The Gasparilla Pirate Festival is an annual celebration held in Tampa, Florida, typically in late January. It commemorates the legendary pirate José Gaspar, who is said to have roamed the Gulf of Mexico in the early 19th century. The festival features a grand parade, where a flotilla of pirate ships invades the city, and thousands of participants dress in pirate costumes. In addition to the parade, the festival includes various events such as live music, children's activities, and food vendors. The Gasparilla Festival is a significant cultural event for the community, attracting locals and tourists alike to enjoy the festivities and pirate-themed fun.