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Gasparilla 2012

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JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF

As always, the invasion began with a flotilla making its way to downtown Tampa.

JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF

Parade goers try for beads as a float from the Krewe of Augustina.

Photo by Mike Camunas.

Pirates danced and tossed beads during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Out of beads, a pirate offers high-fives near Platt Street and Bayshore Boulevard during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas.

A happy parade goer gets not only a necklace of beads from a pirate, but a matching bracelet, as well.

Photo by Mike Camunas.

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas.

A pirate passes out pink beads to throngs of happy women during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas.

Spectators in the stands jump to catch beads during the Gasparilla Parade on Saturday.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

A couple of float riders wind up to toss beads into the crowd at Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas.

These ladies are all smiles after getting a good bounty of beads during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

http://twitter.com/ChristinaCNN/status/163988778413862912/photo/1

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

A father and son contemplate how to get more beads during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas.

Captain Morgan fits right in at Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas.

A large crowd near Platt Street and Bayshore Boulevard is more than ready for more beads during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas.

A pirate wench passes out more beads during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa mayor Bob Buckhorn throws out beads during Saturday's Gasparilla parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas.

This little boy is rewarded with yet another necklace of beads.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas.

Tampa Bay Rays pitcher David Price adjusts his head camera and rides in a car with his French bulldog, Astro.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa Bay Rays pitcher James Shields throws out foam baseballs during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas.

Clydesdale horses bring by the Budweiser wagon.

Photo by Mike Camunas.

Plant cheerleaders bring in the Class 8A state champ Panthers during Saturday's Gasparilla parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Plant coach Robert Weiner throws out beads along with his Class 8A state champ Panthers.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Kathryn Dennis and David Ramsdell get ready to celebrate Ramsdell's 60th Gasparilla. Ramsdell has been attending the parade since he was five. "I remember when it was just a little parade (laughs)," Ramsdell said.

Photo by Mike Camunas.

A Florida State Trooper eggs on the crowd with a "Tampa Bay" chant.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade.

Photo by Mike Camunas.

A pirate wench takes a photo of Jose Gaspar ship invading Channelside and landing at the Tampa Bay Convention Center.

Photo by Mike Camunas.

Channelside crowded with boats after Jose Gaspar's ship lands at the Tampa Bay Convention Center.

Photo by Mike Camunas.

Parade goers eagerly await beads.

Photo by Mike Camunas.

Vendors hock their wares on Bayshore Boulevard before the Gasparilla Parade on Saturday.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

Hands wave for beads along Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade on Saturday.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

One youngster checks out beads she received during the Gasparilla parade.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

One boy tries to get the attention of some bead-throwers on the Les Belles Femmes float.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

Pirates walking the parade rout get the attention of folks looking for beads.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

A pirate toss beads to a young Gasparilla fan during Saturday's parade.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

Tampa Bay Rays pitcher David Price was among the grand marshals of the parade, along with teammates Matt Joyce and James Shields.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

One little girl sets up shop for the parade with a sign to get the attention of bead-throwers.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

Some dancing tuba players with the Plant High School band perform during the Gasparilla parade.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

ThunderBug, the Tampa Bay Lightning's mascot, tosses beads to the crowd during the Gasparilla parade.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

Member of the state champion Plant High School football team participate in the Gasparilla parade. The state champion Armwood High team was also in the parade.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

Plant High school quarterback James Few stands atop a float representing his team during the Gasparilla parade. Plant won the state championship in Class 8A this season.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

The Plant High School marching band was among the musical units in the Gasparilla parade.

PUAL LAMISON/STAFF

Some pirates prefer to walk the Gasparilla parade route.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

A band makes its way down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

A pirate hands out beads during the Gasparilla parade.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

A band of pirates makes their way down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

Pirates make their way down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

Pirates make their way down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

A group of female pirates, or wenches, makes its way down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

The Gasparilla parade gets under way on Bayshore Boulevard.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

Floats make their way down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

Hands go up for beads as the Gasparilla parade goes by.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

Some have better seats that others at the Gasparilla parade.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

Revelers wait for the Gasparilla parade to get under way.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

Revelers wait for the Gasparilla parade floats.

JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF

Pirates invade during Gasparilla.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

A float makes its way down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade.

JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF

Pirates invate during Gasparilla.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

Parade floats make their way down the route during Gasparilla.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

Mayor Bob Buckhorn walks the Gasparilla parade route.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

Parade floats make their way down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

A police vehicle travels down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

Hands go up for beads as the Gasparilla parade gets under way.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

The Gasparilla parade gets under way in Tampa.

RICHARD MAYER/STAFF

Clydesdales make their way down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

Floats make their way down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

A band travels down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade.

Rick Mayer/Staff

Matt Joyce, one of three grand marshals for the Gasparilla parade, throws out beads.

DAVID KRAUT/STAFF

Boats in the floatilla for Gasparilla make their way into downtown Tampa.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

Gasparilla revelers arrived early for the parade.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

Gasparilla revelers make their way to the parade route.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

Parade attendees arrived early to get good spots along the route for Gasparilla.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

Parade attendees arrived early to get good spots along the route for Gasparilla.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

One Gasparilla reveler may have found the largest beads of all.

JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF

Gasparilla attracs pirates off all kinds.

JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF

Gasparilla attracts pirates off all kinds.

JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF

Gasparilla attracts pirates off all kinds.

JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF

Gasparilla attracts pirates off all kinds.

JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF

Jose Gaspar's ship makes it's way into downtown Tampa.

JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF

Jose Gaspar's ship makes it's way into downtown Tampa.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

Revelers began ligning up early for the Gasparilla parade.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

Parade goers started lining up early for the good spots.

RICK MAYER/STAFF

Gasparilla inspires all kinds of pirates.

WFLA

Boats in the floatilla for Gasparilla make their way to downtown Tampa.

WFLA

Boats in the floatilla for Gasparilla make their way to downtown Tampa.

WFLA

Boats in the floatilla for Gasparilla make their way to downtown Tampa.

WFLA

Boats in the floatilla for Gasparilla make their way to downtown Tampa.

WFLA

Boats in the floatilla for Gasparilla make their way to downtown Tampa.

WFLA

Boats in the floatilla for Gasparilla make their way to downtown Tampa.

WFLA

Boats in the floatilla for Gasparilla make their way to downtown Tampa.

January 28, 2012 Tampa - Boats head out towards the bay for Saturday's Gasparilla Invasion. JASON BEHNKEN / STAFF

CHIP OSOWSKI/STAFF

Tampa police hold a roll call at Bayshore Boulevard and Howard Avenue before starting patrols for Gasparilla.

CHIP OSOWSKI/STAFF

Signs like this one around the Gasparilla event warn patrons about the city's zero tolerance policy.

JAY CONNER/STAFF

As is tradition in the days before Gasparilla, pirates stormed City Hall, and told the mayor to surrender.

JOSH POLTILOVE/STAFF

A sign of warning hangs outside the Mayor Bob Buckhorn's office today.

JOSH POLTILOVE/STAFF

As is tradition in the days before Gasparilla, pirates stormed City Hall, and told the mayor to surrender.

JOSH POLTILOVE/STAFF

As is tradition in the days before Gasparilla, pirates stormed City Hall, and told the mayor to surrender.

JOSH POLTILOVE/STAFF

As is tradition in the days before Gasparilla, pirates stormed City Hall, and told the mayor to surrender.

JAY CONNER/STAFF

As is tradition in the days before Gasparilla, pirates stormed City Hall, and told the mayor to surrender.

