The family version of the Gasparilla pirate invasion gives kids their own parade on Saturday, along with an air show, bike rodeo and fireworks in the chilly weather. Back in 1904, Tampa city leaders came up with a “pirate invasion” on horseback during the city’s May Day festival and it later evolved into its own pirate-themed parade and festival based on the story of the mythical pirate Jose .
Children’s Gasparilla is more than a parade. The G-rated counterpart to the bacchanal that will take over Tampa at the end of the month will be a day full of family-friendly fun, with the kids as the stars on Saturday, Jan. 20. But first, some background on Gasparilla. Back in 1904, Tampa city leaders came up with a “pirate invasion” on horseback during the city’s May Day festival and it later .