The pirates lead the flotilla and are the big draw of the parade partly because they started it and pay for much of the cost. When they dock at 1 p.m., there usually is a little skit that is played out on a plank near the Tampa Convention Center. The pirates disembark and snatch the keys of the city from the mayor. The pirates wave their swords. Like the Super Bowl, corporate tents have begun to pop up along the parade route.
Some bleacher seating is available, but most people stand.
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