Fiesta Crowds Solid and Not Too Rowdy

The Old Spanish Days Fiesta in Santa Barbara drew large crowds, as it does annually, but police say no major problems were reported.

Many residents and tourists said that they had a very safe and upbeat time.

There were over 120 misdemeanor and felony arrests, many for hard drug possession.

Over 400 traffic citations were issued, the main bulk of them written on Saturday.

Police say gang activity was down, and despite big crowds in nightclubs and in the downtown core area, the local a visiting public celebrated without serious issues.

One hotel and restaurant worker said he gave out many Fiesta tips on events and places for food.

“I actually work at the Best Western Hotel, even non guests, they come in to the hotel and ask where to go for Fiesta. I tell them, you can go to the parade, the mission, you can go to the plaza, there were so many places and so many events in town, it was so easy to direct them,” said Mynor Chavez.

Some international students, studying here this summer were thrilled to see such an international street festival for four days.

Alexia Sidler from Belgium said, “yes it was so great, the parade, it was really beautiful. We saw a lot of horses, and we discovered the new culture, a different culture than mine.”