TAMPA, Fla. — Many have cast their sails as pirates and are invading Tampa Bay by bringing treasure in the form of beads during Saturday's Gasparilla Pirate Fest.

This parade has been a tradition in the city for more than 100 years. It all started with one pirate in 1904, sailing across Tampa Bay.

And that is exactly what will happen on Saturday with hundreds of boats and pirates following behind.

Hundreds of thousands of people will line Bayshore Boulevard as thousands of "pirates" flood the street, throwing beads and riding on more than 140 floats.

That starts 2 p.m., after the boats dock at the Tampa Convention Center and take the key to the city from the mayor.

The grand marshal of the parade this year is celebrity Mario Lopez.

There will be live music all day with celebrations nonstop.

However, the message from law enforcement officers is to stay safe, if you see something say something, and of course, come prepared.

"Have a bit of plan, how are you going to reconnect with your people if you get separated? Maybe bring a backup battery to charge your phone. It's a long day so plan things out and stick together," shared Tampa Police Chief Brian Dugan.

Another tip from Dugan, if anyone is driving to the parade; take a picture of the street signs near your vehicle so you remember where you parked.

If you are using a ride-sharing app, you will have to walk away from the parade route to catch the ride- the app will tell you where to go.

And if you have non-emergency questions while you are out there, call 1-844-TAMPA4U (826-7248) for some help.