Talk Like A Pirate Day

In every geek's brain, about 2cm to the left of the part dedicated to being on the alert for zombies is a small zone that is attuned to September 19th. Since its inception in 1996, Talk Like A Pirate Day has brought joy to millions of buccaneers and wenches alike.

Never one to be unprepared, I believe in getting a 5 day headstart on my Talk Like A Pirate Day plans! Tragically TLAPD is not an office day this year, but it does mean that we're all much freer to attend piratical events!

I've celebrated TLAPD with gusto since I discovered it in secondary school. Sometimes there have been costumes. Sometimes just the opportunity to utterly baffle my coworkers and devote countless time to sending emails with many, many more apostrophes than necessary.

Of course, no geek holiday would be complete without a splash of the alternative and the creative. Howard Hardiman (the author of the adorable and inimitable Badger) let me know about Sign Like A Pirate Day back in May. It's a fantastic event that not only raises awareness, but also teaches children some sign language and sounds like a hell of a lot of fun!

Londoners have gotten the right idea; dress as a pirate and come party at a nightclub. On a boat. Oh yes.

The internet is awash with advice on how to conduct oneself appropriately on this most auspicious of days.

How to talk like a pirate in English, German and Dutch!

Wooing wenches; it's what we're all really thinking about.

For later in the evening, when you've had a bit of grog, a handy mix and match guide to pirate insults!

It is a bit late for costume shopping, but if you're looking for inspiration, I would start with Dress Like A Pirate!

Remember to enjoy your grog and your wenches responsibly (and when a lass says no, she means it!) and don't forget to double up on your adjectives and drop your 'g's!