First Spirit of Fiesta To Be Parade Grand Marshal

Santa Barbara’s Old Spanish Days is celebrating 90 years this week and Friday is the El Desfile Histrico parade down State Street.

This year the parade grand marshal is a throwback to the past. Lia Parker is the very first person to be named Spirit of Fiesta in 1949. Parker held the title for three straight years and 65 years later she’ll be back in the parade as the main honoree.

“I don’t know what the grand marshal is but I’m honored,” 80-year-old Parker said.

Old Spanish Days says the Spirit of Fiesta is a visual representation of Fiesta and a goodwill ambassador to local residents and visitors alike. Parker being the very first says dancing in the parade has a special kick!

If you can’t make it to E l Desfile Histrico on Friday you can watch every minute on a special edition of NewsChannel 3 starting at noon.