Girl dressed as pirate at Glazer Children's Museum for Pirate Invasion

“Pirate Invasion” takes over Glazer Children’s Museum

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Arrrgh you ready to play? This January, Glazer Children’s Museum invites families to hoist the sails of adventure and dive into Pirate Invasion, a month-long, swashbuckling celebration in honor of Tampa’s legendary Gasparilla season.

Beginning January 6, 2026, young buccaneers and their crews can explore hands-on pirate fun packed with creativity, history, and play-based learning, all included with Museum admission.

Throughout January, families can craft their own pirate gear like swords and necklaces, sharpen their pirate skills with rotating daily activities and demonstrations, and set off on a weekly scavenger hunt using their “pirate’s eye” to uncover hidden treasure. There will be pirate-themed storytimes and visits from special guests throughout the month.

More Than Make-Believe: Play Builds Skills for Life

Pirate Invasion activities are thoughtfully designed to spark imagination while strengthening creativity, fine motor skills, problem-solving, collaboration, and curiosity, core elements of Glazer Children’s Museum’s play-with-purpose approach.

“Gasparilla is in Tampa’s DNA and Pirate Invasion is our way of welcoming families into that tradition through joyful, meaningful play,” said Sarah Cole, President and CEO of Glazer Children’s Museum. “Kids aren’t just pretending to be pirates, they’re building confidence, creativity, and connection through hands-on experiences that celebrate our city’s unique history.”

Special Pirate Invasion Events & Guest Appearances:

Parrots at Glazer Children's Museum in celebration of Gasparilla.

Tampa Bay Parrots Visit | January 10–11, 2026, 11 am–1 pm
Bring your flock for a squawk-tastic meet-and-greet with real parrots from our friends at Tampa Bay Parrots.
GCM open 9:30 am–5 pm

Tampa Bay History Center Presentation | January 17, 2026, 11 am
Learn the real history behind Gasparilla and the legend of José Gaspar with experts from the Tampa Bay History Center.
GCM open 9:30 am–5 pm

Gasparilla Children’s Parade | January 24, 2026
GCM is open on the day of the children’s parade! Play, parade, then play some more! Start your day with Team GCM, head to the parade, then return to the Museum to show off your beads and keep the fun going.
GCM open 9:30 am–5 pm

Gasparilla Pirate Festival | January 31, 2026
It’s a full pirate invasion across Tampa Bay!
Glazer Children’s Museum will be CLOSED on January 31, 2026.

A Gasparilla Tradition for the Whole Family

Recently ranked among the Top 10 Children’s Museums in the country by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, Glazer Children’s Museum continues to be a must-visit destination during Gasparilla season—especially for families with young children looking for playful, enriching experiences.

For hours, admission, and event details, visit GlazerMuseum.org.