Pirate Festival on the Dock sails into Albert Dock Liverpool on September 10-11 – and this year will feature the all new, Pirates and Mermaid Parade – a chance for budding buccaneers and wannabe mythical creatures of all ages to get involved!
Inspired by the legendary Coney Island Mermaid Parade in America, the Pirates and Mermaid Parade will be one of the highlights at the new-look Pirate Festival on the Dock – a free family swashbuckling spectacular. Part of the Albert Dock Liverpool 175 strategy, the event will feature thrilling live action under sail, theatrical swordfights and breathtaking stunts, this year interwoven with local folklore and the fascinating heritage of the Liverpool privateers who once plundered the seven seas.
The Mermaid of Black Rock, who, according to legend appeared off the coast of north Wirral, will lead the cast of pirates, drummers and of course, members of the public in their best costumes, on a magical parade around The Strand and back into Albert Dock (starting from Hartley Quay at 12.30pm on the Saturday only). Prizes will be bestowed on the best-dressed group and individual!
Claire Rawlinson, marketing manager, Albert Dock Liverpool, said: “We are thrilled to announce this exciting new element to this year’s Pirate Festival on the Dock – and we encourage people of all ages to come dressed in their finest pirate and mermaid attire and join in what promises to be a visual treat.
“Community groups are invited to take part in the parade – be it the local Cadets, Girl Guides and Scouts groups, companies looking for a bit of team bonding with a difference, fashion and performing arts students, charities, and simply those who love to dress up and have fun.
“We want to evoke a carnival spirit at Albert Dock as we celebrate the city’s rich and fascinating maritime history.”
A storyteller will also regale our enthusiastic participants with the fantastical local story of The Mermaid of Black Rock – who is said to have lured Liverpool sailor John Robinson to his death at Black Rock near Leasowe Castle. It’s a tale of magic, mystery, and deception, that will leave children and adults alike mesmerised.
Groups wanting to take part in the parade need to contact [email protected]. Individuals can simply join in on the day.
For more information on upcoming events at Albert Dock, please visit the Albert Dock website. Join us on Twitter – @theAlbertDock #PirateDock16
