Buccaneer Days
Corpus Christi, Texas

When: late April, early May

Where: American Bank Center Arena at 1901 N. Shoreline Blvd.

Tales of pirate Jean Lafitte still linger along the Coastal Bend, and since 1938 Corpus Christi has celebrated its pirate-filled past with a twelve-day soiree that offers a treasure trove of entertainment for the whole family. Rodeo:

Stars of the pro rodeo circuit thrill the arena audience with their skill in barrel racing, saddle bronc riding and steer wrestling. The crowd will also cheer on young local talent who compete in the calf scramble and Mutton Bustin' competitions.

Competitions: Barbecue connoisseurs can munch to the music of strolling mariachis at the BBQ Challenge, where tips in each participant's donation jar determines the outcome of the People's Choice contest. Held just outside of the American Bank Center Arena, the sounds of Tejano and country tunes from a variety of live musical acts greet the attendees who come to sample such finger-lickin' fare as grilled buffalo wings and beef brisket.

Parade: The trill of a band director's whistle trumpets the arrival of the Illuminated Night Parade to Leopard Street, where a crowd of 200,000 enjoy a procession of lighted floats and marching bands.

Children's Activities: The multi-colored lights that twinkle on the frame on the ferris wheel shine as brightly as the smiles on the faces of children lined up for the amusement attractions at the carnival. While pre-teens and adolescents head for the bumper cars and thrill rides, tiny tots will find child-friendly fun on the Kiddie Land rides.

A trail of Texas tykes promenade down the street in pirate and cowboy costumes during the Junior Parade, which is enjoyed by both the young and the young at heart.

For more information:

• visit www.bucdays.com