Fiesta Fever!

By Lisa Duncan

Santa Barbara positively twinkled to life this weekend as the ever-enchanting Old Spanish Days Fiesta set the tone for a season of pageantry, pride, and rarefied revelry – a rather splendid social swirl, if ever there was one. With events unfolding across town, anticipation for Fiesta 2026 is already deliciously palpable – and now officially themed “Fiesta Forever.”

First stop: the historic El Presidio, where the 2026 “Saint Barbara” was presented with signature grace by the Native Daughters of the Golden West. Honoree Julie Foley, a descendant of the Ortega family, was warmly welcomed – a living link to Santa Barbara’s storied heritage. Among those in attendance was Colin Hayward, new El Presidente 2026, who remarked, “Fiesta is so meaningful to us, because the rich history is something we want to preserve and protect, and keep going, forever.”

Later, a properly polished gathering of community leaders and fiesta faithful assembled on the steps of City Hall for the official unveiling of the theme, with members of the Old Spanish Days Board of Directors out in full force. In attendance were David Bolton, Brandon Vallin, Director of the Parade, Scott Burns, Tony Miller, Fritz Olenberger, Boris Alves, and City Councilman Oscar Gutierrez, among others. The theme “Fiesta Forever” arrives with new programs this year, including a poetry contest, a photo contest, and a darling dog show – sure to be a paws-itively charming addition. 

Competitions for the 2026 Spirit of Fiesta took place Saturday at the Lobero, where 20 finalists delivered a dazzling display of dance and devotion. From this talented troupe, Jenna Ramirez was crowned the 2026 Spirit, with Penelope Hernandez earning the Junior Spirit title. Last year’s Spirit Natalia Treviño and Junior Spirit Victoria Plascencia offered a graceful farewell.

Next up: La Primavera on May 2nd at El Paseo Restaurant, promising flamenco, mariachi, and Fiesta flair in full flourish. This Fiesta fever is just getting started!