Alright, Gasparilla is almost here… just as the Tampa Bay area is recovering from the Super Bowl hype.  And of course, that means parades, pirates, beads, and yes - traffic.  Ok, don’t panic.  Here’s a mini-survival guide to help you get to all of your celebrations and events as hassle-free as possible.

Events
Gasparilla Pirate Fest and Midway
Saturday, February 7, 2009, 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Occurs Downtown along Florida Ave. between Kennedy Blvd. and Channeside Dr. with additional stages in the northwest corner of the Publix supermarket located at Platt St. and Bayshore Blvd. and at the Channelside Plaza.
Gasparilla Invasion Brunch Schedule (a ticketed event)
Saturday, February 7, 2009, 10:00 AM - 1:30 PM
Occurs at the Tampa Convention Center
For ticket information, call EventFest (813) 251-8844

Gasparilla Parade
Saturday, February 7, 2009, 2:00 PM - 5:30 PM (approximately)
Starts on Bayshore Blvd. at Bay-to-Bay, moves north along Bayshore to the Platt St. Bridge, turns east on the Platt St. Bridge where the roadway becomes Channelside Dr., continues on Channelside to Florida Ave., turns north on Florida Ave. to Jackson St., turns east on Jackson St. and ends at Jackson St. & Morgan St.

Traffic
For a complete list of road closures, staging areas, and alternates, check out the City of Tampa’s Gasparilla Guide by clicking on the following link: Gasparilla Traffic Closures

Additional Notes

As a note, handicap parking and parade viewing is located south of Brorein St. and Florida Ave. under the Crosstown Expressway overpass.  Space is limited.  First come, first served.  You must have a valid disabled parking permit.
For more frequently asked questions regarding Gasparilla, click onto the following link:
Gasparilla Frequently-Asked Questions

And finally, the City of Tampa’s website has more great resources to help you safely navigate and enjoy Gasparilla 2009… just click on the following link and scroll over to the left-side of the page: Gasparilla Resources and Additional Information