Tag Archives: Gasparilla Pirate Fest

This Saturday, Tampa Bay celebrates the 2014 Gasparilla Pirate Fest. This all day celebration welcomes the public to a spectacular parade and festival inspired by Jose Gaspar. This highly anticipated festival accommodates over 300,000 people each year, resulting in a multitude of elated crowds and overly enthusiastic guests. Reports from earlier Gasparilla Parades recount numerous arrests for open container violations, and various citations for civil infractions. Arrests for alcohol related criminal offenses are also very prevalent, particularly in Disorderly Conduct, DUI, Boating, Under the Influence, and Underage Drinking.

Amid and following the Gasparilla events, it is crucial to practice safety and avoid a potential arrest. Be prepared and make the necessary arrangements ahead of time to get home safely.  Be sure to protect the safety of others, and follow the following guidelines provided by the City of Tampa.

The City of Tampa recommends you:

• Plan your day in Advance – Save time by planning where you will park and the route you plan to take.

• Pick a meeting place – Select a spot where others in your party will know to return in the event you get separated.

• Know the “Wet Zones” – The parade route allows participants to drink alcohol openly, but only from vendors selling along the route. No coolers, kegs or open containers are allowed elsewhere on the streets; and absolutely no glass containers.

It is important to quickly consult a Criminal Attorney in the event you are arrested during the Gasparilla parade. A Criminal Attorney can advise you in regards to your rights, and what to do should an arrest take place. Call Blick Law Firm right away at (888) 973-2776 to schedule an appointment for a free 15 minute consultation with attorney Michael Blickensderfer. Think quick, call Blick!