Gasparilla Children's Parade |
| Tuesday, March 16, 2010 |
Tampa's Fun Parade |
| Location | - | Bayshore Blvd., just SW of Downtown Tampa |
| Features | - | Kid's Parade, Preschooler's Stroll, Bicycle Rodeo, Air Show, Fireworks, Bead Catching |
| Area Activities | - | Sightseeing, Walking, Biking, Rollerblading |
| Parking | - | Free Parking |
| Kid Friendly | - | Yes |
| Map It | - | Detailed Map & Directions |
| Address | - | 2400 Bayshore Boulevard, Tampa Florida 33629 |
| Phone | - | 813-251-3500 |
| Extras | - | Nearby the Florida Aquarium |
| Conditions Now | - |
 Mostly Cloudy, and 53° |
Gasparilla Children's Parade
 |
 |
| What a big spectacle, with an estimated attendance of around 200,000. One can only imagine how many beads are tossed out to the energetic parade goers. |
It is a celebration for the kids, as the Gasparilla Children's Parade is an alcohol-free G-rated version of the following week's more wild and crazy Pirate Invasion and Parade. The Gasparilla tradition dates back to the early 1900's, inspired by the fictitious pirate Jose Gaspar. The legendary pirate roamed Tampa Bay, and stormed downtown by water, and the Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla was born.
Make a Day of it
For many families it is an all day outing, with fun activities scheduled from 11am to the early evening, topped with the fireworks display. Debbie Sims of Brandon stated, "We came out at around 9am to pick the best spot. After laying down our blankets and chairs, we went over to Hyde Park for breakfast, and we got back just before the Preschooler's Stroll to reclaim our spot!"
The day begins with the Bicycle Rodeo, for kids to ride bikes through a skills course. Next is the Preschooler's Stroll, where peewees and family members walk about a mile down the parade route all decked out in pirate wear. Then starts the first air show with vintage aircraft and parachute teams doing their thing in the sky. The parade follows, featuring beads, bands, dancers, floats, and lots of pirates. The day ends with the evening air invasion and fireworks display.
Good to Know
If you want to get up close, do come early and claim your piece of real estate along the route. It is just a bit less crowded on the waterside of Bayshore Blvd., as late comers must stay on the other side of the street. If you do come early, be prepared for the long breaks between the early events. Bring a few toys, books, and things to keep the kids occupied during the dry periods. Don't forget a bag for all your beads!!!
On a Normal Day
Bayshore Boulevard Park
Remove the approximate 200,000 parade goers and Bayshore Boulevard Linear Park is a wonderful 4.5-mile long waterfront scenic sidewalk leading into downtown Tampa. It is proclaimed as of the world's longest sidewalk. This is the place where the locals go for jogging, walking, people watching, and rollerblading. The park is close to popular Hyde Park Village and the Howard Avenue strip, both hot spots for trending shopping and dining.
More Info
The parade route runs up Bayshore Boulevard, from Bay to Bay Boulevard to Watrous/Orleans avenues. General admission is free for all. If you need more information, visit gasparillaextravaganza.com or call 813-353-8070.
