On Saturday, January 30th, Tampa Bay had its yearly Gasparilla parade. First held in 1904, Gasparilla is usually held during late January or early February. During the parade, dozens of floats throw beads, coins, and other trinkets into the crowds. This year, there was an estimate of 200,000 attendees that attended the parade. Gasparilla was inspired by native legend, Jose Gaspar, a Spanish pirate, who terrorized the shore line of West Florida during the 18th and early 19th century. According to Visit Tampa Bay, “Gasparilla is recognized as the largest pirate-themed parade in America, and the third largest parade overall.”
Alexis Baker, 11th grade, has attended Gasparilla ever since she was a child but started to go again this year. “What makes me come back is having my group of friends go and dress up.” she said.
On Friday, Mr. Mabe threw beads in the classroom as an early celebration of the parade. Mabe has been to Gasparilla for a total of 17 years and what makes him come back every year to attend the event is, “the people watching and beads”. Mr. Mabe’s favorite memory at Gasparilla was, “Riding my motorcycle surrounded by thousands of party goers.” he said.