Party like a pirate at the River City Pirate Ball in Richmond

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Party like a pirate, sip swashbuckling cocktails and even support local charity efforts at the upcoming River City Pirate Ball in Richmond.

Starting at 7 p.m. on Saturday, July 19, the River City Pirate Ball will take over the Historic Hofheimer Building, located at 2818 W. Broad Street. According to organizers, the event -- meant for those ages 21 and older -- promises to be a "celebration of pirate history and high-energy fun."

"Richmond, once a bustling riverside stop for pirates navigating the James River, provides the perfect backdrop for this immersive 21+ experience," organizers said.

A "Skallywag Happy Hour" will kick off the event, running from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Hofheimer's 2nd Floor Lounge. It will be hosted by the Blackbeard's Crew -- a historical reenactment pirate group from Hampton, known for performing in the city's annual Blackbeard Pirate Festival.

The full Pirate Ball will begin at 8 p.m., when the doors to the main room open. It will end at 1 a.m. on Sunday, July 20.

The River City Pirate Ball, set for July 19, 2025. (Photo: AfterDarkRVA.com)

Attendees can expect pirate-themed cocktails, featured and roaming photographers, music and a "Best-Dressed Pirate and Wench Contest." There will also be a "Gold Coin Quest" that will require attendees to interact with each other in pursuit of "a prize worthy of a true buccaneer," according to organizers.

All the while, Richmond nonprofit FeedMore will be hosting a Charity Canned Food Drive. Attendees are asked to bring canned goods to donate. Every two cans an attendee donates will earn them a ticket for the ball's raffle.

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Organizers highly encourage attendees to wear costumes, but they aren't required. Pirate and wench attire, as well as Renaissance, colonial and Victorian-inspired looks are all welcome.

"With local ties to both history and revelry, the River City Pirate Ball is poised to be one of Richmond's most immersive themed events of the summer," organizers said.

This event is co-produced by Markster Con Productions and DC Creators. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.