunt designed just for them! This one does not involve taking pictures, but it does involve solving clues and finding the answers, which are located all over the festival grounds! A completed answer sheet will ensure the children can have a chance to dig for buried treasure as well!

Looking forward to seeing you – this years festival is sure to be the best one yet!

Affectionately, Anthea

Dressing up for the Pirate Festival

What do I wear?

Many people choose to dress up to attend The Pirate Festival, which we love – it is great way to show your love of all things piratical. Putting on a costume can help you feel part of the action in a whole new way – whether you are dressing up as a family, forming your own band of pirates with friends, or simply wearing that “Ahoy” shirt that has been tucked into the back of a drawer! The important thing is that you are comfortable, so always take the weather into consideration when planning – and please remember to keep it family-friendly! For those who want the assurance that they won’t feel “silly” in their wardrobe choices, here are a few ideas – mix & match, or just do a piece or two, or go all out – whatever you choose, you will fit right in!

Remember that there are a wide variety of vendors at the Pirate Festival that carry excellent options for shirts, bodices, pants, skirts, hats and many other accessories that will allow you to build your own unique ensemble – pieces that are not available in stores. Halloween style pirate costumes are available in many stores – a quick solution, but you may see someone dressed very similarly to yourself! Most pirates like to express themselves through their clothing – so have some fun – it is almost impossible to go over the top!

Historically, Pirates tended to wear the fashion of the day – and while most pirate movies display a certain flamboyant style, most pirates probably would have tried to blend in a little more. For those who prefer a more historically accurate portrayal – The Pirate festival spans many cultures and years in history so any pieces reflecting clothing between the years of 1550 up to about 1790 will fit in very well, and whether you choose to portray Pirates, Navy, Mercenaries, or common folk, you will fit right in! Of course the pirate festival is all about fun, and so whether you choose to wear historically inspired garments, or take a cue from the movies, you will have a wonderful time! We are always delighted to see crossover genres at the pirate festival as well – so feel free to wear medieval, renaissance, or even Steampunk garb to the Pirate Festival if that is your particular flavour of fun!

For the closet raiders & thrift store shoppers:

Hats – look for something with a brim to protect your face from the sun – traditionally pirates are know for wearing large hats with a side (or 3) pulled up, and often ornamented with bunches of feathers. Either felt or straw make excellent choices.

Bandanas – the brighter the better – look for non winter scarves, or bandanas to wrap around your head, or waist as a belt. 

Shirts – big baggy shirts are a great option, and few ruffles (80’s fashion, anyone?) will fit right in. The colour is completely optional – white & black are usually the most popular. Remember that some fabrics (cotton, for example) are more summer friendly than others. T shirts – especially stripes automatically bring to mind nautical themes. Sleeves are optional – pirates did not have dress codes (but the navy did!) so perhaps a dress shirt without collar & sleeves may be an option for you.

Vest / Bodice / Jackets – Always optional – vests are appropriate for both men & women, and cooler than jackets. Some ladies prefer a bodice (like a fitted vest), or a corset style of top. Pirate coats are more difficult to find – but also hotter to wear! Vests and bodices are a great way to display some colour in your ensemble!

Belts – anything with big buckles, or scarves as sashes work well! Try looping a belt over a shoulder to make a bandoleer.

Pants / Skirt – these can be short or long! For pants, sailors tended to wear a wider pant (although Errol Flynn certainly liked his tights!) Some ladies like to layer a few skirts on top of each other, pulling up the outer one on one side to show off the lower layers.

Footwear – keep in mind that the Pirate Festival is an outdoor venue – grass covered for the most part. Boots are popular (but hot!), but sandals were also often worn on board ship.

A quick reminder about weapons – many pirates enjoy the opportunity to wear a weapon – please ensure you check our  Weapon Policy for a detailed description of what is acceptable. Parents – if you choose to equip your children with toy weapons, please ensure your children understand how to act responsibly – even a foam sword can be wielded improperly and cause injuries!

