Crowds fill the streets of Isla Vista during Deltopia

ISLA VISTA, Calif. – The unsanctioned street party known as Deltopia filled the streets of Isla Vista on Saturday afternoon.

The Isla Vista Community Services District also set up a stage for live music as part of their Spring Festival in a park just down the street from Del Playa.

This gave people walking up and down Deltopia and other streets alternative activities to enjoy.

Locals called it one of the largest turnouts they’ve seen on a Saturday afternoon in recent years.

The crowd included students from UCSB, Cal Poly, and other young people who simply wanted to experience it for themselves.

“It is amazing, honestly,” said Bailey Bernales, a third-year UCSB student. “I've never had a better time with all my friends. Everyone is being super respectful, and the cops are doing a great job keeping everyone safe.”

Her friend Alexandra Dritsas, also a third-year student at UCSB, agreed.

“This has been my favorite Deltopia so far. We’ve had our friends come and visit,” said Dritsas. “It’s been such a great community—everyone has been so nice and genuine. I haven’t seen any mishaps. It’s been super safe and really fun.”

Cal Poly student Cole Stanford said he enjoyed the event as well.

“I thought it was fun—my first time. A lot going on, a lot of people. Really cool experience,” said Stanford.

Some students said they didn’t know the event originally started as Floatopia, or about the 2014 riot that led to an increased police presence.

Deputies stood near the closed beach stairways and kept watch for any issues.

First responders from multiple agencies worked together to monitor the crowds.