The Gasparilla Pirate Invasion returns to downtown Tampa on Saturday, January 31, bringing one of the city’s most anticipated traditions back to the waterfront at the Tampa Convention Center.
Whether you’re 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.
The invasion begins around 11:30 a.m., with the pirate ship arriving near the Tampa Convention Center around 1:00 p.m.
Gasparilla Brunch at the Tampa Convention Center
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.
Important details:
• Brunch runs from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
• Guests should enter through the Front Drive off Franklin Street and proceed to the Channel Entrance for check-in
• Coolers and outside alcohol are not permitted anywhere on Tampa Convention Center property
Watching the Invasion at The Sail
If you don’t have brunch tickets, The Sail Plaza is one of the best places to experience Gasparilla.
Located directly outside the Tampa Convention Center along the Riverwalk, The Sail offers:
• No cover charge
• Waterfront views of the pirate invasion
• Opening early at 9:00 a.m.
• Additional pop-up bars outside the Convention Center
• Delicious Tampa food from Big Ray’s Fish Camp and food trucks
• 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.
Tables are first-come, first-served for paying customers.
A designated ADA viewing area is located near the Tampa Convention Center Front Drive along the Riverwalk.
Getting to Gasparilla
Guests should expect heavy traffic and increased pedestrian activity throughout downtown Tampa during Gasparilla.
Drivers should be aware of the following road closures.
Parking Options
- Pam Iorio Garage - S. Florida Ave & Channelside Dr.
- Tampa Convention Center Garage - Tampa St. & Brorein St.
- Fort Brooke Garage - Whiting St. between Franklin St. & Florida Ave.
- Whiting St. Garage - (N. Morgan St.
Event parking costs $30 for the day at each garage. Please note, garages will likely fill early.
Streetcar Option
Guests may park in Ybor City and take the free TECO Line Streetcar to Dick Greco Plaza, located directly across from The Sail.
Rideshare
Drop-Off/Pick-Up Spots are located in front of Harpoon Harry's Crab House at 225 S. Franklin Street, including for ADA visitors and rideshare/Uber/Lyft/taxi passengers.