If you’re new to the Gasparilla scene that has been going on since 1904, then you’re in for an extraordinary ride. This annual festivity was inspired by the swashbuckling, pillaging, legendary pirate, Jose Gaspar!
In 1904, a group of people in Tampa organized a mock pirate invasion. This was to celebrate the city’s culture and history. Today, this is the biggest and most beloved event in the city. Specifically, it is the third largest parade in the United States! Event-goers will dress up as pirates and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Typically, the festival shows a pirate invasion of downtown Tampa and a waterfront show. There is always live music, food vendors, and various family-friendly activities throughout the city. This year, the Ashley Children’s Gasparilla will be presented by Chick-Fil-A. This is held on the second-to-last Saturday of January, welcoming the small pirates in Tampa Bay!
Located along the bay shore, kids will learn bicycle safety with traffic. The tiny pirates will be provided bicycles to cycle through a fun course that teaches them skills that could save their lives. Volunteers will assist the little pirates with a new and free bicycle helmet. The children’s parade will be alcohol-free and memorable for the whole family! There are tickets available online to join in the kids’ fun!
As the exciting day goes on, the Seminole Hard Rock Gasparilla is where more than 300,000 aspiring pirates gather to watch the events. Announced Hard Rock, stand-up comedian Bert Kreischer and World War II US Army Soldier Roy J. Calwood will be featured in the Saturday festivities. More than 100 floats head down Bayshore Boulevard into downtown.
The 2025 lineup for the Gasparilla air invasion has not been announced yet. However, at noon, the airshow will begin along Tampa’s waterfront. A parachute demonstration team will be landing on Bayshore in the afternoon. There will be a full aerobatic routine, followed later that night by a fireworks show and parachute finale!
There is lots to look forward to for Gasparilla 2025! Make sure to plan ahead what events you will be watching or joining ahead of time! See you, mateys, there!
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