A pirate flag blows in the wind over water.
A flag flies off the back of a boat during Ephemerisle near Mandeville Tip County Park in Stockton, California on Friday, July 24, 2026. (Photo by Annie Barker/Stocktonia/CatchLight Local/Report for America)

From July 20 through the 26 a group of sailors and adventure-seeking individuals gathered together near Mandeville Tip. A collection of Delta-fairing vessels crafted flotillas and “islands” of floating platforms to once again create “Ephemerisle”. 

In 2009, the event stemmed from the Seasteading Institute looking to “promote their vision of autonomous societies in the ocean,” according to the Ephemerisle website. The event has continued to evolve into a informal gathering where people come to sing, dance, swim and build community in the heart of the Delta.

People celebrate in a dinghy on the water.
Captain and Admiral Dog Foot celebrate winning a small craft race during Ephemerisle near Mandeville Tip County Park in Stockton, California on Friday, July 24, 2026. (Photo by Annie Barker/Stocktonia/CatchLight Local/Report for America)

Finding a way there and a place to sleep are crucial for those looking to attend. Logistical prep and preplanning can be found on the group Facebook. Curious individuals of all ages are encouraged to join.