A pirate shipwreck cove in an American Fork front yard is open to the public through Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026. The display, maintained by Gary and Julie Gibb, features various shipwreck wreckage and animatronic pirates.
The display is located on a cul-de-sac at 1437 N. 20 East in American Fork. Visitors are encouraged to drive by slowly or park and walk up, though they should avoid parking directly in front of the house to ensure a clear view for others. Because the yard is a cul-de-sac, visitors should watch for small children. The display is not interactive and guests should stay on the sidewalk and avoid touching the handmade items. Lights are turned off by 10 p.m.
The yard's features have expanded significantly since 2020, when Gary Gibb built a porch ship with a candy cannon to allow for touchless trick-or-treating during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the last six years, the display has grown into a shipwreck cove including a mast, a sail, a giant Kraken, and animated pirates. This year's additions include new lighting effects, a new Kraken, and pirates walking the plank. Most materials used for the display are repurposed or scavenged, including spray paint, screws, and zip-ties, with the exception of individual skeletons purchased from a store.
The display is intended to be cool rather than scary, making it suitable for small children, older children, and adults. On Halloween night, Saturday, Oct. 31, trick-or-treaters are welcome to visit while the captain hands out candy. Gary Gibb noted that the project is intended for the kids and that neighbors often visit throughout October to see the progress of the build.
The pirate yard remains open rain or shine through Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026.
