TAMPA, Fla. — Preparations got underway for a Krewe about to join in on the biggest pirate party in Tampa Bay.

The Gasparilla Parade of Pirates kicks off on Saturday, Jan. 28.

“We are putting some beads on the float,” said James Raulerson, a gypsy with the Krewe of Zingaro.

The Tampa Bay native knows these plastic trinkets will be vied for like real, precious jewels.

“Everybody wants beads,” said Raulerson, smiling. He and his Krewe are ready.

They ride on a mostly purple float. They call her ‘Barney.’

“It’s our gypsy wagon, an old school bus,” Raulerson said.

Restrooms are a must for a float crawling down the 4.5 mile parade route and so is room to throw beads, though most of his crew walks.

And of course, there’s a cabinet to store adult beverages.

“And here,” Raulerson said, pointing to a cooler sitting just below three taps, “We have a keg, which is nice.”

With the float loaded, Raulerson checks for safety and design.

Raulerson noted any ripping fringe or missing lights. The float will get all its superficial design repairs once it’s off the highway and into the staging area. The Krewe will be closer to the end of the parade in spot #111.

The floats, dignitaries, community leaders, dancers, bands and community organizations will be stretched down Bayshore Boulevard starting at Bay-to-Bay Boulevard, lined up stretching toward Gandy Boulevard.

Raulerson devotes time and energy to the group’s charities throughout the year, and Gasparilla is a chance to not only celebrate, but also bring a lot of cheering joy for a tiny, inexpensive souvenir.

“You’re giving beads to people, but they’re so happy. It’s great you’re bringing happiness to people. You never know,” Raulerson said about the people they’re throwing beads to. “That person might be having a horrible week at work or something, and they come out to Gasparilla and get to have fun. It might just change your whole attitude. So that’s the fun part.”

The Krewe is about 50 to 60 gypsies strong.