Gasparilla

So what on earth is Gasparilla? As someone that has lived in Tampa for over a decade, allow me to fill you in real quick as the Tampa Bay area prepares for this yearly tradition.

The history of Gasparilla is based upon the historic figure, pirate Jose Gaspar, that (according to legend) sailed up and down the Florida west coast doing what pirates did back in the day. However, there is no record that he ever existed, so take that historical reference with a huge grain of salt.

The invasion celebration (which was done to honor Gaspar to start with) started 104 years ago, occurring on the last Saturday of January. The event follows a series of events with Ye Mystic Crewe arriving at town hall threatening to invade Tampa if the Mayor refuses to surrender the city to them. On that last Saturday of the month, the pirates invade Tampa and take over the town, allowing the the town to celebrate in the takeover. Think Mardi Gras just in Tampa with a pirate theme.

The invasion itself is led by the 65 foot long Jose Gasparilla pirate ship that is sailed down the Hillsborough River where the Mystic Crewe then takes over the town. It’s quite an event with hundreds of ships joining the pirate ship invading the Bay. And on land over 300,000 people take to the streets to celebrate, both Tampa natives and from far and wide.

There are other events that occur throughout the month including a 5K run, a children’s parade the week before, and other various events with multiple organizations that embrace the Tampa tradition, making it a fun tradition that touches many aspects of life in Tampa.

It is quite the event where thousands of people party, drink, and dress up as pirates while walking around downtown Tampa, having a great time. There are themed parties everywhere with different hosting groups and restaurants (including house parties) and of course, the parade along Bayshore after the pirates take over.

Gasparilla is a Tampa tradition that locals and others enjoy every year. People prepare for months and make plans in order to host the best party or find the best spot to watch either the parade or the invasion. I will have another post to help you prepare for it with certain things to think about before embracing this Tampa tradition.