Old Spanish Days 2026 to Include Super-Sized Mercado in Downtown Santa Barbara

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. (KEYT) - The traditional downtown mercado in De la Guerra Plaza will grow for this week's Fiesta.

The change for the 2026 event will expand the mercado out to State Street.

Old Spanish Days says beyond De la Guerra Plaza and De la Guerra Street, the mercado footprint will go up and down State Street for two blocks, bordered by Ortega St. and Canon Perdido Street.

The free event runs from Wednesday, August 5 through Saturday, August 8, 2026.

The mercado area will have a main stage in the plaza surrounded by food, a beer garden, and vendors. 

Some of the vendors began setting up on Sunday. They continue construction Monday.

All permits for health and construction will be verified before the operators can serve guests.

Thousands will be expected to visit the area during Old Spanish Days, with many local residents planning to go on the first day before the flow of tourists pour into the city.

This will be the only mercado operated by Old Spanish Days.

There will not be a mercado at MacKenzie Park or at the waterfront as the city has seen in the past.  There will be no Old Spanish Days carnival.

There will be a carnival or mini fair on the field at The Club on Canon Perdido Street with rides, food and dancing.

The Club will also have a free pancake breakfast Saturday morning from 7 - 9 a.m.

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