Pirates invade Ventura harbor

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 live-action shows, astrology chart readings and visitor participation.

Watch fer pirate look-alikes such as captains Jack Sparrow, Hook and 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.

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 Margarita Villa rum tasting and watch belly dancers outside The Greek by the Harbor. Peddlers'll be hawkin' pirate-y hats, jewelry, swords, gifts, flags and gear. Specialty shops'll be givin' out free 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) 6421393 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 lot 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.