Gasparilla Pirate Fest 2009 in Tampa, Florida by David Lawrence

Gasparilla Pirate Fest is an annual celebration held in the streets and waterways of Tampa, Florida. The history and name traces back to the legends about the antics of a pirate called Jose Gaspar. Gaspar reputedly patrolled the waters of West Florida during the late 18th century. The annual festivities begin when the fully rigged pirate ship sails into the heart of Tampa. With flags flying and cannons booming the vessel makes its way through Hillsborough Bay and is joined by hundreds of pleasure craft and vessels of all shapes and sizes. The pirates land at the convention center in downtown Tampa. The mayor of Tampa then lends the key of the city to the pirate captain.

A parade then follows down Bayshore Boulevard. The Krewes throw beads, coins and other items while shooting blank pistols from floats during the parade. The annual event is attended by over 400,000 people and is often been referred to as the Mardi Gras of Tampa.

Hundreds of boats in motion add to the fun of this panorama made from 90 photographs captured over several minutes of time. You will find some boats and and people appearing more than once and a few half boats.