The Gasparilla festival is celebrated to remember the invasion by the pirate José Gasparilla and his men. It was first held in May of 1904 when the leaders of the city selected the pirate, but later it was

moved to the first Saturday in February since 1904. The trespassers were involved in a mock attack of the city with the help of the first Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla. The invaders were dressed in full pirate costumes. During the first invasion, the pirates arrived on horseback and captured the city that became the annual Gasparilla Pirate Festival and parade. It is held usually on January or February in Tampa Bay area, Florida in the United States.

The festival includes varied events such as the Gasparilla Brunch, Gasparilla Parade of the Pirates and the Gasparilla Invasion .The word “Gasparilla” means boats, parades, merriment and pirates. Vendors of all kinds including alcohol and food can be found every where during the parade route. In their own private ships participants are encouraged to join Gasparilla’s armada.