Top Tips for Enjoying Children’s Gasparilla

TAMPA, FL – Ahoy, mateys! Ashley Children’s Gasparilla presented by Chick-fil-A Tampa Bay is almost here, and we want to make sure your day is filled with swashbuckling fun and smooth sailing. Here are our top tips to ensure a treasure-filled adventure for you and your krewe:

1. Arrive Early
   Bayshore Boulevard fills up fast with eager landlubbers, so plan to arrive early to snag the best spots along the route. Give yer family extra time to navigate traffic, parking, and crowds. Plus, the bonus of early arrival? Enjoy family-friendly interactive experiences, including the Bicycle Rodeo, Preschooler’s Stroll presented by Primrose Schools, and more from our event partners, all starting at noon!
   Don’t want to tow the little mates early for your spot?! Reserved seating options from GasparillaTreasures.com ensure you’ll have the best spot for capturing beads without the hassle.
2. Chart Your Course
   Know where to go and what to do! Check out our Parade Route Map page to find all the treasured interactive opportunities and plan your day like a true captain.
3. Check the Schedule
   Don’t miss a moment of the action! Visit our Schedule of Events page to ensure you catch all the exciting activations throughout the day.
4. Visit the Bicycle Safety Rodeo
   Learn how to ensure smooth sailing on city streets and enjoy fun, hands-on activities when you visit our Bicycle Safety Rodeo. Plus, get a Child Safety Identification Tag from our friends at the Tampa Police Department.
5. Snap a Photo
   Take a photo of your child on event day. If you get separated, law enforcement will know exactly what your little matey be wearin’ can quickly assist in reuniting your krewe.
6. Mind the Bayshore Rules
   Bayshore Boulevard be reserved for official event vehicles only, so remember that there shall be no bicycles, runners or non-event vehicles on Bayshore on Parade Day.
7. Take a Break in the Sensory Relief Zone
   For families with little pirates who might feel overwhelmed by the excitement, we’ve got you covered. Thanks to the City of Tampa’s Autism Friendly Tampa, CARD-USF, and Sunrise Group, a Sensory Relief Zone is available at Barcelona Street for a calm and quiet break during the festivities.
8. Leave the alcohol at Home
   Children’s Gasparilla is a family-friendly, alcohol-free event. Save the cocktails for another day and enjoy a family-friendly celebration!
9. Take the Jolley Trolley
   Let someone else captain the ship! Park downtown and hop on the Jolley Roger Trolley to the parade. Details can be found on our Parking & Transportation page.
10. Leave Prohibited Items Behind
    Tents, beach umbrellas, coolers, and other prohibited items are not allowed. Styrofoam and glass are not allowed. Check our FAQs for a full list before heading out.
11. Keep Your Treasure Close
    Don’t leave your belongings unattended, and if you see anything suspicious, report it to law enforcement or security personnel.
12. Dress the Part
    Don your best pirate garb and bring your swagger! A proper pirate outfit will help you hook the best beads and make lasting memories.
13. Stay for the Finale
    Don’t sail off too soon! Stick around for the Nighttime Air Invasion featuring thrilling aerobatics at 6:15 PM, followed by the dazzling Piratechnic Fireworks Finale at 7 PM. The Piratechnic Finale is the largest show of the year in Tampa Bay and one of the largest fireworks presentations in Florida!

With these tips, your Children’s Gasparilla adventure is sure to be a day to remember. We can’t wait to see you there—anchors aweigh! 🏴‍☠️⚓