Save The Date: 5 Summer Events at Put-in-Bay

From Jeeps and fireworks to pirates and patriotic celebrations, Put-in-Bay’s summer schedule offers options for all kinds of South Bass Island visitors. The Lake Erie island is home to unique summer attractions and special events that draw thousands throughout the season. Don your best pirate garb for Pyrate Fest, keep your eye to the skies during Boom at the Bay, check out sweet ides at Jeep Fest  and grab a photo with the World’s Largest Rubber Duck. In late July, Declaration 250 brings history to life with commemorative programs honoring America’s founding. Here’s a look at some of the biggest vents happening at Put-in-Bay in summer 2026.

Pyrate Fest | June 26–27
Put-In-Bay’s three-day Pyrate Fest returns this summer with even more swashbuckling fun for the whole family. Visit the Pyrate Encampment & Marketplace, view live demonstrations, cannon fire and take part in treasure hunts. Costumes are encouraged at this immersive festival teeming with legendary pirates and mermaids. Events throughout the weekends include the 21+ Pyrate Pub Crawl, antique car parade and other historical demonstrations and interactive activities.   

Boom at the Bay | July 4
Celebrate Independence Day on Put-In-Bay with the annual Boom at the Bay fireworks show. Gather downtown or near Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial for some of the best views of the night sky. The show starts at 10 p.m. and brings together visitors and locals for a traditional celebration of America’s birthday.

Put-In-Bay Jeep Fest | July 10–12
Celebrate Jeep culture at the 11th annual Put-In-Bay Jeep Fest on July 10 to 12. The weekend of festivities kick off with a pre-party at Frosty’s on Thursday followed by a Campground Crawl on Friday. The Jeep Show begins at 11 a.m. on Saturday at Heineman’s Winery, ending at 3 p.m. with a parade. Jeep Show tickets are available for purchase through EventBrite.

World’s Largest Rubber Duck | July 10–12
The beloved, 61-foot-tall rubber duck, Mama Duck, arrives in Put-In-Bay on July 10 through 12. Mama Duck and 10-foot duckling, Timmy, will be perched on the island for a weekend of fun and photo opportunities. The event kicks off on Friday with a special preview, followed by a weekend of games and duck-themed souvenirs, including an exclusive “Don’t Give Up The Ship” collectable.

Declaration 250 | July 31–Aug. 2
Gather at Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial for a patriotic event celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The event will include ceremonies, guest speakers, historical reenactments, and educational and family-friendly activities. Declaration 250 is presented by the Perry Group and the Lake Erie Heritage Foundation.

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