2026 Santa Barbara Fiesta Guide
Celebrate Santa Barbara's 103rd Annual Old Spanish Days Fiesta with one of the city's most beloved traditions. From colorful parades and live performances to artisan markets, authentic food, and family-friendly events, Fiesta offers something for everyone while honoring Santa Barbara's rich Spanish, Mexican, and Californio heritage.
Live Music & Performances
La Fiesta Pequeña/ “Little Fiesta”
The official kickoff to Fiesta takes place at the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara. This beautiful evening features traditional music, folklórico dance, and cultural performances that celebrate Santa Barbara’s heritage.
Wednesday, August 5 | 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Old Mission Santa Barbara
Las Noches de Ronda / “Nights of Gaiety”
One of Fiesta’s signature traditions, Las Noches de Ronda transforms the Courthouse Sunken Gardens into an outdoor stage featuring hundreds of local singers, dancers, and musicians under the stars.
Thursday, August 6 - Saturday, August 8 | 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM | Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Gardens
Parades & Tour
El Desfile Histórico/ “Historical Parade”
One of the nation's largest equestrian parades. Featuring hundreds of horses, historic carriages, colorful floats, mariachi bands, and cultural groups celebrating Santa Barbara’s history.
Friday, August 7 | Noon - 2:00pm | Cabrillo Boulevard
El Desfile de Los Niños/ “Children's Parade”
A family favorite featuring local children dressed in traditional attire, decorated wagons, floats, horses, and community organizations.
Saturday, August 8 | 10:00AM - Noon | Cabrillo Boulevard
Courthouse Fiesta Tours
Take a free docent-led tour through one of Santa Barbara’s most iconic landmarks while learning about its history and architecture.
Wednesday, August 5 - Sunday, August 9 | Hourly beginning at 10:30 AM | De La Guerra Plaza
Shopping & Markets
Mercado De La Guerra
Fiesta's largest marketplace features authentic Mexican and Spanish cuisine, artisan vendors, handcrafted goods, live entertainment, and family friendly activities throughout the day.
Wednesday, August 5 - Saturday, August 8 | 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM | De La Guerra Plaza
Fiesta Arts & Crafts Show
Browse handmade artwork, jewelry, home decor, clothing, and gifts from local artists while enjoying beautiful oceanfront views.
Saturday, August 8 - Sunday, August 9 | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Cabrillo Boulevard
Community Events
La Misa del Presidente
A longstanding Fiesta tradition honoring La Presidenta and the Old Spanish Days Board with a special ass followed by a community reception.
Thursday, August 6 | 10:00 AM - Noon | Old Mission Santa Barbara
DIGS! (Celebración de los Dignatarios)
An evening celebration recognizing Fiesta dignitaries with food, music, entertainment, and community festivities.
Thursday, August 6 | 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Downtown Santa Barbara
Pre-Fiesta Events
La Recepción del Presidente (Pre-Fiesta Event)
Celebrate the beginning of Fiesta week by welcoming La Presidenta during this festive reception featuring music, food, and community gathering.
Saturday, August 1 | 5:00PM - 10:00PM | Santa Barbara
Fiesta in Montecito
A community celebration featuring live music, dancing, and family-friendly entertainment before the fiesta officially begins.
Thursday, July 30 | 4:30PM - 6:30 PM | Montecito
Additional Fiesta Favorites
Fiesta Stock Horse Show & Rodeo (Ticketed Event)
Celebrate California's vaquero heritage through traditional horsemanship competitions and rodeo events.
Friday, August 7 – Sunday, August 9 | Santa Ynez Valley Equestrian Center
Our Lady of Guadalupe Mercado (Community Favorite)
Enjoy authentic Mexican food, live entertainment, and cultural performances at this Eastside Santa Barbara tradition.
Saturday, August 8 – Sunday, August 9 | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish
