Old Spanish Days reschedules some 2020 Fiesta events

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. -- The biggest event of the year in Santa Barbara, Old Spanish Days is going to have a different look due to the concerns over crowd gathering during the coronavirus crisis.

El Presidente Erik Davis says like the rest of the world, the COVID-19 has had an impact financially, emotionally and physically.

"The Old Spanish Days Board of Directors is closely monitoring the situation with the coronavirus and is meeting with government officials, sponsors and collaborative partners to plan for a wide variety of scenarios," said Davis

Fiesta events for April and May have been rescheduled. That includes the Spirit and Junior Spirit competition along with La Primavera.

In February, ¡Vamos A Bailar! (Let’s Dance) was announced as 2020 Fiesta theme.

Old Spanish Days has not revealed its 2020 poster or pin. That was expected next month.

Dates still on the Fiesta calendar include Fiesta Ranchera in Goleta on June 18, the Fiesta costume sale July 11, La Reception del Presidente August 2  and the main Old Spanish Days event set for August 5 - 9. 

"We are eager to bring the community back together when we know we can do it safely," said Davis. "I look forward to better times and we will get through this together."

Old Spanish Days began in 1924. Historians recall there was no Fiesta due to World War II from 1942 to 1945. It resumed in 1946.