BRADENTON--The Pittsburgh Pirates are hosting the fifth annual Pirate Fest on March 6 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m followed by the Pirates' Spring Training game against the Toronto Blue Jays at 1:05 p.m. at McKechnie Field. This is a free event, but fans must have tickets in order to attend the game.
Pirate Fest 2011 is a family event for kids of all ages and will take place on 9th Street West in front of the McKechnie Field Ticket Office. Pirate fans will have the opportunity to meet and get autographs from some of the Pirate players, coaches or Pirate legends. In addition, fans can test their arm strength with the speed pitch while the kids jump around in Pirates' bounce house.
Fans can also create a keepsake from the event and put their image into McKechnie Field with a free postcard. The DeSoto Crewe and their Pirate Ship will also be on hand for fans to enjoy.
Beginning at 8:00 a.m. on March 6, 9th Street West will be closed to all traffic between 13th Avenue West and 17th Avenue West. All traffic will be rerouted to 14th Street West.