In a thrilling announcement for Tampa Bay, Pat Maroon, the celebrated former Tampa Bay Lightning player and three-time Stanley Cup champion, has been named the grand marshal for the 2026 Seminole Hard Rock Gasparilla Pirate Fest. The event is set to bring a wave of excitement to the city on Saturday, January 31.

Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla, in collaboration with EventFest, also revealed that Tampa police officers Jason Sikoski and Kaleb Girard have been designated as this year’s honorary community heroes. Their commendable service to the community will be celebrated alongside the vibrant festivities.

Captain Drew Pittman of Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Pat Maroon as our Grand Marshal and to honor Officers Jason Sikoski and Kaleb Girard as true community heroes.”

The festival promises a spectacular showcase with its traditional Gasparilla invasion and pirate parade. Maroon and the honored officers will take the lead in a grand procession featuring over 120 units. This includes an impressive lineup of 109 parade floats, 68 krewes, and six marching bands, alongside dignitaries and the famous Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla pirates, all parading down the scenic 4.5-mile route along Bayshore Boulevard at approximately 2 p.m.

Maroon and officers Sikoski and Girard will lead more than 120 units, including 109 parade floats, 68 krewes, six marching bands, dignitaries, and the Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla pirates down a 4.5-mile parade route along Bayshore Boulevard around 2 p.m.

“Seminole Hard Rock Tampa is proud to continue our longstanding partnership with EventFest and Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla to bring Tampa’s signature pirate celebration to life each year,” said Joseph Wagner, Vice President and Assistant General Manager of Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa. “Gasparilla is more than a parade. It is a tradition that unites our community, honors local heroes, and showcases the spirit of Tampa Bay. We are honored to once again be part of an event that celebrates everything that makes this city so special.”

Officer Sikoski joined the department in 2022 and has earned two life-saving awards for heroic rescues.

Officer Girard, who has been with TPD since 2024, was recognized with a life-saving award after rescuing an elderly man from a rooftop in 2025.