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Trop Rock Thrives: Pirates in the Harbour Festival
- Gulf Coast Music Radio
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
Introduction
In a recent episode (view interview below after reading) of the podcast Tropical Standard Time, hosted by Tee Recx on Gulf Coast Music Radio, Glenn Atwell emerged as a prominent figure in the Trop Rock community, sharing insights into the annual Pirates in the Harbour festival. Scheduled for March 27-29, 2026, this multi-venue event highlights local talent and emphasizes community support while raising funds for the Trop Rock Music Association (TRMA) Artist Relief Foundation.
Atwell’s Journey into Trop Rock
Glenn Atwell, with a 25-year career in IT, has long cherished the music of Jimmy Buffett and the Trop Rock genre. His deep connection to Trop Rock solidified during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he began exploring virtual concerts featuring artists such as John Patti and Boomer Blake. These online events paved the way for a transformational road trip in 2020, during which he witnessed 19 performances in 14 days along Florida’s Gulf Coast. This trip not only deepened his passion for the genre but also established his identity within the Trop Rock community before meeting many artists face-to-face.
The Birth of Pirates in the Harbour
The inception of Pirates in the Harbour dates back to a backyard house concert fundraiser initially called “Pirates of the Potomac.” This event aimed to support fellow Trop Rock artist Danny Rosado, who faced challenges following surgery that impacted his singing voice. The inaugural concert featured four artists and successfully raised $8,000 in collaboration with the TRMA Artist Relief Foundation, enabling tax-deductible donations.
Recognizing the potential for broader community impact, Glenn and his wife Kelly committed to organizing the festival annually, shifting their focus from individual assistance to supporting the wider Trop Rock artist community.
Event Growth and Relocation
The initial phases of Pirates in the Harbour took place in Pennsylvania, beginning as backyard concerts and gradually transitioning 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 festival, 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.
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, whose 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 includes a carefully crafted schedule to ensure a delightful experience for attendees:
Friday Night Kickoff: Hosted at Concerts on Canal, featuring Dave Freeman and Friends, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM CT, encouraging attendees to bring their own food and drink in 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 and 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, serving 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,’” underpinning the core values that drive Pirates in the Harbor. The festival’s motto, “You can’t spell parties without pirates,” captures the fun, inclusive spirit that resonates throughout the event while promoting 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.
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.
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