With less than 100 days until Gasparilla Pirate Fest, Tampa is gearing up for one of America’s largest and most electrifying parades. The celebration kicks off on Saturday, January 25, 2025, with events spanning the city from the waterfront to downtown, transforming Tampa into a pirate’s playground.
The family-friendly Children’s Gasparilla will take place on January 18, featuring a bike rodeo, children’s parade, air invasion, and a fireworks extravaganza. You can see all event details here.
ADVERTISEMENT
Gasparilla Invasion
The excitement begins with the Gasparilla Invasion, hosted by Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla. Here’s the schedule:
- Gasparilla Invasion Brunch
- Time: 9:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
- Location: Tampa Convention Center, 333 S. Franklin Street, Tampa
- Details: Enjoy a special brunch with exclusive waterfront views of the approaching pirate fleet. Brunch guests will have prime viewing for the invasion, with a variety of food and beverage options. Tickets are required for all guests over two and are available at Gasparilla Treasures™.
- The Pirate Invasion
- Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
- Route: The mighty pirate ship Jose Gasparilla II will set sail from the south end of Hillsborough Bay, traveling through Seddon Channel before docking at the Tampa Convention Center.
- Viewing Locations: Spectators can enjoy the invasion from various waterfront vantage points, including downtown hotels, Davis Island, and Harbour Island.
Gasparilla Parade of Pirates
The main event, Gasparilla Parade of Pirates, will showcase the Krewe’s vibrant floats and lively bands as they march through Tampa’s streets from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Parade Route: Starting at Bay to Bay Boulevard, the parade will wind its way along Bayshore Boulevard, then turn east on Brorein Street, ending at Ashley Drive and Cass Street.
- Viewing Options: Attendees can line the streets to enjoy this free event. For a premium experience, reserved seating is available along the parade route, with options for bleacher and First Mate seating. Tickets are required for all attendees over two, and interactive maps can be found at GasparillaTreasures.com.
Pirate Fest Live Music and Entertainment
Gasparilla Pirate Fest, presented by Bud Light and 101 N. Meridian Apartment Homes, promises even more excitement with live music and entertainment before and after the parade at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and MacDill Park. Music will run from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., with a full lineup of local artists to be announced soon.
Gasparilla Pirate Fest promises an unforgettable day of revelry, live entertainment, and pirate-inspired excitement for locals and visitors alike. Prepare to join the swashbuckling fun as Tampa’s streets and waterfronts turn into a full-blown pirate celebration. Full details and tickets are available online.
ADVERTISEMENT
