See all Things to do in Tampa Tampa for: Adventure, Food And Dining, Art And Culture, Nightlife, Spa, History, First Timers, Family, Romance, Shopping Gasparilla Pirate Festival About Gasparilla Pirate Festival, [20] is an annual event consisting of several parades, live entertainment, and fireworks. The event is also known as the Mardi Gras of Tampa, and normally takes place on the last two Saturdays in January. Add to Wish List