The Gasparilla Pirate Invasion returns to downtown Tampa on Saturday, January 31, bringing one of the city\u2019s most anticipated traditions back to the waterfront at the Tampa Convention Center.<\/p>\n
Whether you\u2019re attending the official Gasparilla Brunch or planning to watch the invasion from the Tampa Riverwalk, guests can expect a full day of pirate fun, live music, and waterfront views. This is a rain-or-shine event.<\/p>\n
The invasion begins around 11:30 a.m., with the pirate ship arriving near the Tampa Convention Center around 1:00 p.m.<\/p>\n
Gasparilla Brunch at the Tampa Convention Center<\/p>\n
Guests attending the Gasparilla Invasion Brunch, hosted by EventFest, will enjoy front-row views of the pirate invasion along with food and beverages in a lively waterfront setting.<\/p>\n
Important details:<\/p>\n
\u2022 Brunch runs from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
\u2022 Guests should enter through the Front Drive off Franklin Street and proceed to the Channel Entrance for check-in
\u2022 Coolers and outside alcohol are not permitted anywhere on Tampa Convention Center property<\/p>\n
Watching the Invasion at The Sail<\/p>\n
If you don\u2019t have brunch tickets, The Sail Plaza is one of the best places to experience Gasparilla.<\/p>\n
Located directly outside the Tampa Convention Center along the Riverwalk, The Sail offers:<\/p>\n
\u2022 No cover charge
\u2022 Waterfront views of the pirate invasion
\u2022 Opening early at 9:00 a.m.
\u2022 Additional pop-up bars outside the Convention Center
\u2022 Delicious Tampa food from Big Ray\u2019s Fish Camp and food trucks
\u2022 Live music:
o Caribbean Experience from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
o Romaine Lawrence on steel drums from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.<\/p>\n
Tables are first-come, first-served for paying customers.<\/p>\n
A designated ADA viewing area is located near the Tampa Convention Center Front Drive along the Riverwalk.<\/p>\n
Getting to Gasparilla<\/p>\n
Guests should expect heavy traffic and increased pedestrian activity throughout downtown Tampa during Gasparilla.<\/p>\n