Gasparilla Pirate Festival Set to Conquer Tampa Bay Once Again in 2024
The Gasparilla Pirate Festival is set to return to Tampa Bay in 2024.
By Tampa Bay Living Magazine staff
Prepare yourself; Gasparilla season is coming to Tampa Bay.
Ahoy, matey! The eagerly awaited pirate “invasion” of Tampa Bay aboard the majestic José Gasparilla is just around the corner. Brace yourselves, for Gasparilla season has arrived in Tampa Bay, bringing forth a whirlwind of thrilling events catering to runners, children, fireworks enthusiasts and “pirates.”
Saturday, January 20: The Children’s Gasparilla Parade
Starting at Bay to Bay and making its way along the scenic Bayshore Boulevard all the way to Edison Avenue, this delightful parade offers a chance to enjoy Gasparilla in a more relaxed atmosphere. Whether or not you have children in tow, it's a perfect opportunity to avoid the hustle and bustle of large crowds and the rowdiness that sometimes comes with excessive revelry. The parade starts at 4 p.m., showcasing captivating pirate-themed floats and spirited marching bands. Be prepared for approximately two hours of fun-filled entertainment!
Prior to the parade, children can get a free bicycle helmet and participate in a mini-traffic course. This course begins at noon. In addition, at 2 p.m., there will be a "Preschooler Stroll," in which children dressed in Gasparilla pirate-themed costumes can participate.
Keep an eye out for an exhilarating “air invasion,” as parachutists will descend on the festivities before and after the parade, adding an added element of excitement to the celebration. Finally, as the day draws to a close, attendees can enjoy the stunning view of a spectacular fireworks display due to light up the sky at 7 p.m.
Saturday, January 27: José Gasparilla “Invasion”
With 300,000 people expected to “invade” Tampa Bay, Gasparilla is the third-largest parade in the U.S. For the adults, arrive well in advance to secure a prime location near the convention center, as the “invasion” starts promptly at 11:30 a.m. After the pirate “invasion,” attendees can witness the captivating grand spectacle of the Gasparilla “Parade of Pirates” along Bayshore Boulevard, starting around 2 p.m. and ending at approximately 5:30 p.m. This year, expect an impressive lineup of 140 krewes, marching bands and floats along the 4.5-mile-long parade route.
The party continues until 8 p.m. at Curtis Hixon Park and MacDill Park. There will be live music across several stages, with the Seven Nations Celtic Rock Band headlining this year's event.
Photo credits: Visit Tampa Bay-Keir Magoulas
February 10, 2024: Sant' Yago Knight Parade
Witness the spectacular Sant' Yago Knight Parade as it illuminates the bustling streets of Ybor City. To ensure smooth travel, remember that the streets in Ybor will close at 1 p.m., so plan your day appropriately. The parade starts about 7 a.m. and promises hours of entertainment and excitement. The Centro Ybor Garage, located just a few blocks away, provides eventgoers with convenience and accessibility.
February 17, 24 and 25: Gasparilla Distance Classic
Since its inception in 1978, the Gasparilla Distance Classic has raised millions of dollars for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay. On February 24 and 25, runs ranging from 5K to half marathons will be part of the Jr. Gasparilla Distance Classic, which Jefferson High School is hosting on February 17.
Know Before You “Invade”
Tents, stakes, rope, fencing and grills will not be permitted.
Outside food is also not allowed, as vendors throughout Tampa will offer a variety of food during the events.
Bicycles are not permitted on Bayshore Boulevard.
Coolers are also not permitted due to a lack of staff to inspect them, but small soft-sided coolers and lunch bags are acceptable. Coolers and lunch bags are only allowed for childcare or medical needs.
Outside beverages must be left behind, but vendors will sell them during the “invasion.”
Happy Gasparilla!