Talk Like a Pirate Day

Talk Like a Pirate Day is a holiday that gives everyone the chance to unleash their inner Jack Sparrow. The holiday is celebrated on September 19.

History

The origin of Talk Like a Pirate Day dates back to 1995, when two friends from Oregon created the idea as a joke to share with their friends. The idea caught on, and in 2002, Dave Barry—a columnist known for his humorous writing and stand-up performances—learned about the holiday. He found it amusing and wrote a newspaper article about it. After that, the holiday quickly spread, gaining fans across the United States.

The popularity of the holiday coincided with the release of the Pirates of the Caribbean film series featuring Jack Sparrow. These movies became legendary, and the image of the daring pirate won the hearts of many. Of course, most of what we now think of as “pirate-speak” was not actually used by real pirates, but today it’s all about having fun. People celebrate Talk Like a Pirate Day by imagining themselves as swashbucklers, participating in themed events, and visiting amusement parks. The carefree and festive atmosphere is what makes this holiday special.

Interesting Facts

• The romantic image of pirates as free and proud sea robbers is not entirely accurate. Often, pirates operated with the approval of a government, which allowed them to attack enemy ships.
• It’s a myth that all pirates were uneducated criminals. Survival on the high seas required intelligence and skill, and many captains were well-read and educated.

How to Take Part

Spend the day with friends or family at pirate-themed events, or visit an amusement park. For a complete experience, dress up in pirate costumes—either store-bought or homemade.

If you prefer to stay at home, watch pirate movies such as Pirates of the Caribbean or read classic adventure books like “Treasure Island.”

When is Talk Like a Pirate Day in 2025?

Talk Like a Pirate Day is observed on September 19 each year.

Observations