You’ve probably heard the word buzzing around campus since coming back from break. Seasoned seniors and juniors have been preparing for this Tampa tradition for months. For students who don’t know, Gasparilla is Tampa’s claim to pirate fame. Jose Gaspar, a swash-buckling Spaniard, gave the festival it’s name. Today, crowds flock to the downtown area and Bayshoreww Boulevard to see the colorful floats, boats, and beads. Tampa Native and Junior Jill Gempel started attending Gasparilla when she was a little girl at the Kid’s Parade, but now that she’s older she appreciates the festival even more.
While the parade and festivities provide a lot of fun, there are things you should know before walking the plank and diving into Gasparilla. Take sophomore Stevie Ruzich for example. Last year she went to Gasparilla for the first time and made an elaborate pirate costume to get into the spirit. “I had high heeled pirate boots with skulls on them, but I didn’t make it to the parade because my feet were bleeding from the heels,” said Ruzich. “So this year I’m going with flip-flops.” Avoid these mistakes and others with our list of the top ten must-know survival tips for the Gasparilla newbies and oldies alike.
10. Know your history.
According to Gasparilla’s official website, Jose Gaspar was an infamous pirate who roamed Florida’s waters during the late 1700s and early 1800s. The Spanish aristocrat turned pirate called himself Gasparilla. Little is known about his life, but his diary states that during his first 12 years as a pirate, he captured and burned 36 ships. During his final pillage, he was almost captured. Knowing he could not escape, he wrapped a chain around his waist and neck and sank to the bottom of the ocean. Legend has it that Gaspar left buried treasure somewhere along Florida’s western coast. Although the treasure was never discovered, the memory of Gasparilla returned in 1904 when Tampa’s leaders made him the mascot of their citywide celebration now known today as Gasparilla. This is why every January the 100-year-old Ye Mystic Krewe comes together to invade Tampa Bay, but returns Gaspar’s treasures via plastic beads and pirate-y revelry.
9. Get your pirate swag on.
Get into the Gasparilla spirit by finding some pirate attire in head of time. Check out the nearest party store if you want to pay for a costume, or even check out thrift stores in the area to find unique pieces. Looking into your own closet, grab some essentials such as: brown boots, pantaloons (jeggings), and loose-fitted tops that button up or are striped and torn. Scarves can be turned into pirate head accessories in a pinch. Also look out for campus events like Pirate Fest or even in your own residence halls to make additional goodies.
8. Be prepared for all types of weather.
The parade happens rain or shine, excluding severe weather like excessive winds and lighting. If the skies look cloudy, be sure to have umbrellas, ponchos, and/or galoshes handy. Keep yourself updated by looking at the weather forecast for the weekend before heading out. On the bright side, at least you won’t have to worry about snow.
7. Get there early.
You want a good spot for the parade. Gasparilla includes more than just the parade. In McDill Park, along Ashley Drive and Whiting Street in Downtown Tampa, the Danny Lozada y el Latin Band will be providing entertainment from 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. at the Invasion Stage. Also be sure not to miss out on the ship invasion of Tampa Bay where they’ll shoot beaded necklaces from cannons. Also be sure to look for the infamous Ye Mystic Pirate Krewe manning Jose Gaspar’s ship.
6. Wear Sunscreen.
Even though it’s January, the sun is still shining and UV rays will burn your skin if you’re not prepared. Be careful when by the water because the reflections of the sun off the water are stronger than you may think. Load up on sunscreen with a high SPF in the morning then bring a little bottle to reapply throughout the day.
5. Drink plenty of water.
The sun will burn your skin, but it can also dehydrate you. Eat a good breakfast in the morning, and have a bottle of water with you throughout the day. There are food vendors lining the parade route, but if you want to save some money, get a meal exchange to go.
4. Stay in groups.
There is safety in numbers. Gasparilla brings all of Tampa, so there will be thousands of people along the parade route and in Downtown. Cell reception may go down because of the crowds, so be sure to have a planned meeting spot with your friends in case you get separated.
3. Practice people watching.
With so many different types of people in one place, your eyes will be going every which way to catch a glimpse of all the interesting parade goers. Keep an eye out for crazies, because while they can be entertaining, they could be dangerous. Also keep an eye out for pirates walking around with unique beaded necklaces so you have a chance to nab one as a souvenir.
2. Be Green.
Don’t throw your trash and bottled containers on the ground. Gasparilla has a recycling program. According to the official site, in 2007, with the help of Busch Gardens, Sea World, the City of Tampa Solid Waste and EventFest, Inc., recycling containers will be spread throughout the city. Be sure to look for these receptacles so that you can help keep the parade clean and fun for everyone.
1. Know your after-parties.
Curtis Hixon Park will host music and food for the evening, following the parade and the rest of the festivities. Starting at 5 p.m., Daniel B. Marshall will be performing, followed by C’NERGY and the Skycoasters until 10 p.m. Enjoy the waterfront and wind down after the parade by relaxing under the museum lights and spending time with your friends.
Natalie Hicks and Amanda Sieradzki can be reached at minaret.arts@gmail.com.