Lakeshore Pyrates Head Club members dressed as pirates in front of their floating boat Venture. Courtesy photo.
By Joshua Elie
Most people in this area know about Ludington’s beautiful beach, the romantic stroll down the breakwall toward the lighthouse to see the Badger set sail into a spectacular sunset, and gathering outside House of Flavors for world-famous ice cream. These activities are a “must” if you have not yet enjoyed them.
Another “must,” not as well-known, is meeting the charming men and women of the Lakeshore Pyrate Head Club. This is a friendly and fun group standing aboard the mighty Venture, a fine double-masted, 30-foot schooner that magically “floats” above land. Club members host fundraisers and volunteer for many important causes.
The “Y” is not a typo. I wouldn’t call them “pirates” in the truest sense because they won’t steal from you, but they will take donations. I also wouldn’t call them “Parrot Heads” as their motto is “Party for a Purpose.” You will still find them dressed like pirates and likely hear Jimmy Buffet in the background.
Their biggest event of the year is the Buccaneer Bash, always held the third Saturday in July at the Ludington Boat Club on Lake Street. This year marks the club’s 20th bash. Attendees are encouraged to dress as pirates for the event and are greeted at the gate ($5 adults and children free) with a lei. They will enjoy “trop (tropical) rock for your Caribbean soul,” performed by Greg and Jeff Grossenbacher, popularly known up and down the western Michigan shoreline as “Two Dudes in Flip Flops.” Beverages will be served from the boat club’s bar and plenty of food trucks will be on hand. Any jolly-sweet child will be welcomed aboard the mystical Venture, as the bash includes kids’ games and raffles.
Last year, more than 500 attended the Bash and helped raise $12,000. During a previous “Blast Off Into Summer” spring fundraiser, the club offered live music, raffles and prizes and raised $1,500. Members look forward to hosting this event again. Every dollar raised throughout the year is presented to the Alzheimer’s Association at its Fall Walk, to be held Oct. 1 this year at the Waterfront Park in Ludington.
On the afternoon of Oct. 29, amidst the festivities in downtown Ludington, you will also find the Venture full of Pyrates sharing their grand booty of candy. And, if ye be of jolly smile, ye may get a picture with a Pyrate and the magical Venture.
Other places you will find the Pyrates include local libraries, schools and the Sandcastles Children’s Museum for book readings and skit performances. Throughout November, they help the Salvation Army by ringing bells and spreading Christmas cheer.
More annual events where Pyrates gather ⸺ right there in Ludington, Michigan ⸺ include June’s Blessing of the Boats (held on the 11th) and Lakestride Races (on the 25th this year), when they shoot their cannon to start the races and ring the bell as people cross the finish line. They’re also found at the Final Friday Experience (a street fair ordinarily held the last Friday of the month, May-Sept.) and the post-Thanksgiving Aglow on the Avenue Holiday Parade, (to be held Nov. 26 this year), when they light up the Venture … to the delight of those along the route.
So, hoist your main sail and set your compass due Ludington, then shake hands and dance with a Pyrate.
For more information about the club, visit their Facebook page: Lakeshore Pyrate Heads Ludington
Joshua Elie is a musician and retired building contractor. He now enjoys life as a homesteader.
