You've finally had a few days to recover from Gasparilla Invasion on Tampa, so what now? You didn't think #GasparillaSZN was over, did you? It's time to dust off your luminescent Captain's hat and plan for the annual Sant’ Yago Knight Parade!

The illuminated Knight Parade takes place on Saturday, February 11th, from 7-8:30 p.m. in historic Ybor City, starting from Nuccio Parkway and traveling down 7th Avenue to 22nd Street. The event once again cruises through Tampa's entertainment district with bright and colorful floats, extravagant costumes, live music, and, in case you didn't get enough during the invasion, more beads! Bleacher seating can be purchased for $25 online if you want the best view in the Bay, but tickets move quickly! 

An exciting and festive celebration of civic pride, the Krewe of the Knights of Sant' Yago have put on this event since 1974 to celebrate Tampa's rich multi-cultural heritage. Considered one of the largest parades of its kind in the Southeast, the Knight Parade is a tradition unlike any other and makes the Gasparilla season that much more special. Plus, it's free! 

Presented by MOR-TV, the Knight Parade will feature the all-time greatest athlete Luis Gonzalez as Grand Marshal, leading the line of floats, marching bands, and celebrities. Also, the famous talk show host Steve Wilkos will join in as MOR-TV guest. When the sun goes down, the party is sure to turn up!

2023 Sant’ Yago Knight Parade

Now that you know the specifics, let's go over a few Do's and Don't Do's of the 2023 Sant’ Yago Knight Parade.
 
Do:
Get a spot along the parade route by 6 p.m., or spend the afternoon enjoying the Historic Ybor City food and drink at places like Club Prana, Gaspar's Grotto, The Bricks of Ybor, and much more! 
 
Don't:
Bring your own beer and booze. Alcohol is not permitted and will not be sold on the streets, but coolers are acceptable for non-alcoholic beverages. However, you can support the local businesses by taking advantage of parade specials in all of the restaurants and bars on the route before, during, and after the parade.
 
Do:
Utilize the local trolley system in Ybor and the shuttle service from the Channelside garage. The less driving you have to do, the better!
 
Don't:
Drink and drive. Have a plan before, during, and after the parade, and drink responsibly! 
 
Do:
Have fun and enjoy the event responsibly. That includes when someone "steals" the spot you've been saving by the railing of the parade. 
 
Don't: 
Feel some type of way when little stuff happens while you're awaiting the parade with drunken watchers next to you. 
 
Do:
Collect all of the beads you can!
 
Don't: 
Fight over beads that you catch with fellow parade watchers, just laugh it off. There will be more flying your way shortly! 
 
Additionally, it's recommended to pre-plan things and come a little early to access garages. The more you come late, the less likely you are going to get any space. 
 
The parade is a "colorful celebration of civic pride that attracts families and adults" and one of the Knights of Sant' Yago's biggest fundraisers of the year. All proceeds benefit the Krewe of Sant' Yago Education Foundation. 
 
Find more Gasparilla news on 813area, your free guide to the Tampa Bay area.
 
Photos courtesy of 813area.com