Pirate themes have always been a fun choice for parties, but even more so now with the popularity of the blockbuster "Pirates of the Caribbean" movies. Johnny Depp has certainly given new life to the fantasy of playing a pirate, adding fun and comedy to the already exciting seafaring adventures. So, why not plan an adventure of your own this year and host a swashbuckling fun pirate party.



Make a list of friends and acquaintances you would like to invite to your pirate party and assign each one of them their own pirate name. Use online pirate lingo translators to create fun names like Butterfingers Alena and Ian Deadbones.

Include pirate wording on your invitations and print them on aged paper. If it's a costume party, be sure to include that information also.

Ahoy thar Mateys!

Ye`re invited t'a pirate party

(date, time and location)

Take Note Ye Scalliwags...

Dress like a buccaneer if ye dare.

We have PRIZES fer best pirate costume.

Roll up the printed invitations and tie them with some burlap twine. Put each invitation in a bottle and attach a pirate label with the pirate name of the invited guest, along with an aka mention of their real name. (Mini champagne bottles work well for this.) Pour some sand or salt in the bottles along with a few small seashells and the invitation. Hand deliver the invitations to friends or use plastic bottles instead so that you can address and mail them.

If you have the creativity and means, decorate a room with old chests, barrels and tables made from weathered wood. Borrow or buy uniquely shaped bottles from second hand shops and flea markets. Clean them thoroughly and fill them with party beverages like cola and gingerale. Label them with fun pirate stickers, like "Non-Groggy Pirate's Rum". Mix up a disgusting variety of liquids like vinegar, cherry juice and hot sauce and label the bottle, "Drink if You Dare."

Pirate-themed games and activities will make your party complete.

. Set up tables for playing cards and "Liar's Dice".

. Throw in a "Pirates of the Caribbean" trivia competition and then watch one of the movies.

. Have guests try and decipher the meanings of various pirate words.

. Send your guests on a pirate scavenger hunt that leads to a treasure chest of delicious treats.

. Instead of bobbing for apples, try searching for a candy eyeball in a gooey mess of jello and pasta.

. Challenge your guests to a sword fight dual on a low balance beam (use safety precautions).

. Hand out pirate coins to use for various challenges and bets throughout the night and give a prize to the person with the most coins at the end of the party.

When it's time to send your guests home, a great favor to give is a game of "Liar's Dice". Print and roll up the instructions and place them in an opaque cup (They have great antique looking one's at the dollar store). Include 5 dice, some chocolate coins, candy eyeballs, and whatever treats or trinkets you wish to include. Wrap the cups with clear cellophane, tie with burlap twine and finally, attach a pirate sticker or thank you tag.

So, what ye be waitin? fer? Start plannin? yer swashbucklin? fun pirate party.