OSWEGO, NY – Approximately 250 pirates and princesses descended on the Port City Wednesday evening behind the Captain’s Quarters.
The children, ages Pre-K through 10, began celebrating Harborfest more than a week early.
The Harborfest Children’s Committee hosted a Pirates and Princess Gala to celebrate the festival’s cultural component – the Caribbean Islands.
“There seems to be about as many princesses as there are pirates,” observed committee member Brian Chetney as he distributed “passports” to the young guests.
The passports contained maps of the various Caribbean islands and special currency, which the children could use at the tables in the large tent to purchase island foods such as chicken, rice and beans, crab cakes and tropical fruits.
The youngsters could also learn about the culture and history of each island.
The food was catered by G.S. Steamers, Port City Café, and Cake Creations by Jen Patterson.
The pirates and princesses could also try their hand at playing the steel drums or make Caribbean themed masks.
The audience was also treated to a glimpse of the children’s musical, “In Quest of Columbus.” Featuring a cast of children from around the county, the play will be performed several times throughout Harborfest on the Children’s Stage.
Rachel Lagoe said she enjoyed the gala’s food, especially the chicken.
“This is real good, I like it. It’s kind of sweet,” she said.
Noah Cordone also liked the chicken. The mixture of rice and beans, however, didn’t sit too well with him; he indicated he’d rather have more chicken.
He was celebrating his fourth birthday at the gala.
The cultural component highlights a certain country during Harborfest.
It has closed the gap around the globe by gearing pre-festival activities and workshops to capture the geography, culture, and arts of neighboring countries since its inception in 1999, according to Sean Callen, committee chair.
Pre-Children’s Parade workshops will be held (in Breitbeck Park) on July 20, 23 and 24 so children can create decorations for the parade.
Visit the Harborfest website at www.oswegoharborfest.com for the latest information regarding transportation options and performance schedules.
Harborfest is July 24-27.
