Frequently Asked Questions
Below is a list of our Frequently Asked Questions.
What is Gasparilla Music Festival?
The Gasparilla Music Festival (“GMF”) is a community-funded festival celebrating the arts in Tampa Bay by showcasing diverse local acts alongside nationally recognized headliners. GMF is organized by the Gasparilla Music Foundation, a Florida 501(c)3 non-profit corporation. Our mission is to create a sustainable community event for the Tampa Bay area while promoting arts education and benefiting local organizations and businesses. Find out more about some of our community outreach HERE. For a look at some of the local sights, sounds and flavors of our festival can be found HERE.
When and where?
February 16-18, 2024!
Gates:
Saturday – 1:00pm
Sunday – 1:00pm
Location: Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Downtown Tampa
600 N Ashley Drive
Tampa, Florida 33602
Are there additional stages outside of Curtis Hixon in 2023?
Yes there will be performances happening all weekend at several other stages including the Ferman Riverwalk Stage at the Straz Center, the Sail Pavilion Stage at the Tampa Convention Center, and the Sparkman Wharf Stage. The Ferman Riverwalk Stage at the Straz Center requires a festival ticket. The Sparkman Wharf Stage and the Sail Pavilion Stage are FREE and open to the public and do not require a festival ticket.
I have purchased a ticket. Where can I exchange it for a festival wristband?
Wristbands are required for entry into Curtis Hixon Park and the Straz Riverwalk Stage. You can only receive your wristband at the Main Entrance to the festival located at Curtis Hixon Park by the Glazer Children’s Museum.
What days and times do the bands perform?
The full lineup and performance schedule can be found here
All Bands, Dates and Times are Subject to Change or Cancellation
What will be different at GMF 2023?
Due to building issues in Kiley Gardens Park, there will be no stages or activities in this park for 2023. GMF 2023 will feature its main stage in Curtis Hixon and will have additional stage(s) nearby in downtown Tampa. Due to the status of Kiley Gardens Park, there will not be a Kids Fest at GMF 2023. Kids 12 and under are still welcome and receive FREE admission into the festival.
When is GMF 2024?
February 16-18
How can I volunteer to help out at GMF?
The Gasparilla Music Festival is completely grassroots and volunteer run. There are many options available for volunteers, and you will be joining a fun and energetic team. Please check here for volunteer opportunities for GMF!
How can I become a sponsor?
GMF is a not-profit organization that hosts a community funded music festival sponsored by individuals and corporate sponsors. Your support is greatly appreciated and there are several levels of opportunities designed to fit your company’s needs and budget. Please email GMF at sponsors@gasparillamusic.com to learn how you can become a part of history!
How can I submit my band to play at GMF 2023?
Currently the 2023 lineup is full.
What Bands / Artists are playing at the 2023 Gasparilla Music Festival?
Lineup information can be found here
All Bands, Dates and Times are Subject to Change or Cancellation
When will tickets for the 2023 GMF go on sale?
How much do tickets cost?
General Admission
SAT GA – $50
SUN GA – $50
2 DAY GA – $80
VIP
SAT VIP – $125
SUN VIP – $125
2 DAY VIP – $200
plus applicable taxes and fees
All artists and times subject to change. Rain or Shine. No Refunds
- Access to VIP tent and VIP bar
- Access to front of stage viewing at Curtis Hixon
- Access to air-conditioned restrooms
- Special VIP Entrance into the Festival
- VIP Tickets no longer include 3 FREE Drinks
Each multiple day ticket is for 1 person.
All ticket holders will be issued a wristband on Day One of event. If wristband is removed, you will not be issued a replacement. Re-entry will be at full price.
Re-entry is allowed once you received your wristband.
Ticket and entry are voided if wristband is removed.
Rain or Shine.
No Refunds.
All artists and times subject to change or cancellation.
How can I purchase tickets?
Tickets are available online HERE.
