Jonesville Pirate Festival 2025
On July 5, 2025, the fishing village of Jonesville, Roatan, will come alive with music, laughter, and the clinking of (rum) glasses as it hosts the much-anticipated Jonesville Pirate Festival—a community celebration that pays homage to the island’s legendary pirate past. Hosted in partnership with ZOLITUR (Zona Libre Turística de las Islas de la Bahía), the event is more than just a day of fun; it's a nod to centuries of maritime history and the resilience of one of Roatán’s oldest settlements.
Why Jonesville? A Hidden Gem with a Deep Legacy
Jonesville is one of Roatan’s most historic villages, located on the island’s southeast coast. Settled in the late 1800s, this small but spirited community was originally established by seafaring families of British descent—many of whom were descendants of settlers and mariners who had come through the Bay Islands when the region was a hotspot for piracy and colonial conflict.
Unlike the more developed areas of West Bay and West End, Jonesville has retained its rustic charm and strong cultural identity. Its natural harbor, narrow mangrove channels, and protective coves once made it a safe haven for pirates and traders, shielding their ships from view while offering easy access to the Caribbean Sea. The village’s seafaring roots are still visible today in its traditional wooden homes on stilts, its fishing culture, and of course, in its community events like the Pirate Festival.
The Pirate Connection: Why Roatan Was a Pirate Magnet
During the 17th and 18th centuries, Roatan became a base of operations for many famous pirates due to its strategic location along key shipping routes and its proximity to the Spanish colonies in Central America. The island was rich in fresh water, food, and hidden bays—making it an ideal hideout for seafarers who sought refuge from Spanish naval patrols or simply wanted a quiet place to rest and resupply.
Some of the most infamous pirates believed to have passed through Roatan include:
Henry Morgan – The notorious Welsh privateer who once attacked Spanish strongholds in the region and likely used the Bay Islands as a staging ground.
John Coxen (Coxon) – A buccaneer whose name some claim inspired "Coxen Hole," Roatan’s capital town.
Edward “Blackbeard” Teach – While there's no conclusive record, legends on the island suggest his fleet may have stopped on Roatán for provisions.
Roatan’s history as a pirate haven is still felt in the island’s culture and local lore, making events like the Pirate Festival a fitting tribute to the colorful past that shaped this Caribbean outpost.
A Modern-Day Festival with Heart and Purpose
The Jonesville Pirate Festival started as a grassroots community effort—originally meant to raise funds for public works such as road paving and community services. Over the years, it has grown into an iconic cultural event where locals and tourists come together to celebrate the village’s maritime heritage and community pride.
What sets the festival apart is that it is organized by the people of Jonesville themselves, with the help of local businesses, artists, and now partners like ZOLITUR. While it captures the fun and fantasy of pirate life, its mission is grounded in real community impact—supporting neighborhood projects, local vendors, and tourism development.
What to Expect on July 5th: A Festival of Food, Fun, and Folklore
According to the official event poster, festivities kick off at 2:00 PM and continue well into the evening. Here’s what’s in store:
Costumes and Pirates Everywhere: Attendees of all ages are encouraged to dress in pirate gear—from tricorn hats to eyepatches and even mermaid tails.
The Pirate Parade: Expect a whimsical procession of decorated cars, floats, and boats styled like pirate ships. Music, dancing, and community spirit fill the streets as the parade makes its way through the village.
Local Food and Drink: Traditional dishes such as conch soup, tamales, pickled crab, fried plantains, and yuca cakes are served by local cooks. Wash it all down with fresh coconut water—or something stronger.
Games and Music: Live bands perform everything from island beats to reggae, while children enjoy games, face painting, and pirate-themed contests.
The event promises “Food • Music • Games • Pirates • Parade and Much More!”, making it one of the most vibrant and community-driven festivals on the island.
Why You Should Attend
Whether you're a history buff, a curious traveler, or just in search of a good time, the Jonesville Pirate Festival offers a unique cultural experience. It’s one of the few events on Roatan that lets visitors step into the island’s pirate past while actively participating in its present-day community life.
If you’re staying elsewhere on the island, Jonesville is about a 60–40-minute drive from West Bay or French Harbour, but the scenic coastal ride is well worth the trip. Come for the pirates, stay for the people, and leave with a deeper appreciation for Roatan’s rich and rebellious history.