VIVA LA FIESTA: SANTA BARBARA’S MOST JOYFUL WEEK OF THE YEAR
Each summer, Santa Barbara comes alive in the most vibrant of ways—flamenco fills the streets, mariachis strike up their guitars, and the city wraps itself in ribbons of tradition, celebration, and community spirit. Old Spanish Days Fiesta is one of Santa Barbara’s most beloved and enduring traditions, and it returns this week with its signature mix of pageantry, color, and joy.
Fiesta began in 1924 as a way to honor Santa Barbara’s rich Spanish and Mexican heritage. What started as a small community event has grown into a weeklong citywide celebration, filled with music, dance, food, and history. It’s the kind of tradition that makes you fall in love with Santa Barbara all over again—whether it’s your first Fiesta or your fiftieth.
This year’s celebration kicks off on Wednesday, July 30, and continues through Sunday, August 3, with events happening all across town. Here’s a glimpse of what’s ahead—full schedule available at sbfiesta.org.
Santa Barbara Fiesta and Old Spanish Days, 1951
Photo Credit: USC Libraries
Courthouse Fiesta Tours
Step back in time with a free, docent-led tour of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse—a true architectural jewel. From Wednesday to Sunday, hourly tours (10:30am to 3:30pm) offer a behind-the-scenes look at this Spanish-Moorish landmark, including the famous Mural Room.
El Mercado De La Guerra
By day, a lively open-air market. By night, a full-blown fiesta. Located across from City Hall, this bustling hub runs Wednesday through Saturday and features traditional food, handmade goods, and nonstop live entertainment. It’s the heart and soul of the week’s energy—don’t miss the tamales.
La Fiesta Pequeña
On Wednesday night, gather on the steps of the Old Mission Santa Barbara for La Fiesta Pequeña, an intimate evening of historical songs and dance under the stars. It’s a beautiful tribute to the spirit of the Californios and a magical way to welcome in the festivities.
DIGS! at the Santa Barbara Zoo
A favorite for locals, DIGS! (Celebración de los Dignatarios) is a lively Thursday night gathering that blends tropical cocktails, local cuisine, and dancing—all in the whimsical setting of the Santa Barbara Zoo. Proceeds benefit the Zoo and Old Spanish Days.
Las Noches de Ronda
From Thursday through Saturday, the Sunken Gardens at the Courthouse become the backdrop for Las Noches de Ronda, or "Nights of Gaiety." These free evening performances bring together the beauty of flamenco, Mexican folklórico, and Spanish guitar beneath the stars. It’s enchanting in every sense of the word.
El Desfile Histórico (Historical Parade)
On Friday at noon, witness one of the largest equestrian parades in the nation. Horses, carriages, historic reenactments, and colorful costumes parade down Cabrillo Boulevard, honoring Santa Barbara’s layered past. It’s a spectacle that’s equal parts history and celebration.
Flor y Canto
Held Friday evening in the Courthouse Gardens, this special hour features traditional 19th-century Spanish California music and dance, performed with authentic replica instruments. It’s a rare and moving cultural experience for history lovers.
Photo Credits: USC Libraries
Photo Credits: USC Libraries
Saturday’s Festivities
Saturday is bursting with family-friendly fun:
Children’s Parade down Cabrillo Blvd at 10am
Tarde de Ronda in the Sunken Gardens, a charming showcase of young dancers (1–4pm)
Fiesta Arts & Crafts Show along West Beach, where local artisans share their work (10am–6pm)
Sunday
The final day invites you to soak in the last of Fiesta’s magic. Browse the Fiesta Arts & Crafts Show, take a final Courthouse tour, and toast to a weekend well spent.
Whether you join for the food, the dancing, the history, or simply the sense of community, Fiesta is Santa Barbara at its most joyful and most alive. Put on your brightest colors, grab a confetti-filled egg (or two), and celebrate the traditions that continue to shape this coastal paradise.
Viva la Fiesta!
