CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF OLD SPANISH DAYS FIESTA
Celebrating its landmark 100th anniversary, Old Spanish Days in Santa Barbara is a cherished tradition that invites visitors and locals to immerse themselves in the city's rich cultural heritage through a five-day festival of history, music, dance, and authentic cuisine from July 31 to August 4. Explore some of this weekend’s upcoming events below!
LA FIESTA PEQUEÑA
July 31, 8pm to 10pm
This official kickoff for Old Spanish Days provides a stunning sunset view behind the “Queen of the Missions” while showcasing a vibrant, historical program. This special event, whose name translates to “The Small Party” features traditional Californios Spirit music and dance.
COURTHOUSE FIESTA TOURS
July 31- August 4
Experience the historic Santa Barbara Courthouse with free, docent-led tours. Tours run daily from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM and are an hour long.
EL MERCADO DE LA GUERRA
July 31- August 3
El Mercado de la Guerra, located across from City Hall, brings the essence of a lively Mexican market to Old Spanish Days. From 11 AM to 10 PM, you can indulge in delicious Spanish and Mexican-American foods, explore unique crafts and souvenirs, and enjoy vibrant live entertainment.
CELEBRACIÓN DE LOS DIGNATARIOS: DIGS!
August 1, 5pm to 10pm
This ultimate party experience features delicious food from local restaurants, margaritas, live music, and dancing. Held on the Zoo’s hilltop with stunning views, tickets are $150 in advance or $175 on the day of the event and include unlimited food and drinks.
NOCHES DE RONDA
August 1-3, 8pm to 11pm
Experience a vibrant celebration in the beautiful Sunken Gardens of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, where over 200 performers showcase an exciting array of dances and songs, including flamenco and Mexican folklorico.
EL DESFILE HISTÓRICO
August 2, 12pm to 2pm
“The Historic Parade” showcases floats highlighting pivotal moments in California and Santa Barbara’s history, with local organizations and service clubs bringing historical scenes to life. The route begins at the west end of Cabrillo Boulevard, travels east along the beach to Calle Cesar Chavez, and then loops back down Cabrillo.
FLOR Y CANTO
August 2, 7pm to 8pm
Travel back to 19th-century Spanish California with live performances of traditional songs and dances in authentic costumes. Enjoy historical narration and the sounds of replica acoustic instruments for a rich cultural immersion.
FIESTA STOCK HORSE SHOW & RODEO
August 2- 3, 7pm and August 4, 1pm
Join the vibrant Children's Parade, where participants don traditional costumes and march along Cabrillo Boulevard from Garden Street to Calle Puerto Vallarta. Organized by the Parks and Recreation Department, this lively event brings together over 25,000 children and families for a festive community experience.
EL DESFILE DE LOS NIÑOS
August 3, 10am to 11am
Participants of this “Children’s Parade” don traditional costumes and march along Cabrillo Boulevard from Garden Street to Calle Puerto Vallarta. Organized by the Parks and Recreation Department, this lively event brings together over 25,000 children and families for a festive community experience.
FIESTA ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW
August 3- 4
Explore the Fiesta Arts and Crafts Show along Cabrillo Boulevard, west of Stearns Wharf. Discover handmade treasures crafted by local artisans while enjoying a stunning beachfront view.
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