Gasparilla Invasion 2012

On January 28th, the invasion of Tampa Bay will commence!  Starting at 11:30am,  the gigantic Gasparilla Pirate Ship filled with hundreds of fully dressed pirates with explosive canons will head its way through the waters between Davis and Harbour Islands. 

Come out to the waters on the islands and try to catch as many beads as possible, but it is pretty competitive so be forewarned! It is not only the Gasparilla Pirate Ship that throws these beads, but also the hundreds of boats that join the invasion. Put the invasion on the top of your list for Gasparilla and find a way to Davis or Harbour Island early, or the previous night.  It helps to know a friend or family member that lives on the islands, but either way it is suggested to get to these locations as early as possible to avoid the deadlocked crowds!  After the invasion, you can start your way over the bridge to Downtown Tampa in order to celebrate the Gasparilla Parade that starts just shortly after the invasion.

Prior to the Invasion, there is a brunch offered at the Tampa Convention Center that requires tickets.  This also offers great views of the Gasparilla Pirate Ship invading the dock right in front of the Tampa Convention Center.