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-- Robert Dominguez (at left) a performing artist in Tampa, makes balloon figures for kids before the start of the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whit the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-- Reilly Farmer, age 3, sported a hat and boa for the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whit the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-- In a new feature at the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza, Jose Gaspar's image was projected on the sails of the pirate ship as he told the crowd that he was ready to take over the city of Tampa. The event also featured a parade, and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12--Zachary Hanna, age 4, was at his pirate's best during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12--Arianna Cook, age 6, prepares to party during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12--It was all about beads during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12--Everybody wanted beads during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12--No one knew which direction beads would come from during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-Pirates were in control during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12--Pirates threw beads during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-- The crowd cried out for beads during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whit the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12--Pirates of all ages threw beads to the crowd during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12--People watch a fireworks display during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and the fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12--Nathanial Sanchez, age 3, was at his pirate's best during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-- Jackson Zill, age 18 months, took a breather crom collecting beads Saturday. A variety of floats rolled down the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza parade route on Bayshore Blvd. passing beads to the crowd. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whit the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-- (l to r) Dena Jones, daughters Genea Jones, 3, Makyla Jones, 5, and husband and dad Gerry Jones, check out their loot after collecting it from a variety of floats that rolled down the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza parade route on Bayshore Blvd. Saturday. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whit the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-- The crowd cried out for beads as a variety of floats rolled down the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza parade route on Bayshore Blvd. Saturday. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whit the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-- (l to r) Sam Johnson, 7, sister Amanda Johnson, 9, and their brother Mack Johnson, 11, wear special glasses as they watch a new feature, Jose Gaspar addressing the crowd, during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza Bayshore Blvd. Saturday. The event featured a parade, the Jose Gaspar event and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-- The crowd cried out for beads aspirates on a variety of floats threw them during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza parade on Bayshore Blvd. Saturday. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whit the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF

ANDY JONES/STAFF

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

The Gasparilla Children's Extravaganza closed with a fireworks show over Hillsborough Bay.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

A fireworks display caps off the Gasparilla Children's Extravaganza, which featured the annual children's parade on Bayshore Boulevard.

DEBBIE SWARTZ/STAFF

The Jose Gasparilla pirate ship appeared at the Gasparilla Children's Parade.

DEBBIE SWARTZ/STAFF

Parade units prepare for the beginning of Saturday's Children's Gasparilla Parade.

DEBBIE SWARTZ/STAFF

Children get ready for Saturday's Gasparilla Children's Parade.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

Participants in the Children's Gasparilla Parade come in all sizes.

ANDY JONES/STAFF

A little one gets a grownup view of the Children's Gasparilla Parade atop some shoulders.

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Beads! Throw more beads! The crowd waits for some colorful projectiles from the parade participants.

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Beads! Throw more beads! The crowd waits for some colorful projectiles from the parade participants.

ANDY JONES/STAFf

Beads! Throw more beads! The crowd waits for some colorful projectiles from the parade participants.

ANDY JONES/STAFF

A curious little onlooker gets a heavy load of beads around her neck during the Children's Gasparilla Parade.

ANDY JONES/STAFF

A tiny pirate collects her booties as the procession continues along Bayshore Boulevard.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

There was no shortage of hands waving for beads during Saturday's Children's Gasparilla Parade.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

Smiling faces make the walk along Bayshore Boulevard from Bay to Bay to near Rome Avenue.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

The crowd watches the parade go by in anticipation of beads during Saturday's Gasparilla Children's Parade.

ANDY JONES/STAFF

Paradegoers wait for beads along Bayshore Boulevard during the Children's Gasparilla Parade.

ANDY JONES/STAFF

A little one adjusts on a grownup's shoulders for a bettere view of the parade.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

Eager youngsters await beads along Bayshore Boulevard during the Children's Gasparilla Parade.

PAUL LAMISON/STAFF

Stands upon strands of beads weigh down the necks of eager youngsters along the Children's Gasparilla Parade.

CLARISA GERLACH/STAFF

Hands wave for beads along Bayshore Boulevard during the Children's Gasparilla Parade on Saturday.

KAREN McALLISTER/STAFF

The Children's Gasparilla Parade along Bayshore Boulevard features floats, beads and more.

