Happy Gasparilla Week! The bleachers are officially up. The pirate ship is shooting off laser shows in the middle of Hillsborough Bay. The smell of cigars, rum and gun powder is almost in the air. It’s time to start scheming. But one of the largest parades in America can boast some overwhelming options. That’s why we’ve gathered five plans of attack to help you navigate the high seas come a packed parade day in Tampa. Have fun, be safe, and fire the cannons.
Prime waterfront views in time to watch the pirates sail into Downtown Tampa. The Invasion Brunch held at the Tampa Convention Center is the ideal, low-key way to kick off Gasparilla morning. This boozy brunch has limited spots available or you’ll be walking the plank.
2. Downtown Crawlers Gasparilla Bar Crawl, Brunch and VIP
Moving onto a heavier start, the Gasparilla Bar Crawl is set with great deals, a solid base and a premium parade viewing location. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., enjoy drinks from participating locations like Yeoman’s, Harpoon Harry’s and more—then head over to your complimentary entry to Kona Big Wave’s Treasure Cove.
3. Soho District
Soho famously has a myriad of options. Just a 20-minute walk to the parade route, you can get the most out of the morning before boxing out for beads in the afternoon. With a 9 a.m. kickoff and three hours of free breakfast, MacDintons’s Kegs and Eggs is a foolproof option for stop number one. Just across the street, you’ll find a mechanical shark and plenty of bar games at Bar Hwrd’s block party.
4. Pirate Fest
There’s two locations to check out for pre and post parade vibes in Downtown Tampa. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and MacDill Park will both have stages set for live music and DJs all day long. Along with vendors and plenty of food to sop up the day’s bounty.
Walking on Gasparilla day can rack up quite a few miles. Great if you’re trying to get your steps in. Not so great if you, well, hate walking. If you’re looking for a place to sit back and relax for the parade, plenty of bleacher seating is still available with elite front row views right on Bayshore.