Quick Facts:

Date: Saturday, January 31, 2026
Main events:
- Gasparilla Invasion and Flotilla (11:30 AM to 1:00 PM)
- Gasparilla Parade of Pirates (2:00 PM to 6:00 PM)
Location: Bayshore Boulevard and Downtown Tampa
Cost: Free admission, reserved seating available
Expected attendance: Over 300,000

Tampa’s legendary Gasparilla Pirate Fest returns for its 107th celebration, bringing pirates, parades, and festivities to Tampa’s historic Bayshore Boulevard. Gasparilla 2026 is an all-day event featuring the famous pirate invasion, live entertainment, and the iconic Parade of Pirates.

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Event schedule and highlights

Morning events (9:00 AM to 11:30 AM)

Live entertainment and Pirate Fest activities begin downtown
Pirate Fest stage performances run from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Pre-invasion activities take place along Bayshore Boulevard
Gasparilla Invasion Brunch runs from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Gasparilla invasion (11:30 AM to 1:00 PM)

The Jose Gasparilla pirate ship leads hundreds of boats as the Gasparilla Flotilla enters Hillsborough Bay and travels through the Seddon Channel toward downtown Tampa.

Invasion route

Begins at the south end of Hillsborough Bay
Continues through the Seddon Channel between Davis Islands and Harbour Island
Ends at the Tampa Convention Center at 1:00 PM

Popular viewing areas

Tampa Convention Center
Tampa Riverwalk
Davis Islands seawall
Harbour Island waterfront

Parade of Pirates (2:00 PM to 6:00 PM)

The Gasparilla Parade of Pirates features more than 140 parade units, including elaborate floats, marching bands, and dozens of Gasparilla krewes. The parade begins at Bay to Bay and Bayshore Boulevard and travels 4.5 miles to its end point at Ashley Drive and Cass Street.

Essential Gasparilla planning information

Transportation and parking

Parking for Gasparilla can be challenging due to road closures and heavy crowds. Rideshare services are strongly encouraged, especially if you plan to enjoy drinks during the event. If driving, be sure to park only in approved garages and lots to avoid towing.

Official event parking

Tampa Convention Center Garage
Pam Iorio Garage
Fort Brooke Garage
Whiting Street Garage
Centro Ybor Garage
Palm Avenue Garage

Public transportation

Free TECO Line Streetcar service typically runs from 8:30 AM to 2:30 AM
Free HART bus shuttle service typically runs from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM
Service connects Ybor City, downtown Tampa, and the Channel District

Safety and security

Gasparilla Pirate Fest includes enhanced safety and security measures throughout the event footprint to help ensure a safe experience for all attendees.

Multiple law enforcement agencies on site
Surveillance cameras and aerial monitoring
Clear bag policy enforced
Text alerts available by texting Gasparilla to 888777

What to bring

Prohibited items

Glass containers
Coolers
Weapons
Drones
Electric scooters
Large backpacks or oversized bags

Visitor information and tips

Where to stay for Gasparilla

Staying near downtown Tampa is one of the easiest ways to avoid traffic and long travel times on Gasparilla day. Hotels close to the parade route and invasion viewing areas allow you to walk or take short rides to the festivities.

Recommended hotels for Gasparilla 2026

Tampa Marriott Water Street
- Located near prime Gasparilla invasion viewing areas
- Within walking distance of the parade route
- Special event packages are often available
Westin Tampa Waterside
- Direct access to the Gasparilla parade route
- Popular location for invasion viewing and brunch events
- Reserved viewing options may be available
Embassy Suites Downtown Convention Center
- Near the parade end point
- Convenient for evening celebrations
- Suite-style accommodations ideal for groups

Insider tips for Gasparilla success

Locals know that timing and preparation make all the difference on Gasparilla day. Arriving early and planning your viewing spot ahead of time can greatly improve your experience.

Timing and arrival

Arrive before 9:00 AM for easier parking and transportation
Major road closures typically begin Friday night
Expect heavy traffic by mid-morning
Plan extra walking time between locations

Best viewing strategies

Early parade route locations often receive the first bead throws
Waterside viewing areas typically get more action
Reserved bleacher seating provides elevated views and assigned space
ADA viewing areas are available near Ashley Drive and Whiting Street

Food and drink information

Gasparilla is a long day, and staying fueled and hydrated is key. Food vendors, food trucks, and nearby restaurants are available throughout the event area.

Designated wet zones

Wet zones are located along the parade route
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is a primary wet zone area
Alcohol consumption is only permitted within clearly marked boundaries
Glass containers are not permitted

Food options

Food vendors are located along the parade route
Food trucks operate near Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Many downtown Tampa restaurants remain open during the event
Bringing snacks is recommended for a full day downtown

Frequently asked questions

Event access

Do I need tickets for Gasparilla?
The Gasparilla invasion and Parade of Pirates are free to attend. Reserved seating and special events require tickets.

Where can I purchase reserved seating?
Official bleacher and premium seating options are typically available through Gasparilla organizers.

Accessibility

Is accessible parking available?
Designated accessible parking is available in select downtown garages.

Where are accessible viewing areas located?
Primary accessible viewing areas are located near Ashley Drive and Whiting Street.

Weather and contingency plans

Is Gasparilla held rain or shine?
Yes. Gasparilla events typically proceed in most weather conditions.

What happens in severe weather?
Severe weather updates and safety instructions are communicated on event day through official channels and text alerts.

Gasparilla 2026: Guide to Tampa’s Pirate Festival & Parade