From the Gasparilla website: Celebrating their capture of the City of Tampa, the Captain and his Krewe share their wealth – glittering beads, treasures and doubloons – with enthusiastic crowds all along the 3.8-mile parade route.
“Make way, mateys!” shout Tampa’s original buccaneers as they wind their way down historic Bayshore Boulevard and into downtown Tampa – amidst colorful costumes and festive music. The Gasparilla Parade of the Pirates will boast over 130 units – including more than 90 elaborate floats, 14 marching bands, over 50 distinct Krewes and, of course, those infamous pirates!
The parade begins at Bay to Bay Boulevard and Bayshore Boulevard. The, the parade continues along Bayshore Boulevard to Brorein Street, turns east on Brorein Street, then north on Ashley Drive. The parade ends at Cass Street & Ashley Drive in downtown Tampa.
This event is a staple here in Tampa! The Parade of Pirates is a fun event and now has gotten big enough to where there is a new event for children only! The pirate costumes, the beer, the beads, the beer, the long lines for the port-o-potties, all are part of the Gasparilla experience. It is best to get there early as parking is tight. Food is sold as is beer. It's a long day, comparable to Mardi Gras! Be prepared for lots of crowds and a long day! It's fun, but I am not sure I would recommend bringing the kids to this event. The Children's Parade is more the family friendly event with your little pirates!
Every year, Tampa is invaded by pirates firing real cannons off their floats....and the citizens of Tampa go wild. Dressing up as a pirate is highly encouraged...you'll feel like a part of the party so go wild! The Parade of Pirates features so many costumed pirates of all ages that you'll feel like you're in a Johnny Depp pirate movie. Get there early to secure a spot along Bayshore Boulevard and shout out loud for beads! The view of downtown Tampa over the water is beautiful! Beer is sold at this event, some folks do get a bit wild and it is VERY loud so you might want to be cautious younger kiddos. ARRGH!