Arghhhh

With the Superbowl that took place in Tampa behind us, use Tamponians geared up for another celebration this weekend that we affectionately know as the Gasparilla Pirate Festival.

For those who don't know, Gasparilla is a festival that was started in 1904. It is named for Jose Gaspar, a legendary pirate that lived in the 18th and 19th century. The festival starts out with an invasion of the bay by a ship built in 1954 to be the world's only fully rigged pirate ship to be built in modern times. It is named the Jose Gasparilla and it is a replica of the ship he used in the 18th century. The ship is constructed of steel at 165' long by 35' across the beam, with 3 steel masts standing 100' tall. Other boats can participate in the invasion as well and often will dress up as pirates, play music, and throw beads to the crowd. After invasion comes the Flotilla parade along Bayshore Blvd which usually consist of area businesses, sponsors, and marching bands which again throw beads to the crowd. " And know you know the rest of the story..."

This year Parker had to work so I headed down myself to my friend Erica's place on Davis Island about a mile from the parade route to begin the festivities. I think this was the busiest I've seen the festivities in 3 years. I even caught a few beads...but the end of the day we were worn out. Driving home...an absolute traffic nightmare. Another great Gasparilla; there is nothing like being a part of a fun local tradition.

The Jose Gasparilla ship

I love the skyline

the parade route..you can really see how big this is
of course people dress up
Toby

Dana enjoying Rummy Bears

thanks to Erica for the eye patch..arrrrr

a celebration for all ages :)

even dogs get beads

Kim and I

we loved the hook

the hostess with the most est