ODCA and Gasparilla
Gasparilla History
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Each year, Tampa Bay plays host to a historic pirate invasion! The Gasparilla Pirate Festival begins with a fully-rigged pirate ship named the Jose Gasparilla sailing across Hillsborough Bay. During the voyage, the ship is confronted with a multitude of private vessels carrying brave Tampa citizens, all determined to uphold the city’s honor. Upon meeting the impressive Jose Gasparilla, the citizens vow loyalty to the pirates. They steer their boats on a new course joining the pirates to form an impressive fleet that will go on to invade the Seddon Channel. Facing cannon fire and legendary pirates, the Mayor will be forced to surrender the Key to the defenseless city once the salty Gasparilla Krewe storms the Tampa Convention Center. To celebrate this monumental conquest, a Parade of Pirates ensues down Bayshore Boulevard where crowds in the hundreds of thousands gather to witness the third largest parade in the United States. Beads and doubloons are thrown to cheering citizens who are eager to get their hands on some of the fabled booty!
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Our Gasparilla Krewe
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Our Marcelline Mermaids can be found on the stunning float belonging to Ye Westchase Krewe of Freebooters during parade season. Not only does the Krewe annually ride in the Gasparilla Parade of Pirates, but also participates in the Gasparilla Children’s Day Parade, the Sant’ Yago Night Parade, and the Rough Riders St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
In the 16th century, when piracy was prevalent on the high seas, the Dutch name vrijbuiter came to denote a pirate. Vrijbuit itself consists of two parts: vrij ("free") and buit ("booty"). This term eventually evolved among English speakers into the word Freebooter. In modern times, the word implies a pirate or lawless adventurer. The Krewe’s name pays homage to this history! Our Marcelline Mermaids also serve as community ambassadors for Ye Krewe of the Freebooters during “off-season”. The Krewe prides itself on serving as a platform for charity and leadership within the community. The mermaids donate time to organizing fundraisers that benefit Tampa, orchestrate social activities, host meet-and-greets, sign autographs, and make appearances at children’s hospitals and animal shelters to spread mermaid magic! |
Meet the Marcelline Mermaids
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Heather
Dr. Heather Blackall is the reigning International Conservation Mermaid, and the director of the Marcelline Mermaids, and is responsible for training the team. In conservation circles, she is known as the Shark Week Mermaid! She holds a PhD in biochemistry, and a M.S. in veterinary medicine. She is our lead scientist and co-authors our Swimming Through STEM with Sharks curricula!
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Avril |
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Becca |
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Tara
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Caitlyn
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