 Maybe dressing up isn’t your thing – you can still enjoy The Pirate Festival in your “normal” clothes! Dress for the weather – and remember that August is usually quite warm - we work hard to provide plenty of shade – at stages, for lunch, and in the tavern, but many guests find a hat and some sunscreen go a long way to making their day pleasant!

We are looking forward to seeing you at The Pirate Festival!

Treasure!

My Dearest Lucy!

I cannot believe I have failed to mention this in more detail! The most astonishing thing is on display in the midst of our village! No one can quite remember when precisely it appeared, but we have seen it so long, that at times it seems almost commonplace! It is the topic of much gossip in our village, as you will imagine – but I will not keep you in suspense any longer – in the midst of Dry Bluffs is displayed an immense pile of treasure, guarded by only a sign as protection! Now, as you might imagine, this is a bold thing in a village so full of pirates!

As of the writing of this letter, no one has dared get too close, but everyone who passes it pauses for a good long moment, considering the risks! Let me tell you, it is not just the pirates who eye this hoard – even I myself have considered what a treasure like that could mean for me! Imagine! The opportunity to move to somewhere that I could actually shop and get new gowns for any occasion! The opportunity to travel, and not be tied to this meager existence!

This treasure is on display, taunting each of us, but one thing stops us from crossing the line, one thing too terrible to risk. The sign I mentioned previously – states clearly and irrevocably that the treasure belongs to Blackbeard – the most fearsome pirate that any of us knows of! There is a general fear that if we were to take even a single piece, Blackbeard would appear and raze the entire village to the ground! This threat stops even the boldest among us from attempting anything!

I shall endeavour to keep you apprised of this situation as we get closer to the festival days on August 4^th, 5^th and 6^th – it may be that if you visit, you too will be able to behold this wonder with your own eyes! We shall all pray that nothing happens between now and then to change the status! Looking forward to seeing you!

Affectionately, Anthea!

Fun in the Mud!

My dearest Lucy!

It has been so long since last I wrote – I trust you will forgive me! They say the mail is uncommonly slow – most like the pirates are slowing the ships that so regularly travel between here and there! As I have yet to hear back from you, I can only hope that you have received my last few letters! At the risk of being repetitive, I will again entreat you to attend on August 4th, 5th, and 6th, beginning at ten in the morning!

Plans for this year’s festival days are well underway, and I thought I would tell you more about a unique entertainment that is very popular at the Pirate festival! Every day, running 2 or 3 times each day, we are pleased to host a Mud Show! Now – as you can imagine, I never choose to sit too close to the front, being careful about my gown – but it is a very popular entertainment with people of all ages! Despite the risk of getting too close a look at the mud, I try to watch as many as I can, for it is a rare form of art!

Imagine if you will, a pit full of mud – 2 feet deep at least, and larger than any of the other stages - a group of performers then appear, and reveal the story they will tell! Past years have involved belly flops of cosmic proportions – and the squeals of mixed delight and disgust fill the air as the actors get more and more immersed in their work! I have not yet heard what stories are in the works for this year – but every year there is something new, and even to watch the same story again is entertaining every time!

I shall save you a spot at the back – there is usually shade for such shows, but do ensure you have a hat as well – it is one of the most popular shows to see, and there is no guarantee that we shall be able to sit! Or – if you prefer, wear an older gown you do not mind getting muddy, and we shall brave the front!

Looking forward to seeing the festival through your eyes!

Affectionately,

Anthea

50 Things to do at The Pirate Festival...in no particular order!

1. Dress the part – raid your closets, the second hand store, the costume shop – everyone has something piratey to wear!
2.  Bring the kids, bring your grandparents, nephews, nieces, and anyone else who wants to have fun!

