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Tampa Prepares for the Children’s Gasparilla Parade

Families enjoy the fun-filled atmosphere of the Children's Gasparilla Parade in Tampa.

News Summary

Tampa is all set for the annual Children’s Gasparilla Parade this Valentine’s weekend, promising a day packed with fun activities for families. Beginning at noon, attendees can enjoy various events leading up to the parade at 4 p.m. Safety measures are in place, including traffic management and law enforcement presence, ensuring a secure environment for all. With free admission and an array of festivities, including a dazzling fireworks finale, families are encouraged to come together and celebrate the spirit of the Gasparilla season.

Tampa Gears Up for a Family Extravaganza with Children’s Gasparilla Parade

This Valentine’s weekend, Tampa is set to kick off the much-anticipated Gasparilla season with the Children’s Gasparilla Parade. Scheduled for Saturday, the celebration promises a day filled with fun, laughter, and plenty of pirate excitement, all while creating lasting memories for families and kiddos alike!

Mark Your Calendars!

The festivities officially commence at 12 p.m. and will roll through until 7:30 p.m., giving you plenty of time to dive into the rich and vibrant offerings of the event. The highlight, of course, is the parade itself, kicking off at 4 p.m.. It will start at the intersection of Bay to Bay Avenue and Bayshore Boulevard, flowing north along the iconic Bayshore before concluding at Edison Avenue.

Fun-Packed Events for Everyone!

Make sure to arrive early, because there’s a ton going on before the grand parade begins! Here’s a sneak peek of the day’s itinerary:

Noon to 2 p.m. – Dust off those helmets for the Bicycle & Pedestrian Safety Rodeo, where kids can receive free helmets while learning all the ins and outs of traffic safety through an exciting course!
Noon to 4 p.m. – Get ready for the Gasparilla Air Invasion, an airshow that’s set to wow attendees with vintage military aircraft and epic parachute demonstrations.
2-3 p.m. – Little tots under 5 will love the Gasparilla Preschoolers’ Stroll, showcasing their adorable pirate costumes while rolling along in decorated wagons. (Remember, pre-registration is required!)
4-6:15 p.m. – The Children’s Gasparilla Parade will take center stage, with kids gleefully collecting beads and candy thrown from floats and marching bands. What a delightful way to immerse in the spirit of Gasparilla!
6:15-7 p.m. – Stick around for the Gasparilla Nighttime Air Invasion, featuring another thrilling parachute jump crowned with spectacular fireworks lighting up the night sky.
7-7:30 p.m. – Finally, don’t miss the grand finale, the “Piratechnic Finale”, a fireworks display that depicts an imaginary pirate battle, bringing the day’s pirate-themed excitement to a thrilling close.

What to Expect

With all these fun events happening, attendance is free! However, keep in mind that the area is likely to experience heavy traffic as folks flock to the festivities. Planning your travel routes in advance, arriving early, and using public transport options such as trolleys will certainly ease your journey.

Please note that it’s an alcohol-free event, ensuring a safe and enjoyable atmosphere for families. With safety in mind, hundreds of law enforcement officers will be present, ensuring everyone has a wonderful time. Among them are undercover officers, enhancing public safety without being a buzzkill.

Accessibility and Parking

For your comfort, a safety relief zone will be set up for those needing a break from the noise, ensuring everyone can enjoy the festivities. Multiple city garages will offer parking at special event rates of $15-$20, but make sure to arrive early as these spots may reach capacity quickly! There’s even free bike parking available to encourage eco-friendly adventures.

For those keen on reserving a spot along the parade route, reserved seating is available for purchase, starting at $61, while general seating remains free, allowing everyone to find a perfect viewing spot.

It’s worth mentioning that families affected by pediatric cancer will also be spotlighted at the parade, reaffirming the spirit of community support during this enchanting day.

A Day of Connection

The Children’s Gasparilla Parade promises to be a magical blend of excitement, community, and family engagement. So gather the family, put on your pirate best, and get ready to create delightful memories while joining Tampa in celebrating the wonders of childhood and community spirit!