As always, the invasion began with a flotilla making its way to downtown Tampa. JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF
Parade goers try for beads as a float from the Krewe of Augustina. JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF
Pirates danced and tossed beads during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas.
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Out of beads, a pirate offers high-fives near Platt Street and Bayshore Boulevard during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
A happy parade goer gets not only a necklace of beads from a pirate, but a matching bracelet, as well. Photo by Mike Camunas.
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas.
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
A pirate passes out pink beads to throngs of happy women during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas.
Spectators in the stands jump to catch beads during the Gasparilla Parade on Saturday. Photo by Mike Camunas.
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
A couple of float riders wind up to toss beads into the crowd at Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
These ladies are all smiles after getting a good bounty of beads during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas.
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
http://twitter.com/ChristinaCNN/status/163988778413862912/photo/1 Photo by Mike Camunas
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
A father and son contemplate how to get more beads during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Captain Morgan fits right in at Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas.
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
A large crowd near Platt Street and Bayshore Boulevard is more than ready for more beads during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas.
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
A pirate wench passes out more beads during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas.
Tampa mayor Bob Buckhorn throws out beads during Saturday's Gasparilla parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
This little boy is rewarded with yet another necklace of beads. Photo by Mike Camunas.
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Tampa Bay Rays pitcher David Price adjusts his head camera and rides in a car with his French bulldog, Astro. Photo by Mike Camunas.
Tampa Bay Rays pitcher James Shields throws out foam baseballs during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Clydesdale horses bring by the Budweiser wagon. Photo by Mike Camunas.
Plant cheerleaders bring in the Class 8A state champ Panthers during Saturday's Gasparilla parade. Photo by Mike Camunas.
Plant coach Robert Weiner throws out beads along with his Class 8A state champ Panthers. Photo by Mike Camunas
Kathryn Dennis and David Ramsdell get ready to celebrate Ramsdell's 60th Gasparilla. Ramsdell has been attending the parade since he was five. "I remember when it was just a little parade (laughs)," Ramsdell said. Photo by Mike Camunas
A Florida State Trooper eggs on the crowd with a "Tampa Bay" chant. Photo by Mike Camunas.
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. Photo by Mike Camunas
Tampa had a big party along Bayshore during Saturday's Gasparilla Parade. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
A pirate wench takes a photo of Jose Gaspar ship invading Channelside and landing at the Tampa Bay Convention Center. Photo by Mike Camunas.
Channelside crowded with boats after Jose Gaspar's ship lands at the Tampa Bay Convention Center. Photo by Mike Camunas.
Parade goers eagerly await beads. Photo by Mike Camunas.
Vendors hock their wares on Bayshore Boulevard before the Gasparilla Parade on Saturday. Photo by Mike Camunas.
Hands wave for beads along Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade on Saturday. RICK MAYER/STAFF
One youngster checks out beads she received during the Gasparilla parade. RICK MAYER/STAFF
One boy tries to get the attention of some bead-throwers on the Les Belles Femmes float. RICK MAYER/STAFF
Pirates walking the parade rout get the attention of folks looking for beads. RICK MAYER/STAFF
A pirate toss beads to a young Gasparilla fan during Saturday's parade. RICK MAYER/STAFF
Tampa Bay Rays pitcher David Price was among the grand marshals of the parade, along with teammates Matt Joyce and James Shields. RICK MAYER/STAFF
One little girl sets up shop for the parade with a sign to get the attention of bead-throwers. RICK MAYER/STAFF
Some dancing tuba players with the Plant High School band perform during the Gasparilla parade. RICK MAYER/STAFF
ThunderBug, the Tampa Bay Lightning's mascot, tosses beads to the crowd during the Gasparilla parade. RICK MAYER/STAFF
Member of the state champion Plant High School football team participate in the Gasparilla parade. The state champion Armwood High team was also in the parade. RICK MAYER/STAFF
Plant High school quarterback James Few stands atop a float representing his team during the Gasparilla parade. Plant won the state championship in Class 8A this season. RICK MAYER/STAFF
The Plant High School marching band was among the musical units in the Gasparilla parade. RICK MAYER/STAFF
Some pirates prefer to walk the Gasparilla parade route. PUAL LAMISON/STAFF
A band makes its way down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
A pirate hands out beads during the Gasparilla parade. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
A band of pirates makes their way down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
Pirates make their way down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
Pirates make their way down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
A group of female pirates, or wenches, makes its way down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