3. Watch a show – there are musical shows, shows with magic, shows that you will laugh at, or learn more about the village of Dry Bluffs!
4. Shop in the vendor’s market – jewelry, chain mail, weapons, clothing, leather goods, accessories, games, art, and so much more!
5. End up on stage as part of a show – some audience participation encouraged!
6. Come with friends – build a crew for your own ship!
7. Make new friends – with so many people attending, you are sure to make a new friend in the tavern, or in a shop, or in jail…
8. Talk with a pirate – or a townsperson – better yet, talk with both!
9. Play a game – games of skill, games of chance, games to keep the children busy, or just to watch!
10. Avoid getting muddy while you watch the mud show – or at least try!
11. Dare to sit in the muddy seats while you watch the mud show – the way it SHOULD be enjoyed!

12. Sing some piratey songs at the pub sing – sing along – no one sings worse then Cyrus!
13. Tuck the kids in, and return for the Captain’s Keg – a party with pirates – how often can you do that? 14. Enjoy some grog – if you haven’t tried it, you should! It’s a gift from Neptune himself!
15. Eat a turkey leg – or share with the family!
16. Pose for pictures by the pirate ship, or watch as your kids climb aboard!
17. Do some kids crafts – sailing boats, colouring pages, and more!
18. Follow a storyline that takes the entire day to unravel – interact with the cast to learn a bit more!
19. Listen to live music – which is available all day, and well into Saturday night!

20. Learn about blacksmithing
21. Visit the sea sage!
22. Enjoy our unique pirated fairy-tales – and watch out for the dragon!
23. Watch the Birds of Prey Show –  yes, the birds are live!
24. Enjoy lunch – a variety of offerings (including vegetarian options) can be savoured!
25. Test your skill at the archery range!
26. Buy a pirate a drink – or some grog for the Chandler’s wife (it was worth a try!)
27. Put the kids in jail, or your parents, or your siblings…
28. Prevent the gypsies from stealing your children! (Yes, you have to try to stop them, it may be a lawless town, but it’s not a lawless country!
29. Watch traditional belly dancing, and other traditional dances – perhaps even try it out!

30. Participate in the NEW photo scavenger hunt!
31. Hug a member of the mud crew…after the show!
32. Enjoy a pickle, yes, a real pickle.

 33. See what the Chandler is selling from his cart – and arrange supplies for your ship.
34. Find out more about the Treasure that seems to be the topic of a lot of conversations in Dry Bluffs
35. Steer clear of Blackbeard – but get to know his daughters – they may know more than they are saying!
36. Find out how loud a bellyflop into 2 feet of mud can be.

37. Enjoy plenty of shade while you eat your lunch, and watch the shows.
38. Learn how to play “loo” from a bunch of pirates – and make sure they don’t cheat!
39. Ask William Dampier about his last exploring trip
40. Dance a jig with Billy Bones – but don’t get caught in the cross fire!
41. Find out if Zoltan is really more than Adequate.
42. Learn about famous pirates
43. Try the kettlecorn, and take some home!
44. Watch a duel – in village of pirates this far from water, there is bound to be some sort of fight!

45. Enjoy live music at the Captain’s Keg by The Pirates McKenna, ScIrish & Eclectic Revival
46. Speak with the vendors to find out more about the products they offer – many of them hand made!
47. Learn more about the festival exploring the website: thepiratefestival.com
48. Want to get involved on a  whole different level – volunteer for the day!
49. Find a seat in the shade, and spend some time watching everyone else!
50. Enjoy your visit to Dry Bluffs so much that you return for a second or third day!

Photos used by gracious permission!

What else do you think should be added to this list?

Accosted by Mad Mary!

My Dear Lucy,

In a town as small as this, it is impossible to keep anything a secret. (Well, unless it is to be kept from my husband!) Word has gotten out that I am writing to you on a regular basis, and I was accosted (that is really the only word for it) this morning by none other than Mad Mary Teach. It matters little to her that you do not know her; she insists that her enclosed artwork be shared.

I have not dared write to you about her until today for fear that it should do the opposite of what I hope – I fear hearing this that you may decide that the Pirate Festival is no place for a fine lady such as yourself, but allow me to assure you that Mad Mary is relatively safe. She is mad – quite mad indeed, and can be counted on saying the oddest things imaginable at any time! More than one resident of our town walks the other way when they see her approaching, but most have learned to tolerate her little oddities. She can in fact be quite humorous – although she may share in a different type of jokes than the rest of us can comprehend.

