A colorful 16:9 illustration for the Children's Gasparilla schedule, featuring a playful pirate theme with a treasure map, pirate ship, chest of gold coins, and a marked calendar. Cheerful icons like beads, swords, and pirate hats are scattered around, set against a vibrant Tampa skyline.

2025 Children’s Gasparilla Schedule

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Ahoy, Tampa moms! Children’s Gasparilla is back, and it’s jam-packed with activities to keep your little pirates entertained all day long. From sky-high aerobatics to glittering fireworks, this schedule is your treasure map to making the most of the day. Ready to set sail? Let’s dive in!

Full Schedule of Events for Children’s Gasparilla 2025

Here’s your detailed, mom-approved guide to all the fun and excitement happening on January 18, 2025.

Bicycle + Pedestrian Safety Rodeo

🕛 Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
🚴‍♂️ Location: Bayshore Boulevard

Kick off the day with a mix of fun and safety at the Bicycle + Pedestrian Safety Rodeo. Here’s what to expect:

  • Free Helmets: Every kid gets a brand-new helmet to keep (while supplies last—arrive early!).
  • Mini Traffic Course: Watch your mini-pirates navigate stop signs, crosswalks, and cones like pros.
  • No Bike? No Problem! Bikes will be available to borrow, so no one misses out.

Moms, this is the perfect way to sneak in a little safety bike education while the kids think they’re just having fun. Win-win!

Gasparilla Air Invasion

🕛 Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
✈️ Location: Bayshore Boulevard

Keep your eyes on the sky because the Gasparilla Air Invasion is soaring back with its biggest show yet!

  • Aerobatic Teams: Marvel at daring stunts performed by civilian pilots.
  • Vintage Military Aircraft: A history lesson disguised as cool planes flying overhead.
  • Parachute Demonstrations: The Chuters Parachute Team will make a gravity-defying entrance.

The airshow starts at noon and keeps the energy high right up until parade time.

Gasparilla Preschoolers’ Stroll

🕑 Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
👶 Location: Howard Avenue to Rome Avenue

Calling all tiny pirates! The Gasparilla Preschoolers’ Stroll, presented by Primrose Schools, is the cutest part of the day.

Tip: Get there early to snag a good viewing spot along Bayshore Boulevard!

Children’s Gasparilla Parade

🕓 Time: 4:00 PM – 6:15 PM
🎭 Location: Bay to Bay Boulevard to Edison Avenue

It’s time for the main event—the Children’s Gasparilla Parade! Here’s why it’s a must-see:

  • Massive Parade: It’s the biggest children’s event in the country, with pirates, floats, and marching bands.
  • Special Appearances: Tampa’s favorite sports teams, mascots, and beloved characters will make appearances.
  • Beads Galore: Moms, be prepared to haul home enough beads to open your own pirate gift shop!

Gasparilla Nighttime Air Invasion

🕕 Time: 6:15 PM – 7:00 PM
🌅 Location: Bayshore Boulevard

As twilight falls, the Gasparilla Nighttime Air Invasion takes over the skies.

  • Twilight Performances: Expect mesmerizing aerobatics set against a stunning sunset.
  • Fireworks Flight: Ghostwriter Airshows will wow the crowd with their signature fireworks finale.
  • Parachute Jumps: Watch The Chuters light up the night with their precision jumps.

This event transitions the festivities into a magical evening under the stars.

Piratechnic Finale

🕖 Time: 7:00 PM – 7:30 PM
🎆 Location: Bayshore Boulevard

End the day with a bang! The Piratechnic Finale combines fireworks with the ultimate pirate battle re-enactment.

  • Storytelling in the Sky: Watch the fireworks tell the tale of the pirates’ battle against the City of Tampa.
  • Bold and Colorful: Expect a dazzling display to cap off a day of pirate revelry.

Pro tip: Grab your spot early—this finale is a crowd favorite!

Tips for Making the Most of the Day

  • Arrive Early: Parking fills up quickly, so plan to arrive well before your favorite event.
  • Pack Snacks and Water: Keep your crew fueled for a full day of fun.
  • Dress for the Occasion: Pirate hats, eye patches, and comfortable shoes are a must!
  • Know Your Spots: Bring blankets or chairs for the parade and fireworks.

Set Sail for a Day of Fun

The 2025 Children’s Gasparilla is shaping up to be an unforgettable day for Tampa families. With this schedule in hand, you’ll be ready to tackle everything from safety courses to air invasions, preschool strolls, and fireworks. So grab your little pirates and head to Bayshore Boulevard for a day full of laughter, beads, and memories to treasure.

Happy Gasparilla, moms! Let the adventure begin! 🏴‍☠️✨