If you’re looking for something to do the weekend of September 10^th, embark on a journey of the imagination -- the annual Tall Ships Festival begins Friday evening with a Sunset Parade at Dana Point.

Budget activities

In the park, free activities include a chantey concert (sailor work songs, or “chants”), an arts and crafts show, a living history encampment, and food and vendor booths.

At the Baby Beach Park, there will be a Port Royal Privateer interactive encampment, gold panning and treasure hunting at the Pioneer booth, knot tying races and face painting. Pricing varies.

For $10 per adult, $8 for children over two years of age, you can purchase a Pirate Adventure Pass, That’s when the imaginary voyage really gets fun! The pass lets you tour the Tall Ships, grants admission into the Ocean Institute, and allows brig activities aboard the Pilgrim. Brig activities include storytelling, pirate games, and interactive demonstrations. Inside the aquarium, kids can learn how to walk and talk like a friendly pirate, listen to stories of lore, and explore the living sea creatures’ tanks.

Almost-break-the bank activities

Now if you have some money burning a hole in your pocket, and you’ve always dreamed of sailing on a Tall Ship, then you are in luck! Opportunities to sail are all weekend starting on Friday, with a Sunset Tall Ships Parade – priced at $45 per adult, $34 per child (ages 4-12). Of course, watching from the shore is free.

You can experience Cannon Battle Cruises for $65 per adult; $51 per child (again, ages 4 – 12).

Or, sail on the R/V Sea Explorer for a lesser fee for a close view of the activities. Last year was a blast, so I’m sure this year will be too -- a great day trip for the whole family!