TODAY: Pirates demanding Key to the City, it could get loud News General, News Mayor Office, News Special Events Coordination Pirates Demanding Key to the CityAs part of the[...]

As part of the lead-up to the 2026 Seminole Hard Rock Gasparilla Pirate Fest, members of Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla will arrive in downtown Tampa today and formally summon Mayor Jane Castor to negotiate the city's ceremonial surrender.

Pirates are expected to arrive by float, "raid" the mayor's office, then proceed to Lykes Gaslight Park, where a theatrical meeting will take place at noon. This event marks the official kickoff of Gasparilla festivities and precedes the annual Gasparilla Invasion and Parade of the Pirates planned for this Saturday, January 31.

NOISE ADVISORY:
Today's event will include theatrical noise props, including simulated cannon sounds. Media and nearby businesses should plan accordingly.

MEDIA ACCESS & COVERAGE:
Media are invited to attend and cover the event in person. Due to space limitations inside the Mayor's Office, media are asked to report to Lykes Gaslight Park to film the pirates and Mayor Castor as they walk across Kennedy Blvd to the park and speak before the crowd upon arrival.

The City of Tampa will livestream the Mayor's Raid in its entirety on the City of Tampa Facebook page beginning at noon.

MEDIA PARKING:
Media parking will be available on the north curb of Kennedy Boulevard, between Franklin Street and Tampa Street.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Jennifer Renspie, [email protected], 813-352-9115