Seminole Hard Rock

GASPARILLA PIRATE FEST

Seminole Hard Rock Gasparilla Pirate Fest logo

SATURDAY, JANUARY 31, 2026

Each January, Tampa Bay transforms into a pirate’s playground as the legendary Gasparilla Pirate Fest takes over the city. Inspired by the lore of José Gaspar, this high-energy celebration invites locals and visitors alike to don their best pirate gear and revel in the pageantry.

The festivities center around a spectacular 4.5-mile parade, featuring the dramatic arrival of the Ye Mystic Krewe and their captain as they "invade" the city. With over 100 elaborately decorated floats, marching bands, and costumed crews winding along scenic Bayshore Boulevard into the heart of downtown, it’s no wonder Gasparilla ranks as the third-largest parade in the country.

From beads to brass bands, this one-of-a-kind celebration captures the daring spirit and cultural flair that makes Tampa Bay truly unforgettable.

SCHEDULE

Convention Center Invasion: 11:30am - 1:00pm

Parade of Pirates: 2:00pm - 5:30pm

ABOUT THE PARADE

Named for pirate Jose Gaspar, who terrorized the coastal waters of West Florida during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Tampa's annual Gasparilla celebration begins with the Gasparilla Invasion. Over 750 swashbucklers invade Tampa Bay aboard the majestic pirate ship "Jose Gasparilla," kicking off a full schedule of pirate-themed events.

Colorized photo from 1947 via Burgert Brothers

Invasion Route

The Jose Gasparilla sets sail at the south end of Hillsborough Bay at 11:30am, sails north to Seddon Channel (between Davis Islands and Harbour Island), continues north and docks at the Tampa Convention Center at 1:00pm.

Parade Route

The parade begins at Bay to Bay and Bayshore Blvd. and continues along downtown to Brorein Street, then turns on Ashley Drive. The parade ends at Cass Street & Ashley Drive.

Viewing

The best seats for the invasion are at the Gasparilla Invasion Brunch at the Convention Center. However, there are many other places in downtown Tampa – waterfront hotels, places along Davis Islands and Harbour Island – to view this spectacular event! Purchase tickets at Gasparilla Treasures.

Gasparilla pirate onboard the Jose Gaspar

Parking

Available at the Tampa Convention Center and throughout downtown, but plan to arrive early as parking fills up quickly for the event. All side streets along Bayshore are closed to traffic.

January 26, 8:00 – 11:00 AM

AFTER GASPARILLA CLEANUP

Join Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful and the City of Tampa for the Annual After Gasparilla Cleanup! After the festivities, it’s time to hit the streets and clean up the litter left behind. The event is free, but make sure to register on EventBrite. You’ll get cleanup supplies, snacks, T-shirts, and a SPIN scooter voucher if you're helping at Jackson’s Bistro. Closed-toe shoes are required, and while it’s not mandatory, it’s a good idea to bring sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle. With several locations across Tampa, it’s a fun way to give back and help keep our community looking great!