TAMPA, Fla. (Amazing America TV) — Gasparilla 2026 is fast approaching! Is your crew ready?

For the uninitiated, Tampa’s iconic, pirate-centric celebration is the third-oldest parade in the United States and a highly anticipated event each winter.

Gasparilla began in 1904 when business leaders hosted a mock pirate invasion inspired by the legend of the (probably fictional) 18th-century privateer José Gaspar, who was said to have roamed and marauded Florida’s Gulf Coast. The event gave Tampa a memorable narrative and identity at a time when the growing port town sought national attention.

What started as a small parade is now Tampa’s largest festival, usually expected to draw hundreds of thousands of attendees. A spirited occasion marked by pirate ships, costumes, cannon-fire, and festivities, Gasparilla is more than just a party: It’s over a century of Tampa tradition.

Over time, Gasparilla has expanded into a season-long celebration from January through March.

The main highlight is the Gasparilla Pirate Fest, where members of the all-male Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla stage a mock pirate invasion (just like they did back in 1904) by sailing into Tampa Bay, “capturing” the city, and leading a huge parade through the downtown area. This will take place on January 31 from 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Don’t miss it!

There are also kid-friendly events, including a parade! This year the kiddos’ celebrations will be held on January 24 from 12 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., with the parade taking place around 4 p.m. until 6:15 p.m.

For tickets and information about event packages, visit www.gasparillatreasures.com.

Now on its 107th year, Gasparilla has become a defining tradition of Tampa’s winter social season and cements its reputation as a vibrant, fun-loving Gulf Coast city.

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