The Gasparilla parade gets under way on Bayshore Boulevard. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
Floats make their way down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
Hands go up for beads as the Gasparilla parade goes by. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
Some have better seats that others at the Gasparilla parade. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
Revelers wait for the Gasparilla parade to get under way. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
Revelers wait for the Gasparilla parade floats. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
Pirates invade during Gasparilla. JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF
A float makes its way down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
Pirates invate during Gasparilla. JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF
Parade floats make their way down the route during Gasparilla. RICK MAYER/STAFF
Mayor Bob Buckhorn walks the Gasparilla parade route. RICK MAYER/STAFF
Parade floats make their way down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade. RICK MAYER/STAFF
A police vehicle travels down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade. RICK MAYER/STAFF
Hands go up for beads as the Gasparilla parade gets under way. RICK MAYER/STAFF
The Gasparilla parade gets under way in Tampa. RICK MAYER/STAFF
Clydesdales make their way down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade. RICHARD MAYER/STAFF
Floats make their way down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade. RICK MAYER/STAFF
A band travels down Bayshore Boulevard during the Gasparilla parade. RICK MAYER/STAFF
Matt Joyce, one of three grand marshals for the Gasparilla parade, throws out beads. Rick Mayer/Staff
Boats in the floatilla for Gasparilla make their way into downtown Tampa. DAVID KRAUT/STAFF
Gasparilla revelers arrived early for the parade. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
Gasparilla revelers make their way to the parade route. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
Parade attendees arrived early to get good spots along the route for Gasparilla. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
Parade attendees arrived early to get good spots along the route for Gasparilla. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
One Gasparilla reveler may have found the largest beads of all. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
Gasparilla attracs pirates off all kinds. JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF
Gasparilla attracts pirates off all kinds. JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF
Gasparilla attracts pirates off all kinds. JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF
Gasparilla attracts pirates off all kinds. JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF
Jose Gaspar's ship makes it's way into downtown Tampa. JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF
Jose Gaspar's ship makes it's way into downtown Tampa. JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF
Revelers began ligning up early for the Gasparilla parade. RICK MAYER/STAFF
Parade goers started lining up early for the good spots. RICK MAYER/STAFF
Gasparilla inspires all kinds of pirates. RICK MAYER/STAFF
Boats in the floatilla for Gasparilla make their way to downtown Tampa. WFLA
Boats in the floatilla for Gasparilla make their way to downtown Tampa. WFLA
Boats in the floatilla for Gasparilla make their way to downtown Tampa. WFLA
Boats in the floatilla for Gasparilla make their way to downtown Tampa. WFLA
Boats in the floatilla for Gasparilla make their way to downtown Tampa. WFLA
Boats in the floatilla for Gasparilla make their way to downtown Tampa. WFLA
Boats in the floatilla for Gasparilla make their way to downtown Tampa. WFLA
January 28, 2012 Tampa - Boats head out towards the bay for Saturday's Gasparilla Invasion. JASON BEHNKEN / STAFF
Tampa police hold a roll call at Bayshore Boulevard and Howard Avenue before starting patrols for Gasparilla. CHIP OSOWSKI/STAFF
Signs like this one around the Gasparilla event warn patrons about the city's zero tolerance policy. CHIP OSOWSKI/STAFF
As is tradition in the days before Gasparilla, pirates stormed City Hall, and told the mayor to surrender. JAY CONNER/STAFF
A sign of warning hangs outside the Mayor Bob Buckhorn's office today. JOSH POLTILOVE/STAFF
As is tradition in the days before Gasparilla, pirates stormed City Hall, and told the mayor to surrender. JOSH POLTILOVE/STAFF
As is tradition in the days before Gasparilla, pirates stormed City Hall, and told the mayor to surrender. JOSH POLTILOVE/STAFF
As is tradition in the days before Gasparilla, pirates stormed City Hall, and told the mayor to surrender. JOSH POLTILOVE/STAFF
As is tradition in the days before Gasparilla, pirates stormed City Hall, and told the mayor to surrender. JAY CONNER/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-- Robert Dominguez (at left) a performing artist in Tampa, makes balloon figures for kids before the start of the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whit the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-- Reilly Farmer, age 3, sported a hat and boa for the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whit the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-- In a new feature at the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza, Jose Gaspar's image was projected on the sails of the pirate ship as he told the crowd that he was ready to take over the city of Tampa. The event also featured a parade, and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12--Zachary Hanna, age 4, was at his pirate's best during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12--Arianna Cook, age 6, prepares to party