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Where there is a sea there are pirates. It just so happens the pirates invading the city of Treasure Island will be the University of Central Florida Knights and the University of Florida Gators football players, coaches and college football fans. ESPN’s Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl Beach Invasion will invade Treasure Island Beach on Dec. 21 from 1:30 to 5 p.m. The beach invasion will take place behind Gulf Front Park, 10400 Gulf Blvd.
“The beach event will also include a series of competitions between the football players of both college teams,” Justin Tramble Assistant Parks and Recreation Director said.
The Gasparilla-themed invasion will also have a variety of games and activities on-site along with several food vendors for everyone to enjoy.
“The event has been well-received by the residents, businesses and visitors and we look forward to continuing with the growth, especially with the newly incorporated parade down 107th,” Tramble said.
With its partnership with ESPN Events, the city will get national recognition and exposure. Beauty shots of the beach and the city’s logo may be seen on ESPN during the game’s broadcast on Dec. 23 from Raymond James Stadium.
“The city of Treasure Island and ESPN Events has a strong relationship that has benefited the community,” Tramble said. “This year, ESPN Events is looking to continue the strong partnership by becoming more involved with the hotel community.”
With the Gasparilla Bowl game being sold out, there is expected to be a pretty large crowd for the beach invasion which means parking lots could fill up quickly. To find a list of parking lots around the city of Treasure Island, visit mytreasureisland.com/parking.
More information about the Gasparilla Bowl and the beach invasion can be found at mytreasureisland.com/parksandrec or gasparillabowl.com.