Gasparilla 2026 Is Almost Here: Pirates, Parades & the 9th Annual Gasparilla Bar Crawl in Tampa
Tampa’s most legendary pirate takeover is back—and Gasparilla 2026 is shaping up to be one of the biggest celebrations yet.
From cannon fire on the bay to packed bars filled with beads, rum, and costumes, Gasparilla isn’t just an event, it’s a full-blown citywide party. And what’s one of the best ways to experience it? The 9th Annual Gasparilla Bar Crawl, Brunch & Festival.
If you’re planning your Gasparilla weekend, here’s everything you need to know and how you can enter to win 2 tickets to the bar crawl.
Tampa’s most legendary pirate takeover is back—and Gasparilla 2026 is shaping up to be one of the biggest celebrations yet.
A Brief History of Gasparilla: Tampa’s Pirate Tradition
Gasparilla dates back more than a century and is inspired by the legend of José Gaspar, a mythical Spanish pirate said to have roamed Florida’s Gulf Coast. Since 1904, Tampa has celebrated this lore with the iconic Parade of Pirates, where the pirate ship José Gasparilla sails into Tampa Bay, signaling the start of the festivities.
What began as a single parade has evolved into weeks of events, parties, and bar crawls, making Gasparilla one of the largest and most unique festivals in the country.
Why the Gasparilla Bar Crawl Is a Must-Do in 2026
While the parade kicks things off, the real fun often happens after, inside Tampa’s most popular bars.
The 9th Annual Gasparilla Bar Crawl, Brunch & Festival brings together:
- Pirate-themed drink specials
- Live DJs and party atmospheres
- Costumed crowds ready to celebrate
- Brunch options and daytime vibes
Instead of waiting in long lines or bouncing between random spots, the bar crawl gives you access to multiple venues, exclusive drink deals, and a built-in party all day long.
Whether you’re a Tampa local or visiting for Gasparilla 2026, this crawl is one of the easiest ways to experience the city’s nightlife during the festival.
Fun Things to Do During Gasparilla Weekend
Gasparilla weekend isn’t just about one event—it’s a full slate of things to do:
- Watch the Parade of Pirates along Bayshore
- Join a Gasparilla bar crawl with friends
- Dress up in pirate gear and hit brunch spots
- Capture photos with floats, beads, and costumes
- Follow the crowds to the liveliest bars in Tampa
The key? Planning ahead because the best bars and events fill up fast.
Enter to Win: 2 Tickets to the Downtown Crawlers Gasparilla Bar Crawl
Want to experience Gasparilla without missing a beat?
We’re giving away 2 tickets to the 9th Annual Gasparilla Bar Crawl, Brunch & Festival, so you and a friend can skip the FOMO and go straight to the fun.
Enter to win
Party across Tampa’s best bars
Celebrate Gasparilla 2026 the right way
Make Gasparilla 2026 One to Remember
Gasparilla only comes once a year—and Gasparilla 2026 is your chance to go all in. From pirate parades to packed bars and themed crawls, Tampa comes alive in a way you won’t find anywhere else.
Whether you’re planning your weekend, searching for the best bars, or looking to win your way into the party, AppyHour has you covered.
Download AppyHour®, enter the giveaway, and get ready to party like a pirate.
