Fiesta Santa Barbara Historical Parade

I love a good parade–don’t you? One of the best parades I’ve ever seen is the historical parade in Santa Barbara during the “Old Spanish Days Fiesta” celebrations.  I return to Santa Barbara year after year for the Fiesta Historical Parade, one of the largest equestrian parades in the country.

Pretty ladies – Fiesta Historical Parade

The Fiesta parade commemorates the history and culture of Santa Barbara. The Chumash Indians, the Spanish, and the Mexicans are all represented in the parade. So in addition to being a beautiful parade it’s also at least somewhat educational.  Santa Barbara appears to be a city that honors and nurtures its Indian, Spanish, and Mexican heritage. 

Fun wardrobe

From the Old Spanish Days website:

“Our tradition of handsome horses, expert equestrians, rodeo competitions with skillful cowboys, singing and dancing and delight in welcoming visitors: these are the things we commemorate and celebrate in our Old Spanish Days as they have been treasured in our community for over 180 years.

Vacquero riding in the Fiesta Parade

” If during the days you spend with us enjoying the music, dance, and fun, you leave with a deeper appreciation of our history and of the traditions of our earlier cultures, our efforts will have been rewarded.”

Aside from the parade, you can explore the markets, enjoy parties and concerts, rodeos, regional food and wine, and shopping. For architecture lovers, be sure to take a tour of the courthouse and the Old Mission Santa Barbara.

Moi and friend ready to kill it during Fiesta week in Santa Barbara.

Part of the fun of going to the parade is dressing the part: Spanish western style wardrobe that might seem out of place anywhere else.  Anything goes – it’s the place to wear that big sombrero you purchased on vacation in Mexico…now gathering dust on a shelf, or full-on western wear including chaps and spurs. I’ve seen it all at the parade.

Don’t worry if you don’t have anything or playing dress-up just isn’t for you, plenty of people go in their shorts and a t-shirt I usually wear cowboy boots and a hat with jeans or a denim skirt and western shirt.

Love these smiling ladies

Old Spanish Days is one big colorful party. 

While you’re visiting Santa Barbara, known as the American Riviera, you can go swimming, surfing, and play volleyball on some of the most pristine beaches anywhere. Or just enjoy the great climate and the million-dollar views while lounging at an alfresco  table at one of the harbor cafes.

I’m sure you’ll agree, this parade is gorgeous…the horses, the costumes, all set against the charming Spanish architecture of Santa Barbara. Plan a visit in August to see this spectacular parade.  All of the festivities begin on the Wednesday before the first Friday in August. 

VIVA LA FIESTA!

Related posts:

Santa Ynez Valley Wine Tasting The Tasting Rooms Of The Urban Wine Trail, Santa Barbara, California How To Spend A Day In Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone