“Las Noches de Ronda” kicks off consecutive nights of entertainment in Sunken Gardens

SANTA BARBARA, Calif.-Many of the Old Spanish Days events take place during the day, but that is not the case with Las Noches de Ronda.

The show that translates to Nights of Gaiety puts flamenco dancers and others in the spotlight at sunset and after dark on a stage in the romantic Santa Barbara County Sunken Garden or Sunken Gardens depending on who you ask.

Las Noches de Ronda is emceed by different people with a connection to Santa Barbara's history each night.

People often say it is their favorite part of fiesta although there are no food vendors or mercados nearby.

Spectators put out blankets and lawn chair to save their spaces hours in advance on Thursday morning.

"Four generation of my family, we have been coming forever, my granddaughter came at 7 am to get our space again," said Ron Bruns.

Bruns got to see his 13-year-old great granddaughter Marlee Ybarra dance with the Garcia dancers.

The group auditioned on Monday for a spot on the Las Noches de Ronda stage.

The fiesta brochure says the evening performances feature "songs from the fire of flamenco to the charm of Mexican Folklòrico dances."

Las Noches de Ronda has two more shows at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

For more information visit sbfiesta.org.

Your News Channel will have highlights tonight at ten and eleven.