Fiesta Events and Venues
La Fiesta Pequea, Wednesday”The Little Fiesta” officially opens Old Spanish Days on the steps of Santa Barbara’s historic Old Mission. This event features Fiesta’s traditional songs and dances: tunes of the Californios, Flamenco, Spanish classical and Mexican folklrico dances. Food is available for purchase from local vendors. This event is held at the Old Mission Santa Barbara located at 2201 Laguna Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105. This event is free.El Mercado de la Guerra, Wednesday – SaturdayStroll through a colorful Mexican market (across from City Hall) to feast on Spanish and Mexican-American foods, shop for crafts and souvenirs, and enjoy live entertainment all day and into the early evening. Mercado de la Guerra is located in De La Guerra Plaza, on the first block of East De La Guerra Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. This event is free.El Mercado Del Norte, Wednesday – SaturdayCome for the fun and the food, stay for the music and dancing. Check out our four distinct “neighborhoods” for all the family: the food court where you can watch daily entertainment and enjoy Fiesta foods; the Fiesta Bazaar for souvenirs; Fiesta Carnival with rides and attractions for the kids, and the Crazy Horse Cantina for icy cold beer margaritas and live entertainment in the evening to get you out on the dance floor. Mercado Del Norte is located in Mackenzie Park at the corner of State Street and Las Positas Street in the San Roque area. This event is free.Casa Cantina, Wednesday – SaturdayCelebrate Fiesta where it all began as Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation presents the 10th annual Casa Cantina in the courtyard of the historic Casa de la Guerra. Part of the annual Old Spanish Days Fiesta celebration, locals and visitors alike are invited to relax, sip a cold drink, and celebrate at the home of Fiesta! Held at Casa de la Guerra, 15 East De la Guerra Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. Entrance fee required, free admission for SBTHP members. For more information please call (805) 965-0093.Celebracin de los Dignatarios, ThursdayEnjoy delicious appetizers and delectable wines presented by local restaurants and wineries while you take pleasure in the zoo’s lush gardens and majestic views. An opportunity to meet local dignitaries and say hello to a few of the zoo animals. Don’t forget to bring your dancing shoes, Soul City Survivors will keeping you out on the floor all evening! Held at the Santa Barbara Zoo, 500 Nios Drive, Santa Barbara, CA 93103.Las Noches de Ronda (“Nights of Gaiety”), Thursday – SaturdayA splendid variety show of music, singing, fiery Flamenco from Spain, and vivid Folklrico dances from many regions of Mexico. Held at the Santa Barbara Courthouse Sunken Gardens, 1100 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. This event is free.The Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Challenger Tour, ThursdayThe toughest sport on earth returns with the nation’s top riders competing in this fast growing sport. The action is so close, you’ll feel the sweat and dirt! Ticket prices TBA. This event is held at Earl Warren Showgrounds, 3400 Calle Real, Santa Barbara, CA 93105. Tickets available by calling (805) 688-5093 or call Jedlicka’s at (805) 687-0747.Our Lady of Guadalupe Mercado, Friday – SundayEnjoy one of the best traditions of Fiesta. Our lady of Guadalupe Mercado serves up a wide array of authentic Mexican cuisine and entertainment. Visit a local secret at 227 North Nopal Street, and experience homemade goodness for the whole family.El Desfile Histrico (Historical Parade), FridayThe Fiesta Historical Parade is one of the largest equestrian parades in the United States. The parade starts at the west end of Cabrillo Boulevard, proceeds east along the beach, to State Street, then up State Street to Sola Street. Viewing the Parade is free but there are shaded Reserved Seats available for purchase.82nd Annual El Desfile De Los Nios (Children’s Parade), SaturdayThe charming Children’s Parade is organized by the City Parks and Recreation Department. Young people of Santa Barbara, their parents and other parade participants, don traditional costumes and celebrate the rich culture of the area. Parade proceeds down State Street, from Victoria Street to Ortega Street. Viewing the parade is free. To participate in the parade please call the Parks and Recreation Department at (805) 897-1982 for information and an application. Ice cream for Parade participants is sponsored by MarBorg Industries.Santa Barbara Mariachi FestivalEnjoy an afternoon of amazing music by several mariachi bands and singers. Held at the Historic Santa Barbara Bowl, 1122 North Milpas Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93103. For tickets or more information please contact the Santa Barbara Bowl at (805) 962-7411.Kiwanis Fiesta Pancake BreakfastThe Kiwanis club will be hosting the 61st Annual Fiesta Pancake Breakfast this year. More than 4,000 guests are served at this event and all proceeds go directly to support activities that benefit children in south Santa Barbara County. It is a great opportunity for the community to get involved. Held in Alameda Park, 1400 Santa Barbara Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. Ticket prices TBA.
