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Discover the Magic of Pirates in the Harbour Festival!
- Gulf Coast Music Radio
- Feb 27
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 27
A Glimpse into the Trop Rock Community
In a recent episode of the podcast Tropical Standard Time, hosted by Tee Recx on Gulf Coast Music Radio, Glenn Atwell shines as a key figure in the Trop Rock community! He shares exciting insights about the annual Pirates in the Harbour festival, set for March 27-29, 2026. This fantastic multi-venue event showcases local talent, emphasizes community support, and raises funds for the Trop Rock Music Association (TRMA) Artist Relief Foundation.
Atwell’s Journey into Trop Rock
Glenn Atwell has a rich 25-year career in IT, but his true passion lies in the music of Jimmy Buffett and the Trop Rock genre! His love for this vibrant music style blossomed during the COVID-19 pandemic. He began exploring virtual concerts featuring artists like John Patti and Boomer Blake. These online events sparked a transformational road trip in 2020, where he experienced 19 performances in just 14 days along Florida’s Gulf Coast! This journey not only deepened his love for the genre but also helped him establish his identity within the Trop Rock community. Meeting many artists face-to-face was a thrilling experience!
The Birth of Pirates in the Harbour
The Pirates in the Harbour festival has a heartwarming origin story! It began as a backyard house concert fundraiser called “Pirates of the Potomac.” This event aimed to support fellow Trop Rock artist Danny Rosado, who faced challenges after surgery that affected his singing voice. The inaugural concert featured four talented artists and successfully raised $8,000 in collaboration with the TRMA Artist Relief Foundation, allowing for tax-deductible donations!
Recognizing the potential for a broader community impact, Glenn and his wife Kelly decided to organize the festival annually. They shifted their focus from individual assistance to supporting the wider Trop Rock artist community. What a fantastic way to uplift others!
Event Growth and Relocation
The early days of Pirates in the Harbour took place in Pennsylvania, starting as backyard concerts. It gradually transitioned into a brewery venue until its closure. Relocating to Perdido Key & Pensacola, Florida, marked a strategic move to align with the Trop Rock culture and enhance community engagement! The festival has since evolved into a three-day extravaganza, which includes:
Kickoff Party: An intimate gathering at Concerts on Canal featuring Dave Freeman and Friends!
Main Event: A day of continuous performances at Warrior Beer Company, where the music never stops!
Sunday Brunch: A faith-based songwriter brunch featuring Wes Loper, with proceeds supporting local charity efforts!
Artist Selection Philosophy
Atwell emphasizes the importance of including local artists to foster a sense of connection with the community. The festival will highlight a diverse range of talent, showcasing artists who engage with the Trop Rock scene, including:
Justin Colvard: A prominent performer within the Gulf Coast music scene!
Bob Durand: A rock veteran with a passion for Trop Rock!
Greg Mihaly: An emerging artist hailing from Pensacola Beach!
Reggie Starrett: A popular performer known for his captivating shows!
Notably, the lineup also features the long-awaited Jonas Lawrence Band as the event's headliner! Their previous scheduling conflicts have finally aligned with this year's festival. Other anticipated acts include Dave Freeman, who hosts the kickoff event, and David Baker, a Missouri-based vocalist with remarkable range.
Event Logistics and Venues
The weekend's itinerary is carefully crafted to ensure a delightful experience for attendees! Here’s what to expect:
Friday Night Kickoff: Hosted at Concerts on Canal, featuring Dave Freeman and Friends, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM CT! Attendees are encouraged to bring their own food and drink for a cozy, intimate setting.
Saturday Main Event: Taking place at Warrior Beer Brewery from noon to 11:00 PM CT, with continuous performances and anticipated food trucks providing nourishment! There’s plenty of space for attendees to relax and enjoy the event.
Sunday Sendoff Brunch: Also at Concerts on Canal, featuring Wes Loper from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM CT! Enjoy a gourmet brunch prepared by a local chef to benefit charitable causes.
Partnerships and Community Support
The relocation of Pirates in the Harbour to Florida has led to increased collaboration with local organizations, venues, and enthusiastic volunteers! Glenn and Kelly independently manage the event while receiving critical assistance through:
Sponsorship from Box 7 Media
!Support from Warrior Beer owner Gary, who has embraced the festival following community endorsements!
Collaboration with Judd Williams at Concerts on Canal, providing essential venue support for Friday and Sunday events!
Local volunteers and artists eager to contribute their efforts to the festival’s success!
The atmosphere embodies the ethos of Trop Rock culture—built on friendship, support, and a shared love for music!
Core Values and Philosophy
“A guiding principle for Atwell is: ‘Take care of those who take care of me,’” This principle underpins the core values that drive Pirates in the Harbour! The festival’s motto, “You can’t spell parties without pirates,” captures the fun, inclusive spirit that resonates throughout the event. It promotes charitable giving and community engagement! Personal relationships and word-of-mouth marketing remain vital for promoting the festival and fostering trust within the Trop Rock scene.
The Heart of the Festival
The Pirates in the Harbour festival is more than just music; it’s a celebration of community! It brings together fans, artists, and local businesses in a vibrant atmosphere. The festival creates a space where everyone can enjoy the rhythm of Trop Rock while supporting a good cause.
Conclusion
The Pirates in the Harbour festival represents a labor of love for Glenn and Kelly Atwell, bolstering the Trop Rock community through the power of music, charity, and camaraderie! Transitioning from a grassroots backyard concert to a vibrant multi-day festival on Florida’s Gulf Coast, the event embodies the spirit of Trop Rock—celebrating coastal culture, supporting artists, and fostering unity among fans in an inclusive environment. Its ongoing success can be attributed to local partnerships, committed volunteers, and a shared dedication to uplift the community that makes Trop Rock unique and cherished!
Join us in celebrating this incredible festival! You won’t want to miss out on the fun, music, and community spirit!
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