during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12--It was all about beads during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12--Everybody wanted beads during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12--No one knew which direction beads would come from during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-Pirates were in control during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12--Pirates threw beads during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-- The crowd cried out for beads during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whit the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12--Pirates of all ages threw beads to the crowd during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12--Everybody wanted beads during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12--Everybody wanted beads during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12--People watch a fireworks display during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and the fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12--Nathanial Sanchez, age 3, was at his pirate's best during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whith the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-- Jackson Zill, age 18 months, took a breather crom collecting beads Saturday. A variety of floats rolled down the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza parade route on Bayshore Blvd. passing beads to the crowd. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whit the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-- (l to r) Dena Jones, daughters Genea Jones, 3, Makyla Jones, 5, and husband and dad Gerry Jones, check out their loot after collecting it from a variety of floats that rolled down the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza parade route on Bayshore Blvd. Saturday. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whit the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-- The crowd cried out for beads as a variety of floats rolled down the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza parade route on Bayshore Blvd. Saturday. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whit the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-- (l to r) Sam Johnson, 7, sister Amanda Johnson, 9, and their brother Mack Johnson, 11, wear special glasses as they watch a new feature, Jose Gaspar addressing the crowd, during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza Bayshore Blvd. Saturday. The event featured a parade, the Jose Gaspar event and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-- The crowd cried out for beads aspirates on a variety of floats threw them during the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza parade on Bayshore Blvd. Saturday. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whit the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
Hillsborough, Tampa, 1-20-12-- The crowd cried out for beads as a variety of floats rolled down the annual Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza parade route on Bayshore Blvd. Saturday. The event featured the parade, a Jose Gaspar event whit the pirate addressing the crowd after the parade and a fireworks display. ANDY JONES/STAFF ANDY JONES/STAFF
The Gasparilla Children's Extravaganza closed with a fireworks show over Hillsborough Bay. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
A fireworks display caps off the Gasparilla Children's Extravaganza, which featured the annual children's parade on Bayshore Boulevard. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
The Jose Gasparilla pirate ship appeared at the Gasparilla Children's Parade. DEBBIE SWARTZ/STAFF
Parade units prepare for the beginning of Saturday's Children's Gasparilla Parade. DEBBIE SWARTZ/STAFF
Children get ready for Saturday's Gasparilla Children's Parade. DEBBIE SWARTZ/STAFF
Participants in the Children's Gasparilla Parade come in all sizes. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
A little one gets a grownup view of the Children's Gasparilla Parade atop some shoulders. ANDY JONES/STAFF
Beads! Throw more beads! The crowd waits for some colorful projectiles from the parade participants. ANDY JONES/STAFF
Beads! Throw more beads! The crowd waits for some colorful projectiles from the parade participants. ANDY JONES/STAFF
Beads! Throw more beads! The crowd waits for some colorful projectiles from the parade participants. ANDY JONES/STAFf
A curious little onlooker gets a heavy load of beads around her neck during the Children's Gasparilla Parade. ANDY JONES/STAFF
A tiny pirate collects her booties as the procession continues along Bayshore Boulevard. ANDY JONES/STAFF
There was no shortage of hands waving for beads during Saturday's Children's Gasparilla Parade. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
Smiling faces make the walk along Bayshore Boulevard from Bay to Bay to near Rome Avenue. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
The crowd watches the parade go by in anticipation of beads during Saturday's Gasparilla Children's Parade. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
Paradegoers wait for beads along Bayshore Boulevard during the Children's Gasparilla Parade. ANDY JONES/STAFF
A little one adjusts on a grownup's shoulders for a bettere view of the parade. ANDY JONES/STAFF
Eager youngsters await beads along Bayshore Boulevard during the Children's Gasparilla Parade. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
Stands upon strands of beads weigh down the necks of eager youngsters along the Children's Gasparilla Parade. PAUL LAMISON/STAFF
Hands wave for beads along Bayshore Boulevard during the Children's Gasparilla Parade on Saturday. CLARISA GERLACH/STAFF
The Children's Gasparilla Parade along Bayshore Boulevard features floats, beads and more. KAREN McALLISTER/STAFF