“The Pirates Return” to Mercer Island’s 2015 Summer Celebration festival, bringing sword fights, sea shanties, Calypso the Parrot, a black powder and cannon show, and other swashbuckler fun to the island. From the Grand Parade to the fireworks festivities, it’s an action-packed weekend, and you won’t want to miss out on the fun.

Here are just a few of the highlights:

Grand Parade – The parade kicks off the weekend’s events. It starts at 10 am on Saturday, June 11th. The parade begins at the interesection of SE 27th St & 78th Ave SE (location of Mercer Island Pediatric Dentistry), and travels south along 78th to Mercerdale Park.

Children’s Fun Zone – Mercerdale Park will be transformed into every child’s dream-come-true with bouncy houses, train rides, obstacles courses, arts and crafts activities, and so much more. To participate, parents must purchase tickets or wrist bands for their children.  But don’t get caught in a long line – get your wrist bands in advance, which are available for purchase at the Community Center from July 5th through the 10th.

Boat Rides –  Argosy Cruises is hosting narrated boat rides around the island. Rides are 1.5 hours and depart from Luther Burbank Park docks. Learn fun facts and Mercer Island history. Snacks and drinks provided. The boat rides take place on Saturday with three sailing times, including 10:30 am, 12:30 pm, and 2:30 pm.  Advance tickets required.

Fireworks Show – The Summer Celebration fireworks show takes place at Luther Burbank Park with the display beginning around 10:15 pm. Get their early for food vendors, live music, and three big bouncy houses for the kids. Glow sticks, necklaces, and other light up toys will also be available for purchase.

Sounders Women’s Soccer Match – The Seattle Women’s Sounders will play the Arizona Strikers in a match on Saturday, July 11, at 3 pm, at the Mercer Island High School.  The match is sponsored by Mercer Island FC, and tickets are available for purchase for $10.  A pre-game clinic also gives young island players the opportunity to get one-hour of high level instruction from Sounders staff and players. NOTE: Game has been cancelled. Pre-game clinic will still take place.

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg!  Be sure to learn more about other event activities and attractions, including the Obliteride Kids Ride, musical and theatre performances, car show, live music performances, the Swedish Pancake Breakfast, and so much more.

The weekend schedule and complete event information is available on the City’s website HERE.