Events

Fort Walton Beach issues noise alert for Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival

Residents can expect simulated gunfire, explosions and fireworks during the two-day festival at Fort Walton Beach Landing, according to city officials.

Jared Williams

The City of Fort Walton Beach has issued a noise alert for residents of Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island ahead of the 69th annual Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival this weekend.

The festival, taking place at the Fort Walton Beach Landing on Friday, May 16, and Saturday, May 17, will feature mock battles and fireworks that will create loud noises in the area.

On Friday, a mock sea battle between the Billy Bowlegs Pirate Krewe and soldiers from the 6th Ranger Training Battalion will occur in front of the Fort Walton Beach Landing. Simulated gunfire and explosions will take place on Santa Rosa Sound between 6:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. as Captain Billy arrives.

Later Friday evening, a fireworks show over Santa Rosa Sound will begin around 8:45 p.m., contributing additional noise to the area.

The festivities continue Saturday when Captain Billy Bowlegs will announce his arrival with mock cannon fire as his ship passes beneath the Brooks Bridge en route to the Fort Walton Beach Landing between 3:30 p.m. and 4 p.m.

City officials apologized for any inconvenience the noise may cause and thanked the community for their patience.

Residents seeking additional information can contact the Fort Walton Beach Police Department at 850-833-9546.

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