Pirates invade Ventura Harbor Village

Arrhh, mateys. Keep a weather eye out fer pirates invadin' Ventura Harbor Village from 1 to 4 p.m. Sat. and Sun., July 19 and 20 on Spinnaker Drive off of Harbor Boulevard in Ventura for the third annual Pirate Days.

There be professional pirate liveaction shows, pirate astrology chart readings and visitor participation.

Watch world champion knife and ax thrower Pirate Jack Dagger. Meet George the Giant, more than 7 feet tall, and stand in awe at his sword-swallowing skills.

Keep a keen eye out for pirate look-alikes such as Capt. Jack Sparrow, Capt. Hook and Capt. Morgan. Pick yer favorite rat to win the Pi "Rat" Races.

Kids and grown-ups can dress like a pirate for daily costume contests and win tickets to Legoland and Disneyland. Seek treasure in a Children's Hunt throughout the Harbor Village.

Sing shanties with strolling pirate bands Unkle Monkey and The Pirates Charles.

Learn the lingo at the "Talk Like a Pirate" show, ride the pirate train or get a free pirate tattoo or face painting.

Adult pirates can slake their thirst at the MargaritaVillarumta st ing and watch belly dancers outside The Greek by the Harbor. Peddlers'll be hawkin' pirate merchandise, pirate hats, jewelry, swords, gifts, flags and gear. Specialty shops'll be givin' out free pirate booty.

Sail the seas on daily tours by Ventura Boat Rentals or take the Island Packers Pirate Cruise at 7 p.m. Saturday. Call (805) 642-1393 to stake a claim.

The Greek at the Harbor serves up a hearty pirate pancake breakfast from 9 to 11 a.m. Sunday. 'Tis free to enter the event and park. Ride the Ventura Harbor Village Free Shuttle from the parking ot at Schooner Drive and Harbor Boulevard from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.

If ye seek more knowledge, call (805)477-0470 or visit www.venturaharborvillage.com.