Having trouble receiving your tickets? Be sure to check your e-mail spam folder, or reach out to our Ticket provider, , for assistance
What is included in the VIP Experience?
- VIP premium viewing at Curtis Hixon
- Dedicated VIP bar & tent at main stage
- Exclusive, air-conditioned restroom trailers
- Special VIP entrance into the festival for quick entry
- NOTE: FREE DRINK TOKENS are no longer included. The price of the tickets was reduced in 2022 to reflect that change.
What type of food will be at 2023 GMF?
GMF features local restaurants and the full selection can be found here.
Is GMF cash-less?
Yes. GMF accepts credit cards and Apple Pay / Google Pay.
Is GMF “kid-friendly”?
Children 12 and under get in FREE to GMF!
While GMF does allow children, there are adult beverages being served and from mid afternoon to evening, it is not recommended for young children. There also may be some music with profanities during those times.
How do I get to the Gasparilla Music Festival?
Check out our Getting Here page for information.
Is the festival accessible for those with disabilities?
Yes. The adjacent Poe Garage should have sufficient parking options. There is a viewing deck for those with disabilities located next to the main stage soundboard in Curtis Hixon Park. Please contact us info@gasparillamusic.com for assistance
Where can I stay?
Check out our Accommodations page for information
Will there be ATMs at the festival?
No and cash cannot be used inside the festival.
Where do I park?
Hourly parking is available in the Poe Garage, Curtis Hixon Garage and Fort Brooke Garage. Please see our Parking and Transportation page for more information.
Where do I enter?
General Admission Gate 1 (Main Entrance)
On the Ashley St side of Curtis Hixon Park, by the Glazer Childrens Museum.
General Admission Gate 2
On the Riverwalk (west side) of Curtis Hixon Park. This gate is for re-entry only.
VIP Ticket Holder Entrance
Northeast side of Curtis Hixon Park across from the kid’s play area.
Sponsor/Higher Ground Ticket Holder Entrance
North side of Curtis Hixon, between the Children’s Museum and the Museum of Art.
Can I purchase GMF tickets at the event?
Yes if there are still tickets available! There will be a box office at Curtis Hixon along Ashley Drive on Saturday and Sunday and it will open at 1pm. We will accept credit card only.
What can I bring?
GMF approved items include:
- Blanket or ground tarp (no larger than 6’x8′)
- Low-backed chairs (under 30″ in height, permitted east of the middle cross walk)
- Small bags and backpacks (smaller than 17″x12″x10″, subject to search)
- Water (factory sealed, up to 1 liter)
- Wheelchairs and medical scooters
- Strollers for children
- Hand-held still cameras
OK, so what items are NOT permitted?
Please leave the following items at home:
- Alcohol (we will provide on-site) and other beverages (except sealed water up to 1 liter or an empty reusable, non-glass container)
- Glass containers
- Coolers and thermoses
- Food
- Umbrellas and tents (anything that can obstruct the view of others)
- Large chairs
- Video and audio recording equipment
- Pets
- Wagons, skateboards and Segways
- Weapons, illicit drugs and other contraband
- Balls, frisbees, missiles, and any other types of throwing objects or projectiles
Are there any additional policies?
No unauthorized vending. GMF reserves the right to deny entry or remove from the festival anyone in violation of these policies or for any reason.
Can I bring my pet?
No. We love our furry friends, but we request that you please leave pets at home.
Do you accommodate bike riders?
We sure do! We offer Bike Valet at Kiley Gardens along Ashley Drive. Walk your bike up the ramp from the north end of the Malio’s valet and an attendant will be there to check your bike in. Please check our Parking and Transportation page for more information!
Is photographic or recording equipment permitted at the festival?
Hand-held still cameras are permitted. Tripods are not advisable. Audio and video recording devices are NOT permitted.
How can I gain credentials for a press pass?
Please send your contact information to pr@gasparillamusic.com along with link to your publication and related media.
