It’s pirate invasion season

It’s almost time for the annual Gasparilla Pirate Fest, celebrating the legend of mythical Spanish pirate José Gasparilla.

The free pirate invasion sets sail from the south end of Hillsborough Bay at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 27, followed by the Parade of the Pirates, which starts at 2 p.m. along Bayshore Boulevard in South Tampa.

Wear comfortable walking shoes, pack plenty of water and park a good distance away from the parade route to get out easily: Traffic exiting the parade can be quite a challenge, since the event draws an estimated 300,000 people per year.

– Sarah Bounaim, B2 Communications