In this annual re-enactment of Tampa’s historic pirate invasion, the Gasparilla Flotilla creates a spectacular sight. The flotilla is led by the Jose Gasparilla, the only fully-rigged pirate ship in the world which is filled to the crow’s nest with swashbuckling pirates and followed by hundreds if not thousands of boats. When the Jose Gasparilla docks at the Tampa Convention Center, the Mayor of Tampa surrenders the Key to the City to the Captain and the Krewe celebrates their victory in a Parade of Pirates down Bayshore Boulevard. The invasion is free to the public. Pirate Fest features stages with live entertainment pre and post parade.
