The Gasparilla Tampa Bay fun continues! The iconic Krewe of the Knights of Sant’ Yago Illuminated Knight Parade, presented by MOR-TV and co-sponsored by the City of Tampa, will return to historic Ybor City on Saturday, February 14th, 2026, 7 p.m. Considered by many to be the ultimate nighttime Gasparilla event for adults, the Knight Parade is often called the Night Parade due to its evening timeframe.
So if you're ready for more pirating fun, keep reading for everything you need to know to have an awesome time at the Gasparilla Sant’ Yago Knight Parade 2026!
<div id="c3be0912bb716eee4ca644c1dfc4ecde4"></div>Essential Guide to The Krewe of the Knights of Sant’ Yago 2026 Knight Parade
2026 Knight Parade Info
The largest illuminated night parade in the South returns to Ybor City on Saturday, February 14, 2026!
7 pm The public is invited to attend The Knight Parade Saturday, February 14, from 7-9 pm along Seventh Avenue. We suggest arriving by 4:00 pm to make the most of your evening. Seventh Avenue will close at 2 pm and cross streets close at 6:30 pm.
More parade route and road closure info is below – keep reading!
Who's going to be at the 2026 Ybor City Knight Parade?
The 2026 Grand Marshal will be Carlos “Carlito” Fuente Jr., chairman and visionary of Arturo Fuente Cigars. Carlos is a Tampa native who grew up in Ybor City and a third-generation cigar maker.
2026 Knight Parade Road Closures
The parade route moves east down Seventh Avenue from Nuccio Parkway to 22nd Street in Ybor City, Tampa. Seventh Avenue will close at 2 p.m. Cross streets will close at 6:30 p.m.
Paradegoers are encouraged to arrive early for pre-parade events and grab a bite to eat at one of the many Ybor City restaurants. 4:00pm is a good arrival time giving you time to find parking, enjoy a nice dinner, and get in the Gasparilla spirit – Ybor City style!
Knight Parade Alcohol Policy
Important note: No coolers or personal alcohol are allowed.
The Knights of Sant’ Yago 2026 Knight Parade is a party for sure. But it is most importantly a chance to support the Ybor City local businesses. Most Ybor City bars and restaurants accept credit cards.
You may find a few beverage tents set up near the parade route – bring cash just in case.
Be safe, and responsible, and remember to hydrate!
Official 2026 Illuminated Knight Parade Bleacher Seats
If you want to impress your date, and make life a lot easier on yourself, purchase official bleacher seats. Tickets for 2026 are coming soon.
Bleacher Seat SECTION INFO:
- Sections A & B are in front of Gaspar’s Grotto
- Section C in front of Sunday’s Delicatessen
- Section D in front of Columbia Centennial Museum
The Krewe of the Knights of Sant’ Yago has organized and hosted the Knight Parade since 1974 to raise funds for higher education. Through the Knight Parade and other fundraising events, the Krewe of the Knights of Sant’ Yago Education Foundation has provided more than $4 million in scholarships for local students to attend Tampa Bay colleges and universities since 1994.
The History of the Knights of Sant’ Yago Knight Parade
KREWE HISTORY: Chartered in 1972, the Krewe of the Knights of Sant’ Yago is dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of Tampa’s rich Latin heritage and culture. Comprised of 250 of the Tampa Bay area’s professional men, the Krewe of the Knights of Sant’ Yago is represented each year by our El Rey (King) and his La Reina (Queen), and their Royal Court of Ladies-In-Waiting, Courtesanos, Pages, Attendants and Royal Sword Bearer.
Watch it from home: For those unable to attend, MOR-TV will be live-streaming the parade online at MOR-TV.com.