Gasparilla, considered an almost holiday in the eyes of Tampa residents, looms around the corner, taking place this Saturday, January 28.  Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla hosts the parade, which is the third largest parade in the entire country.

Student Alex Diaz said, “Gasparilla is my favorite holiday of the year.  I have gone every year, even before I lived in Tampa.  It is fun, exciting, and you get free beads.  It is a good time and I am excited to go again this year.”

The festivities begin with the pirate invasion.  After sailing on the colossal pirate ship for an hour and a half, the crew will invade the city at the Tampa Convention Center at 1 P.M.  The parade will begin at Bay to Bay Boulevard and Bayshore Boulevard and go all the way downtown to Cass Street and Ashley Drive.

The parade will consist of many floats belonging to different crews, companies, radio stations, local professional sports, and more.  Also, bands from several high schools will be marching in the parade as well.

Admission to the parade is free, except for reserved seating in private tents.  The parade starts around 3:30 and will last until about 5: 30.

To ensure a safe and fun event for families in the Tampa Bay Area, Police Officer Roy Paz visited Academy this past Monday, January 23, as he does for all  private schools, public schools, and the MacDill Air Force Base to inform students and the public about the zero-tolerance policy.  This policy takes away any discretion of the police officers and strictly enforces the law, safety, and responsible public behavior.

Officer Pax did said that in the past few years no students from private schools have been arrested. “So don’t stay away.  Obey the law and enjoy Gasparilla with your family  and friends.”