It's the week Santa Barbarans count down to all year long! From colorful cascarones and mariachi music to horses, dancing and delicious Fiesta food, there's truly nothing like Old Spanish Days. Whether you're a longtime local or experiencing Fiesta for the first time, this week is all about celebrating the history, culture and community that make Santa Barbara so special.
Some of our personal favorite traditions? Kicking off the festivities at La Fiesta Pequeña as the sun sets behind the Mission and grabbing a spot along Cabrillo Boulevard for the Historical Parade. We've rounded up some of the can't-miss Fiesta events below to help you plan your week - ¡Viva la Fiesta!
Fiesta in Montecito
Thursday, July 30 from 4:30 - 6:30pm | Coast Village Road
Kick off Fiesta a little early with the inaugural Fiesta in Montecito celebration! Enjoy live mariachis, vibrant flamenco and folklórico performances, music, and plenty of Fiesta spirit as Coast Village Road comes alive. Best of all, it's completely free to attend!
El Mercado de la Guerra
Wednesday, August 5 through Saturday, August 8 from 11a - 10p | De La Guerra Plaza
The heart of Fiesta is always buzzing at El Mercado de la Guerra! Grab a plate of your favorite Fiesta foods, browse colorful artisan booths and enjoy live music and performances throughout the day. It's one of the best places to soak up the sights, sounds and flavors of Fiesta.
La Fiesta Pequeña
Wednesday, August 5 from 8p - 10p | Santa Barbara Mission & Rose Garden
There's no better way to kick off Fiesta week than La Fiesta Pequeña at the Santa Barbara Mission. As the sun sets, enjoy an evening of traditional music, dance and Santa Barbara history in one of the city's most iconic settings.
Our tips: blankets and chairs may be placed beginning at 6:00 AM on the morning of the event to reserve your spot, arrive early and enjoy picnicking and festivities
DIGS! (Celebración de los Dignatarios)
Thursday, August 6 from 5 - 10p | Santa Barbara Zoo | purchase tickets
Looking for Fiesta's biggest party? DIGS delivers! Spend the evening sampling bites from local restaurants, sipping margaritas, dancing to live music and taking in sunset views from the Santa Barbara Zoo.
Las Noches de Ronda
Thursday, August 6 and Friday, August 7 from 8 - 11p | Santa Barbara Courthouse & Sunken Gardens
As the sun goes down, the Santa Barbara County Courthouse transforms into one of Fiesta's most magical settings. Pack a blanket and settle in for an evening of flamenco, folklórico, live music and unforgettable performances beneath the stars. It's a Fiesta tradition you won't want to miss.
The Historical Parade (El Desfile Histórico)
Friday, August 7 from noon - 2p | along Cabrillo Blvd
Grab your lawn chair and claim a spot along Cabrillo Boulevard for one of Santa Barbara's most beloved Fiesta traditions. Featuring beautifully decorated floats, magnificent horses and performances that bring the city's rich history to life, the Historical Parade is a celebration of the people and traditions that make Santa Barbara so special.
Our tips: reserve your space on the curb beginning at 5pm the evening before
Flor y Canto
Friday, August 7 from 7 - 8p | Santa Barbara Courthouse & Sunken Gardens
Step back in time with an evening celebrating the music, songs and dances of 19th-century Spanish California. Complete with live performances, historic storytelling and period instruments, Flor y Canto offers a beautiful glimpse into Santa Barbara's rich cultural heritage.
El Desfile de los Niños (Children's Parade)
Saturday, August 8 at 10a
One of Fiesta's sweetest traditions, the Children's Parade celebrates Santa Barbara's youngest participants as they fill the streets in colorful costumes, music, and smiles. It's a heartwarming event that captures the community spirit and cultural traditions at the heart of Fiesta.
Whether you're planning to attend one event or soak up the Fiesta spirit all week long, we hope this guide helps you make the most of one of Santa Barbara's most cherished traditions.
Here's to a week filled with music, dancing, great food, and unforgettable memories.
¡Viva la Fiesta!
For more info on Fiesta, please visit: https://www.sbfiesta.org/
Dianne & Brianna Johnson, Village Properties
📞 805-455-6570 • 805-450-6078
💌 [email protected]
DRE 00947199 & 01943572
