TAMPA -- It's one of the biggest single-parade events in the country, and arrests are only in the dozens.
More than 30 law enforcement and first responder agencies are patrolling streets, water and skies during Saturday's Gasparilla Pirate Fest invasion and parade.
Crowd estimates range from 300 to 350-thousand. Police say their biggest concerns include making sure no one is driving or boating under the influence. They'll be assisted on the water by the Coast Guard, FWC and marine units.
Tampa Fire Rescue will be watching for illegal parties. Events require a permit if they're over a certain size, are fenced off and charge admission. There are also other requirements.
Parking will be at a premium and those who drive are being told to take a picture of their parking space. HART is running special free buses to connect parking areas in Ybor City to the parade, and the streetcar will be operating well into the night. Several HART buses will be running their regular routes into downtown, with some detours.
Photo: Canva