Fiesta Blends Together Montecito and Santa Barbara for Upcoming Special Event
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. (KEYT) - Just days before the start of the 2026 Old Spanish Days, Santa Barbara's Coast Village Road will hold its first 'Fiesta in Montecito,' on July 30.
It will take place where the popular shopping, dining and residential street also holds a Christmas tree lighting event and a Halloween party throughout the year.
A special stage will be set up in a closed off section of the inner traffic lane and parking spots at the intersection of Coast Village Road and Middle Road.
“We are excited to be bringing Fiesta to Montecito,” said El Presidente 2026 Colin Hayward. “It will be a celebration of everything that is Old Spanish Days – flamenco and folklorico dance, music and mariachis.”
It will be a secure location away from the main traffic on the street. "That will make everybody safe who is in this area, not only the people who are seated during the event but also the dancers," said Hayward.
A variety of dance groups will perform along with the 2026 Spirit of Fiesta Jenna Ramirez and Penelope "Penny" Hernandez, the Junior Spirit. Runners up will also be taking the stage.
" I think that is so great that we get to share what we love to do with Montecito. I am so happy that we can collaborate. It's going to be so much fun," said Ramirez.
Joining her Hernandez looks forward to the new site. "I'm super excited because I love dancing everywhere and more places to dance is really exciting and more people can enjoy this Fiesta. "
David Bolton is the Old Spanish Days Division Chief of External Relations. "This Fiesta in Montecito is a collaboration between Old Spanish Days Fiesta, the Coast Village Association and the City of Santa Barbara. Flags have been put up all along Coast Village beginning the celebration. "
Hayward said he expects to see Fiesta flags and bunting all over the street and businesses. Some have already been installed the length of Coast Village Road on designated flag poles and business balconies.
Hearing about the special event, several businesses in the area plan to have uniquely curated menu items, drink specials and Fiesta decor inside and out.
Just before the street party there will be a Fiesta poster signing on Coast Village Road at the Sunstone Wine Lounge with El Presidente 2026 Colin Hayward and poster artist Pedro De La Cruz.
There will also be a Fiesta Fashion Show with clothing tips for men and women.
Many businesses hope people come down early and stay later. Lilac Restaurant General Manager Ed Schram said, "we love it. Fiesta obviously a Santa Barbara tradition, we love that it is coming to Coast Village Road. All the businesses will definitely support the Fiesta and love that it is coming this direction."
One customer in the Juice Ranch Meagan Roa said, "I am looking forward to seeing the performances and everything. That should be a good time!"
The event will be two hours of festivities from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. This is a free event.
The inaugural Fiesta in Montecito is a collaboration between Old Spanish Days, the City of Santa Barbara and the Coast Village Association. The idea for the event, Fiesta in Montecito, was created by David Bolton, El Presidente 2023.
CalPrivate Bank is underwriting the Coast Village Road celebration.
Old Spanish Days is in its 103rd year, dating back to the first Fiesta held in 1924. The non-profit organization provides a platform for youth dancers and singers at its many venues throughout the summer.
'Fiesta Forever' is this year’s Old Spanish Days theme. Fiesta 2026 runs August 5-9, 2026.
The El Desfile Parade will take place at noon August 7, along Cabrillo Blvd.
Details, tickets and more at sbfiesta.org
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