Seminole Hard Rock Gasparilla Pirate Fest invades Tampa

TAMPA - Pirates are taking over Tampa once again for the annual Seminole Hard Rock Gasparilla Pirate Fest, organized by EventFest, Inc. and Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla.

Thousands are expected to participate in Tampa's biggest party.

In fact, some roads in downtown will be closed Saturday morning.

The invasion begins at 11:30 a.m. Saturday. Jose Gaspar and his buddies will sail through Hillsborough Bay and then into the Seddon Channel.

Thousands of boaters will watch the invasion as well as thousands on land.

A big brunch will be held during and after the invasion at the Tampa Convention Center.

The parade will start at 2 p.m. on Bayshore Boulevard. The route is about four miles long.

A Gasparilla Food Truck Rally will take place in a parking lot across the street from Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park on Ashley Drive between Cass and Polk.

Post parade, there will be live music between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. at the same park.

For detailed information on event schedules, parking, and more, check out www.gasparillapiratefest.com .