Contraband Days

Contraband Days Pirate Festival
April 26-May 8, 2011
**Check back for 2012 Dates**
www.contrabanddays.com

Click Here to read Jean Lafitte's poem:
"Ode to the Old Lakefront!"

What's it all about?
How many cities have an annual tradition where the mayor is forced to walk the plank and pirates rule for two weeks? Only one-Lake Charles! That's right, during the annual Contraband Days Pirate Festival. Oh, and this festival is for everyone, not "just" pirates!

Legendary pirate Jean Lafitte is said to have frequented Lake Charles, docking his boat right along the sandy shores. Rumor has it that he's even buried treasure somewhere along its banks. Venture down to the Lake Charles Civic Center seawall and visit with the modern-day "pirates," in full regalia on boats out on the lake. On the first night of Contraband Days, witness the cannon fire as the citizens of Lake Charles try to defend the seawall, only to have the pirates capture the mayor, put him on trial and send him to the lake!

During the two-week long festival, don't miss the opportunity to stroll through the carnival rides and games, or take in some of the live music and fantastic performances going on during the festival.

For the latest updated schedule of events for Contraband Days, visit www.contrabanddays.com, or call the festival office at (337) 436-5508.

Contraband Days was named a Top 20 event by the Southeast Tourism Society for the month of April and a Top 100 Event in North America by the American Bus Association.