Gasparilla Pirate Festival 2025

The pirate boats are ready to set sail! X marks the spot in Tampa this year at the Gasparilla Pirate Festival!

The Gasparilla Pirate Festival, held annually in Tampa, Florida, dates back to 1904. The festival is inspired by the legendary pirate José Gaspar, also known as Gasparilla. It mythologizes his exploits as a pirate who allegedly roamed the waters of Florida's Gulf Coast in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

In 1904, the first Gasparilla parade, a surprise "invasion" by city leaders in pirate costumes, debuted during Tampa’s May Day celebration. Afterward, in 1911, the pirate ship motif became integral to the festival. The invasion was enhanced by introducing a flotilla led by the pirate ship José Gasparilla, which became a central part of the event. Finally, in 1954, the city commissioned a replica pirate ship, the Jose Gasparilla II, to solidify the festival's nautical theme.

The 2025 Gasparilla Pirate Fest, organized by Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla, is scheduled for January 25 in downtown Tampa. Don't miss it!

What to Expect When Attending Gasparilla Pirate Festival 2025

The event will kick off with the Gasparilla Invasion Brunch at 9:30 AM. It's scheduled in the morning to align with the pirate invasion, so you can enjoy brunch while watching the José Gasparilla II pirate ship and flotilla arrive. Guests will be treated to a buffet-style brunch, beverages, and unparalleled views of the invasion flotilla as it sails up the Hillsborough River!

The festival's centerpiece is the reenactment of the José Gasparilla pirate invasion, or the Gasparilla Invasion, set from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM. A fully rigged pirate ship, Jose Gasparilla II, will sail from the south end of Hillsborough Bay and continue north to Seddon Channel (between Davis Island and Harbour Island). It will again continue north and dock at the Tampa Convention Center.

Expect a massive Gasparilla Parade of Pirates featuring elaborate pirate-themed floats, performers, and bead-throwing pirates. The victory parade's route runs along Bayshore Boulevard; be prepared to catch beads and trinkets tossed from vessels—it's a key tradition!

The Gasparilla festivities also provide live music, food, and themed events along the Tampa Riverwalk. Art shows, kids' activities, and costume contests will offer fun for all ages.

The forecast predicts pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging from lows in the mid-50s F (12-13 C) to highs in the low to mid-70s F (22-24 C). Dress comfortably and bring a jacket for a cooler evening.

Tickets

Hurry up and select your ticket option; you can purchase your tickets here.

Security Protocols

• Security personnel will check all bags upon entry, monitor the crowd, and keep everyone safe.
• Prohibited items include large bags, alcohol, and dangerous objects.
• Medical tents and first aid stations will be strategically placed throughout the event.
• Roads will be closed around Bayshore Blvd.

How to Get To or From the Event

Here's how to reach downtown Tampa:

• HART bus services: The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) system offers routes connecting to downtown Tampa. Check the HART website for schedules and the best route.
• TECO Line Streetcar: The TECO Line Streetcar provides a convenient way to travel between Ybor City, Channelside, and downtown Tampa. This free service is an excellent option for avoiding traffic near the event.
• Car: If you decide to drive, be aware of street closures. Parking is available in public lots, garages, and street parking in downtown Tampa. However, due to the event's popularity, these spaces fill up quickly, so arriving early is important.

Gasparilla Pirate Festival 2025 Bag Policy

Remember, all bags brought to the event are subject to inspection by security personnel. It's recommended to carry clear bags or smaller items. Large backpacks and oversized items are restricted in certain areas, especially near the main parade route and during the Pirate Invasion Brunch.

The event doesn't provide an area to store luggage, but you don't have to worry since you can rely on Bounce!

Bounce is the #1 global luggage storage network, powered by over 13,000 businesses worldwide.

Gasparilla Pirate Festival 2025 Bag Storage

Store Your Bags With Bounce and Have a Wonderful Stay at Tampa

The Bounce platform provides secure spots around the world where you can leave your belongings and enjoy your stay in the city. You can find us online or use the mobile app to book. Storing your bags with our help is easy!

We partner with local businesses, with 15,000 locations for storing your luggage in more than 4000 cities, including in Tampa.

For only $4.10 per day, no cancellation fee, and 24/7 support, you can relax and experience something unique at the Gasparilla Pirate Festival!

How to Stow Your Bag at Gasparilla Pirate Festival 2025 With Bounce

• Find a desirable location, book, and pay online.
• Go to the chosen location, show your confirmation, and leave your luggage.
• Head to the Festival and enjoy! After that, simply come where you left your bags and pick them up.

How to Make the Most Out of Gasparilla Pirate Festival 2025

• Dress the part: Embrace the pirate theme by wearing costumes, hats, or accessories. Dressing up makes everything more fun, and the experience becomes more immersive!
• Enjoy the Parade: Arrive along Bayshore Boulevard early to claim a good spot and bring folding chairs or blankets for comfort. Be ready to catch beads and other trinkets thrown from parade floats.

Store your bags while staying in Tampa and have an unforgettable experience at the Gasparilla Pirate Festival. We promise fun!