Time was when Gasparilla was a day off for Hillsborough County employees and a weekday, Tampa-centric parade. It was a demographically-challenged event known for its overindulgences.
Now it’s the third largest parade in the country. Moreover, it’s also a “season,” according to Visit Tampa Bay, one that carries a $1.7 million marketing campaign to lure visitors from out of town, out of state and even out of the country. It’s a season that lasts two months and is dotted with community and cultural events around town. The estimated economic impact exceeds $20 million.
Gasparilla has certainly evolved–and that includes serious attention to policing in the last few years. Krewes are diverse in all the ways diversity allows.
But nothing, frankly, has been a more notable upgrade than the Children’s Parade.
It’s no longer a wholesome–but token–sop to the sober. It’s no longer just a nice little parade with a Preschooler’s Stroll and a Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Rodeo. Now it’s a nice big, family-friendly parade that also attracts up to 200,000 spectators, 100 floats, 50 participating krewes–plus marching bands, dance squads, an air show and a “Piratechnic” extravaganza. No need for a “safe house” or alcohol zoning.
But the best part is this: It looks like Tampa. Black and white and brown. Parents and their kids. Enjoying the day. Catching beads without an agenda. Celebrating where we are and who we are.