She is, as you may have surmised, the daughter of none other than Edward Teach – you may have heard of him, although you more likely know him by his moniker “Blackbeard”, one of the fiercest pirates on the seas! Let me assure you – I have met the man, and “fierce” is a most apt description. He was among us just last year, and there was a good deal of discussion about treasure, and all that you might expect. As his daughters Mad Mary, and her sister Angelica do live among us for most of the year, one can never be sure when he might turn up again – for such a large man, he has an uncanny ability to appear with very little forewarning!

But, I digress – I was telling you of Mad Mary. I am including a portrait of her; that you may recognize her, and the aforementioned artwork that she insisted I include. Arguing with her does no good at all! I am sure that at one time logic ruled her mind, but what has replaced it must come from the depths of a storm. Some say that her father whispered one too many secrets into her ear, while others claim that she took one too many a spill on the decks, or spent too long trying to converse with fish. Whatever the reason, I have always found it helpful to treat her gently, and to do as she asks. Doing otherwise results in tantrums, sulks, and a Mary one cannot live with.

It is as well so few of the village can read or write – and most of all a good thing that Mad Mary cannot focus long enough to see what I have written. She is unpredictable, but is generally a nice person – and an exceptionally nice mad person. She is content to see that her artwork is enclosed in the envelope. I have no wish to hurt anyone’s feelings by my sharing these little descriptions of our village with you! I know I can trust your discretion – know that what I write, I do so for your edification, entertainment and to help convince you to attend on August 4th – 6th. Remember that the village is called Dry Bluffs, in the region of Country Heritage park, near Milton, Ontario. I shall hope to see you at the gate by ten in the morning!

Mary insists that I send you her love, and you know my fondness for you!

Affectionately,

Anthea

Some personal history...

My Dearest Lucy,

How kind you are to reply so quickly to my letter! It does my heart good to know that we can still talk so openly, even after not seeing each other for so long! So much has changed since we last were in company! I had quite forgotten that it had been so long, and that I would have to acquaint you with all that has happened over the last ten years! I am so glad you are enjoying life in London!

You will remember that after my parents succumbed to yellow fever that my eldest brother Edward held my keeping, in fact he took over Father’s textile business. He has since moved to the coast, so I no longer see him, but he is good enough to send me lengths of fabric from time to time, so that I can maintain some semblance of fashion in our backward little town! Seven years ago, Edward arranged a marriage for me with a man from Dry Bluffs – Woodrow Sparsgood by name, although most have gotten into the informal habit of calling him “Woody”, a name I quite despise! Life in a town like Dry Bluffs is a far cry from the civilities you described! When first we married, I was quite content – at that time the town had a bustling port – and Mr. Sparsgood, being a Chandler by trade had a thriving business. (In case you do not know, being not in a nautical place, a Chandler is the man who sells supplies to ships – everything from candles to water casks, rope, galley equipment, and a good deal more!) We had resources to spare, and I had a new gown every month! You will recall that when we were young, we had both vowed to marry pirates, and have all kinds of adventures – well, Mr. Sparsgood was not exactly a pirate – my brother Edward would never have stood for such a match, but Mr. Sparsgood is often described as a handsome man, and dealing with so many pirates meant that he often dresses the part, which led me to feel that I had the best of both worlds – the reputable side of being a prosperous merchant’s wife, and the slightly dangerous side of the less than savory characters who might be encountered!

Of course, everything changed when the waters receded. A town with no port brings no ships, and while those left in the town may still require staples such as candles, there is less call for most of the shipping supplies. I convinced my husband to try his hand at something different, and after much persuasion, he went on account with a ship, but it was short lived. A single fortnight he was gone, and returned still green – it appears that Mr. Sparsgood suffers from sea sickness. He returned to the Chandlery business, despite acknowledging that there would be less demand for anything he offered. I urged him to relocate to the coast, but he feels that the Sparsgood Chandler’s shop is his family’s heritage, and cannot be persuaded, cajoled, or reasoned with. I have attempted to be patient, but Lucy, the man will not be swayed! And so I find myself stuck in a marriage that brings me no comfort, with hardly any distractions except for our festival days, and the only hope I have of anything new to wear relies on the goodwill of a brother I have not seen these past six years!

