GALVESTON — Galveston hosted its first-ever Pirate Festival last week, wrapping up Sunday after a weekend of vendors, live entertainment, and costumed performers at Seawolf Park.

The event was organized by Johnny Steverson, who also leads the Galveston Steampunk Festival. He said the inspiration came from noticing a gap in the city’s lineup of themed events.

“We want people to know that Galveston is a fun place to work, live, and play,” Steverson said.

Earlier this month, the Galveston City Council recognized the festival with an official proclamation.

Among the vendors was Cadence Bomgardner, a pilot with Scallywag Air, who offered information on aviation while promoting biplane tours.

“We’ve been offering biplane tours around Galveston, just spreading the word about general aviation,” Bomgardner said.

The festival drew families from across the region, including Lauren Philley of Houston, who attended with her two young sons.

“We just heard about it a few days ago. They think pirates are pretty cool,” Philley said. “We’re trying to be more active now that they’re older.”

Organizers say they plan to bring the event back next year following its debut run.

_{Photo credit: KGTX 7/Pat O’Reilly}