01/25/2025 - 9:00am
Ahoy, matey! Get ready for one of Florida’s biggest and most exciting celebrations — the Gasparilla Pirate Festival in Tampa! This annual event, taking place on January 25, 2025, brings together locals and visitors alike for a day of pirate-themed revelry and adventure. The festival is centered around the legendary pirate José Gaspar and features an array of exciting events, including the Gasparilla Invasion, where pirates arrive in Tampa Bay aboard the Jose Gasparilla ship to "invade" the city. Following the invasion, the streets of downtown Tampa come alive with the Gasparilla Parade of Pirates, featuring vibrant floats, marching bands, and of course, plenty of pirates marching through the heart of the city.
Throughout the day, the Gasparilla Pirate Fest Street Festival will take over downtown Tampa, offering food trucks, live music, street performers, and pirate-themed vendors, creating a lively, festive atmosphere for all ages. Families can also enjoy the Gasparilla Children’s Parade, a family-friendly event with kid-friendly floats and activities that’s perfect for little pirates.
While admission to the parade, invasion, and street festival is free, VIP packages are available for those seeking premium access and exclusive viewing areas. To avoid the hassle of parking, we recommend using public transportation or rideshare services, as downtown Tampa gets very busy during the festival.
Whether you're a Tampa local or visiting for the first time, the Gasparilla Pirate Festival is a must-attend event. Dress up in your finest pirate attire, catch some beads, and join in the fun as we celebrate Tampa’s rich pirate history and the legendary José Gaspar.