Avast, ye landlubbers of Tampa! Today, the city braces for some high-seas pageantry as the famed Gasparilla Pirate Fest kicks off with an unusual request—pirates demanding the "Key to the City." Reminiscent of lore and legend, members of Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla will take to the streets, in a colorful prelude to Saturday's grander celebration, to lay down their demand before Mayor Jane Castor, according to the official City of Tampa website.
The Gasparilla festivities begin with a parade to the mayor’s office, followed by a gathering at Lykes Gaslight Park at noon. The event, part of the annual Invasion and Parade of the Pirates, will include simulated cannon fire, creating loud but harmless commotion, according to the City of Tampa.
Mayor Jane Castor will participate in the Gasparilla tradition. Media and onlookers are encouraged to watch the mock negotiations at Lykes Gaslight Park, where the public event will be held due to space limitations at City Hall.
The city invites the public and media to watch the Mayor’s Raid, which will be streamed live on the City of Tampa Facebook page. Media parking is available along the north curb of Kennedy Boulevard between Franklin and Tampa streets.
