Gasparilla Pirate Fest

Tampa's Swashbuckling Adventure

Ahoy, mateys! Welcome to the Gasparilla Pirate Fest, Tampa Bay’s legendary celebration that turns the city into a pirate's paradise. Held annually, this festival is named after the mythical pirate José Gaspar and has become one of Tampa's most anticipated events, drawing thousands of visitors for a day of parades, festivities, and pirate-themed fun.


A Festival Steeped in History

The Gasparilla Pirate Fest has been a Tampa tradition since 1904, evolving from a small gathering to a grand citywide event. It commemorates the legend of José Gaspar, a mythical Spanish pirate who supposedly operated in Southwest Florida. The festival captures the spirit of Gaspar's mythical adventures, celebrating Tampa’s rich maritime history.


The Invasion: A Spectacle on the Bay

The festivities kick off with the Gasparilla Invasion, where the fully-rigged pirate ship "Jose Gasparilla" sails into Tampa Bay, flanked by a flotilla of hundreds of boats. The mayor of Tampa surrenders the key to the city to the pirate captain in a mock invasion, marking the start of the celebrations.


The Parade of Pirates: A Float Extravaganza

Following the invasion, the Parade of Pirates takes center stage. This massive parade features elaborately decorated floats, marching bands, and, of course, swarms of pirates. The parade route along Bayshore Boulevard is lined with revelers dressed in pirate attire, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.


Family Fun and Entertainment

Gasparilla Pirate Fest is more than just a parade; it's a full day of entertainment. The festival includes live music, food vendors, and activities for all ages. The Gasparilla Children's Parade, held a week earlier, is a family-friendly event with its own kid-centric parade, ensuring that pirates of all ages can join in the fun.


Joining the Pirate Invasion

For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the Gasparilla experience, pirate costumes are a must. The festival is known for its creative and elaborate pirate attire, with many attendees going all out in their buccaneer best.


The Gasparilla Pirate Fest is a unique blend of history, fun, and community spirit. It's a time when Tampa Bay transforms into a lively pirate town, offering an experience unlike any other. Whether you're joining the invasion, watching the parade, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, Gasparilla is a Tampa tradition not to be missed.  Ready to set sail for adventure? Mark your calendars for the next Gasparilla Pirate Fest and join Tampa's most exciting pirate celebration. For more information on dates and events, visit GasparillaPirateFest.com and VisitTampaBay.com.

Ride High on the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel

July 29, 2025
Ready to take your beach day to new heights? Hop on the 187-foot SkyWheel in Myrtle Beach and float above the boardwalk in your own glassy, air-conditioned gondola—panoramic views, zero sand in your shoes. By day, it’s all sunshine and sea breeze; by night, it’s a spinning LED light show you can’t miss. It’s big, it’s bold, and it’s the ultimate sky-high selfie spot.

Myrtle Beach: Leading the Way in Accessible Beach Vacations

July 21, 2025
Myrtle Beach is making waves as one of the country’s most welcoming beach destinations, with a serious commitment to accessible travel . From fully accessible beach entrances and free beach-going wheelchairs to adaptive golf carts and sensory-friendly attractions, Myrtle Beach rolls out the sandy carpet for everyone. The Grand Strand’s wide, flat beaches, wheelchair-friendly boardwalks, and inclusive entertainment make sure that unforgettable coastal adventures are truly for all. It’s not just a vacation—it’s Myrtle Beach’s promise to make travel easy, joyful, and barrier-free.

Ride the Rails: Discover America by Train

July 15, 2025
A train journey isn't just about getting from point A to point B—it's an experience that connects you with the history, culture, and stunning beauty of America. Imagine traveling through breathtaking landscapes, from the rugged mountains of Colorado to the misty peaks of the Great Smokies, all while soaking in the nostalgia of steam engines or the luxury of modern cars. Whether it's sipping wine on the Napa Valley Wine Train or feeling the thrill of the Wild West on the Durango & Silverton, a railroad trip offers adventure, relaxation, and a glimpse into America's soul. Make your next vacation one to remember—hop on board and let the rails take you on a timeless journey!

Tampa’s Hidden Gem: Madame Fortune Dessert + HiFi Parlour

July 15, 2025
Hidden in the heart of Ybor City, Tampa, behind an unassuming bookcase in the Roast Deli, lies Madame Fortune Dessert + HiFi Parlour—a speakeasy that beautifully blends history, culture, and culinary creativity. Named after the influential Black pioneer, Madame Fortune Taylor, this hidden spot offers more than just a night out; it’s an experience steeped in rich Tampa history and vibrant flavors. Once inside, you’ll find yourself in an intimate, dimly-lit space where eclectic decor meets a cozy atmosphere. The menu is a delightful homage to West Indian culinary traditions, featuring dishes like oxtail pepper pot and sweet potato pancakes with plantains. Pair these with innovative cocktails, such as their signature plantain-smoked Old Fashioned, and you’re in for a treat that’s both soulful and satisfying. Madame Fortune doesn’t just serve up great food and drinks; it’s a place where stories of Tampa’s overlooked Black neighborhoods are told, making it a unique destination for those who want to explore the city’s cultural roots while enjoying a chic, speakeasy vibe. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, this hidden gem offers a taste of Tampa you won’t forget. Plan your visit to Madame Fortune Dessert + HiFi Parlour and dive into an experience that’s as rich in history as it is in flavor​.

Gay Dolphin

July 9, 2025
Myrtle Beach’s Most Iconic and Quirky Beach Shop

Myrtle Beach Swings Big

July 7, 2025
Championship Golf to Mini Golf Magic

Tampa’s Black History: Stories That Shaped the City

July 3, 2025
Tampa’s rich Black history comes to life in the streets, stories, and soulful spaces of The Scrub—one of the city’s oldest African American neighborhoods. Once a vibrant hub where Black-owned businesses, jazz clubs, and family homes thrived, The Scrub’s legacy now echoes in the powerful public art of Perry Harvey Sr. Park and will soon take center stage at the Tampa Black History Museum, opening next year. Here, larger-than-life sculptures, interactive displays, and a winding timeline walk honor the resilience, culture, and contributions of Tampa’s Black community. It’s a place where past and present meet—and where every step tells a story worth remembering.

The Carolina Opry

July 1, 2025
Myrtle Beach’s Must-See Showstopper

Celebrating America's Spirit: A Journey of Festivals Across the Nation!

July 1, 2025
From the surreal heights of hot air balloons filling the sky in New Mexico to the quirky charm of pickle-themed festivities in Pittsburgh, America's festivals are a vibrant celebration of culture, community, and fun. Whether it's a lumberjack competition in Wisconsin, a chilling tribute in Colorado, or an adrenaline-fueled leap in West Virginia, each festival offers a unique glimpse into the diverse traditions and joyful spirit that make the USA extraordinary. Come experience the fun, adventure, and unforgettable moments that these festivals bring to life!

Beach Easy: Sips, Swings & SkyHigh Views

June 25, 2025
Discover the easygoing magic of Myrtle Beach —where craft beers, fine dining, world-class golf, and laid-back seaside adventures come together for the ultimate coastal escape. Spend your days swinging on championship greens, shopping the lively boardwalk, fishing from iconic piers, and taking in sweeping Grand Strand views from the SkyWheel. Cap it off with a night at the Carolina Opry, where the music and memories linger long after the final note. This is your guide to sips, swings, and sky-high views—Beach Easy style.