Ahoy, Tampa Bay! The Jolly Roger is about to unfurl as Gasparilla 2024 approaches, promising a weekend of pirate revelry and plunder on January 27. As thousands prepare to swarm Bayshore Boulevard and downtown Tampa, it’s time to unleash your inner buccaneer and join the legendary celebration of the enigmatic pirate José Gaspar.
Ahoy, mateys! 🏴☠️☠️ Planning to invade Tampa Bay? Take a gander at our schedule of events and map to discover the most coveted experiences at this Saturday’s @SHRTampa Gasparilla Pirate Fest! 🗺️ pic.twitter.com/Os34aX3us9
— Gasparilla Tampa (@GasparillaTampa) January 22, 2024
Setting Sail: Gasparilla Schedule and Logistics
Start Times
Gasparilla invasion kicks off on Jan. 27 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., followed by the parade rolling through Tampa from 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Both events are free, so secure your spot early and get ready for a sea of attendees.
Parking Tips
Traffic will be heavy around downtown Tampa, so plan ahead for parking.
Gasparilla Pirate Fest offers $20 event parking at various locations, including Tampa Convention Center Garage, Fort Brooke Garage, and Pam Iorio Parking Garage.
Navigating Road Closures
Numerous road closures are planned from Jan. 26 to Jan. 27, affecting key routes like Bayshore Boulevard, West Platt Street, and more. Be sure to check the closures and plan your routes accordingly.
Transportation Alternatives and Accessibility
Alternative Transportation
Utilize HART buses and the TECO Line Streetcar for convenient transport during the main Gasparilla parade.
Note that some HART routes will be on detour during Gasparilla, so plan your journey accordingly.
Accessibility Options
Accessible parking for the main parade is available at Fort Brooke Garage on Whiting Street. Make use of alternative transportation methods like HART and the TECO Line Streetcar.
Wet Zones: A Pirate’s Haven
Wet Zones along the parade route and Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park will allow pirates to revel freely. However, consuming alcohol outside these zones is strictly prohibited. The Gasparilla Wet Zone, extending from W. Gandy Blvd. to downtown Tampa, will host nine alcohol vendors.
Boating During Gasparilla: Navigating the Seas
Coast Guard Guidelines
A safety zone will be in place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday to ensure boater safety during the Gasparilla Parade.
Boaters must stay 50 feet away from floats, adhere to no-wake zones, and monitor VHF Ch. 16 for emergencies.
Boater Reminders
Avoid throwing items into coastal waterways, including beads, as it violates state law.
Ensure the boat captain holds a Coast Guard-issued Captain’s license before paying for a ride.
Follow safety guidelines, including wearing life jackets, checking equipment, and refraining from drinking while boating.
As Gasparilla 2024 approaches, Tampa Bay prepares for a pirate invasion like no other. From parade schedules to road closures and boating guidelines, this guide ensures you’re well-prepared to join the festivities. So, hoist the Jolly Roger and set sail for Gasparilla’s swashbuckling shindig!
