Old Spanish Day’s 100th Anniversary

Santa Barbara’s rich heritage comes alive during the first week in August with the music, dance, and pageantry of Old Spanish Days Fiesta, the granddaddy of city celebrations. Santa Barbara’s Old Spanish Days, called “Fiesta” by locals, is an annual, city-wide festival that began in 1924! This week-long celebration honors the city’s Spanish founders and heritage and the Spanish, Mexican, and North American pioneers who developed the city.

July 31, 2024 to August 4, 2024

The 5-day party opens with La Fiesta Pequeña — the little festival — on the steps of the Old Mission Santa Barbara, with traditional flamenco and folkloric dance performances.  

La Fiesta Pequeña – Wednesday @ Old Mission | 8 pm-10 pm
Enjoy traditional songs and dance from Californios Spirit to kick off the celebrations

El Mercado De La Guerra – Wednesday – Saturday @ City Hall | 11 am-10 pm
Walk through a colorful Mexican market to eat delicious Mexican and Spanish foods, shop, and listen to live entertainment

Noches De Ronda – Thursday – Saturday @ SB Courthouse | 8 pm-10 pm
“Nights of Gaiety” is a spectacular night of Mexican and Spanish song and dance performances

The Historical Parade – Saturday @ Along Cabrillo Blvd | 12pm
El Desfile Histórico is one of the biggest equestrian parades in the country and features floats, traditional decorations, and lots of beautiful horses

PROJECT FIESTA