Three Things Your Teacher Never Told You About Gasparilla 2015

What Wikipedia

Can't

Tell You About

Gasparilla

From my high school days, I recall parking in outskirt communities and walking into the parade atmosphere.  If you do not live in the area, consider splitting a walkable hotel with friends. Gasparilla fun can be safe and arrest free. Be sure to be prepared to get to and from the festivities safely. 

Gasparilla 2015 Trip Planner

Traffic is horrible so get creative! Think chartered helicopter, designated driver horse and carriage, designated driver motor boat, SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) , kayak, designated driver bicycle built-for-two, etc.  But whatever your transport, be good to yourself and others, by practicing safe choices.

First Tip

If walking is not an option, be sure to plan your safe ride in advance. Cabs will undoubtedly abound, but will require the foresight and restraint by you (and your pals) to set aside the cash to get from Point A to Point B. Local taxi phone numbers include:

Suburban Taxi (727) 260 8294, 

Go Taxi Florida (727) 386-6787, 

Metro Taxi (727) 412-2101, 

Yellow Cab (813) 253-0121, 

Cab Plus (813) 288-8888, and 

United Cab (813) 251-5555.

Second Tip

Uber and Lyft are convenient ride-sharing services that will send a driver to pick you up by using the location of your cell phone. Simply download the apps and sign up ahead. Conveniently, you pay with whatever card you register with when signing up, tipping is included in the fare, and both companies often offer some sort of credit for first time users. Be aware that “prime time” or “surge pricing” may apply this weekend, which could mean that ordinary fares may increase significantly.

Zingo is another option. Call 888-ZINGO-11, and your driver will arrive on a foldable motorbike. He or she will then fold up their bike, place it in your trunk, drive you home in your own vehicle, and take off on the motorbike upon your safe return. 

Third Tip

In addition, the Gasparilla 2015 Trolleys, buses (day passes around $4) and streetcars will be running and are most affordable. For more information on pricing and schedules, visit: 

http://www.gohart.blogspot.com/2015/01/set-sail-to-gasparilla-with-hart-and.html?m=1 

Again, if none of the above options strikes your fancy, get creative! Think chartered helicopter, designated driver horse-carriage, designated driver motor boat, SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) , kayak, designated driver bicycle built-for-two, etc.  But whatever your transport, be good to yourself and others, by practicing safe choices.

For general information, visit the Official Gasparilla 2015 Website: http://gasparillapiratefest.com/faq.shtml 

Gasparilla 2011

The annual Gasparilla Pirate Festival for 2011 is quickly arriving. Those attending, especially those from out of town, should be aware of the Tampa Police Department’s “Zero Tolerance Policy” which was started in 2010.

At the 2010 Gasparilla Pirate Fest, police arrested more than 400 persons. This is more than triple the number of arrests made in 2009. A majority of the arrests were for Open Container, however, other charges included Minor in Possession of Alcohol, Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer, Battery On A Police Horse, Fake Identification, Possession Of Marijuana, Cannabis, and DUI.

The Tampa Police Department’s Gasparilla Zero Tolerance Policy (1/26/2010) states:
· Drinkers must be 21 or older to consume alcohol;
· Open containers only permitted in designated areas;
· Alcohol may not be consumed from kegs or large vessels;
· Must purchase alcohol from vendors;
· Only cans or plastic bottles permitted (no glass or Styrofoam cups or containers);
· No Fighting;
· No property damage;
· No Trespassing;
· No nudity or flashing for beads;
· No public intoxication;
· No driving under the influence;
· No motorized vehicles or bicycles;
· No weapons; and
· No illegal drugs.

Prohibited items (unless licensed, permitted and identified by Event Staff):
· No coolers (unless carrying formula for infants or medicine);
· No alcohol;
· Advertising/selling of any product or service;
· Glass containers of any sort (City Ordinance);
· Tents; and
· Fence, stakes or rope (used by spectators to reserve space for parade viewing).

Tampa Police Officers have made zero tolerance presentations to nearly 15,000 people in the community, most of them being high school students. Nearly 1,500 radio public service announcements on eight Clear Channel stations were made. Nine digital billboards will publicize the “Zero Tolerance Policy”. Additionally, citizens can text ''pirate'' to 333222 to review the “Zero Tolerance Policy.”

If, however, you should find yourself among those arrested at Gasparilla, Attorney Michael P. Maddux, is available to assist you. Contact our office Toll Free at (888) 703-2253 or locally at (813) 253-3363.