Colors of Tampa - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Tampa is the actively developing modern city with an interesting history, as well as lots of original features and legends. Several beautiful myths are associated with name of the city; one of which tells that it has inherited the name from an ancient settlement. Several centuries ago, the territory of the modern city has been inhabited by aboriginal tribes; in their language ‘Tampa’ meant ‘Fire sticks.’ Contemporaries believe that city owes such an unusual name because of its climatic conditions. In summer, locals and visitors can often see big lightning in the sky; it has been a distinctive feature of the region from ancient times. According to another version, the name to the city was given in the late 17th century by Spaniards.

The Golden Age of city’s industry was during 19-20th centuries; at that time numerous cigar factories began to open up in Tampa. It is worth noting that nowadays Tampa continues to be associated with high-end tobacco products that many tourists buy as souvenirs. In the late 19th century a huge number of workers from Latin American countries and Cuba arrived to Tampa; the city owes its Cigar Capital of the World status mainly because of them.

Each year the city hosts many interesting events and festivals. The Gasparilla festival is famous far beyond the country. The festival was named in honor of the legendary pirate Jose Gaspar, who made his raids from the local coast in the 18th century. The most significant event of the festival is a theatrical performance depicting an invasion of pirates to the city. After that fabulous event, solemn parades and a variety of recreational activities are held on city streets. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Festival is held in the second half of January; it is usually visited by no less than 400 thousand visitors. Year-round Tampa welcomes a huge number of tourists from around the world. From their first days in the city travelers admit the pleasant atmosphere of cordiality and hospitality. The modern city with a rich history and cultural heritage never fails to enchant its guests.