TAMPA
They have enough beads to outfit an entire flotilla of pirates. They started their tradition in 2008 and have been hooked ever since. And they plan their vacation around the annual Gasparilla festivities.
We asked TBO.com users to show their pirate spirit by posting their photos to our "Most Spirited Gasparilla Pirate" photo contest. We received 26 submissions and more than 500 votes. Our winners used a little enthusiasm and a lot of swag to earn a spot in our TBO.com tent for Saturday's Gasparilla parade.
Patricia Vargas, of Tampa, submitted the winning photo, showing her and her friends all decked out in pirate gear and more than ready for an invasion.
"This was our first Gasparilla we attended in 2008," Vargas, a Chicago native, wrote in her submission. "We never miss any of the Gasparilla events now as we plan for them making sure we put in our vacation time early so we can attend!! All the activities are such fun times, and what a boost for the city of Tampa!!"
The picture shows Vargas and her husband Joseph, along with his sisters Nancy Matthews and Martha Cihak. Patricia Vargas said she attended Gasparilla invasions prior to 2008, but this group has made it an annual tradition since.
What draws them to Gasparilla?
"The ambience," she said. "We love the boat invasion and then we go to the parade.
"The crowds, people watching. I would never miss it."
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement
Advertisement