Oh, do say that you will be able to arrange passage to visit in August! Our festival days will be so much the better for your company! We shall search every merchant’s tent for the prettiest things imaginable, and have lunch in the pub while listening to pirate themed music! It will be as if we were girls together again, watching all that goes on in the town, perhaps hiding behind a fan or a parasol! Of course, my husband will no doubt press me into service – he has devised a terrible torture for me, standing in the hot sun with a basket of wares to sell – but I promise it will only be for a little while – for, unbeknownst to him, I have an alternate supply of income, and can easily convince him that all my wares have been sold hours before he expects! The look on his face is priceless as he attempts to understand how I, a mere woman, can sell more in an hour than he can in an entire day! 

I am again at the end of my page – remember the dates are August 4 – 6th, and you must be at the front gate no later than 10 in the morning so that we have the whole day to spend together! I have not hardly begun to tell you of all that goes on – and I will spare a single line to mention the Captain’s Keg, and rumors of a Gypsy camp – but ask your questions in your reply, and I shall endeavor to tantalize you with anything you may expect at the fifth annual Pirate Festival in Dry Bluffs, in Milton this summer!

Affectionately,

Anthea

(Be so kind as to forward any queries from Lucy in the comments section!)

An Introduction by Correspondence

To my Dearest Lucy,

It has been ages since I’ve written, and for that I am most sorry! Things here in Dry Bluffs have been most dull since last we entertained so many people from around this area! It seems so long until our next such gathering on August 4 – 6th 2012. We will again welcome visitors to Country Heritage Park, in Milton, and hope that tales of our town full of Pirates will once again entertain people of all ages!

In order that you might know what to expect, I have resolved to write you a series of letters, with stories of what happened in recent years, and hints of what may occur this coming year. Summer seems so very far off, tis true, but planning such an event is a year long venture! You will not believe how much work goes on to make our little town ready! But then, you have never visited our town, so all this is new to you!

Our town is set near the cliffs of a place called Kelso, but others may know it as Glen Eden, and the locals know the surrounding area as Country Heritage Park. To us, of course, it is Dry Bluffs – so named for the fact that there is no water to be had for miles! Of course, there used to be water here – how else would a group of pirates and all that is needed to keep them arrive in such a place? But then the great drought happened, and the tides receded, and here we are in a Pirate town with no water! We have learned to adapt, however, and still hope that one day the tides will return. Until then, we make the most of what we have!

Dry Bluffs is full of interesting characters – I cannot wait to introduce you around! I shall go into more detail in my next letter, but a few things I shall let you know! I am part of the Women’s Council – a force that I wish had more power than it actually does. At times it feels as though we do more gossiping than anything else – it is, however, a wonderful way to learn about what goes on in the town! Of course, the pirates are always around – making mischief, and plotting raids, and generally looking for trouble. Our pub is always full of interesting music and characters, and we practice hard for our Pub Sing – full of saucy songs and old favorites! My husband, Mr. Sparsgood, is the local chandler, and he had a cart full of ships supplies that he often pushes around – and educates those less familiar with the way of life aboard ship. Of course, with no water around for miles, sales are difficult to achieve for those types of items. Speaking of sales, we have a most incredible marketplace – vendors of all types gather, and we really must go shopping together – jewelry, crafts, leather work, weapons, books, and so much more are available!

It seems I have run out of space – I shall endeavor to write more in my next letter, and regale you with tales of last year’s gathering, and perhaps even tell you more about the famous cookie incident – but you must not tell Mr. Sparsgood that I am still speaking of it, for he would be most upset!

Looking forward to seeing you in August!

Affectionately,

Anthea Sparsgood.