The Gasparilla Pirate Invasion is set to return to downtown Tampa on Saturday, January 31, 2026. The event will take place along the waterfront at the Tampa Convention Center and is expected to draw large crowds for a day of activities.
The pirate invasion will begin around 11:30 a.m., with the main pirate ship arriving near the Tampa Convention Center at approximately 1:00 p.m. The event will proceed regardless of weather conditions.
For those attending the official Gasparilla Invasion Brunch, hosted by EventFest, the brunch will run from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Guests are instructed to enter through the Front Drive off Franklin Street and check in at the Channel Entrance. “Coolers and outside alcohol are not permitted anywhere on Tampa Convention Center property,” according to event organizers.
Attendees without brunch tickets can watch the invasion from The Sail Plaza, located directly outside the Tampa Convention Center along the Riverwalk. The Sail offers no cover charge, waterfront views of the pirate invasion, early opening at 9:00 a.m., pop-up bars outside the convention center, food from Big Ray’s Fish Camp and food trucks, as well as live music throughout the day. Caribbean Experience will perform from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., followed by Romaine Lawrence on steel drums from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis for paying customers.
A designated ADA viewing area will be available near the Tampa Convention Center Front Drive along the Riverwalk.
Visitors should expect significant traffic congestion and increased pedestrian activity in downtown Tampa during Gasparilla. Several road closures are planned in connection with the event.
Parking is available at multiple locations including 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.), and Whiting St. Garage (N. Morgan St.). Event parking costs $30 per day at each garage, but spaces are expected to fill early.
Guests also have alternative transportation options such as parking in Ybor City and taking the free TECO Line Streetcar to Dick Greco Plaza across from The Sail Plaza.
Rideshare drop-off and pick-up spots are located in front of Harpoon Harry’s Crab House at 225 S. Franklin Street; these areas also accommodate ADA visitors as well as Uber, Lyft, and taxi passengers.
For further details about Gasparilla events, more information can be found online.
