Fiesta 2009

Fiesta 2009 is over at last. No more stages filled with whirling dancers in beautiful costumes, no more wonderful live music; the Mercados and carnival rides put away once again, horses trundled back to their home stalls, Rodeo contestants on to their next competition, and the Board of Old Spanish Days quietly starting to prepare for Fiesta 2010.

Thanks to our sponsors who stepped up in a difficult economic year and supported the 85 year old tradition of Fiesta. We continue to marvel at our more than 3,000 volunteers who helped at the Dignatarios Reception, served as parade outriders and wranglers, Marshals and ham radio operators, float builders and drivers, carriage and wagon decorators and drivers; Bienvenidos, announcers, scriptwriters, flower girls and their families, helpers at our reserved seating area, people who greeted guests at Fiesta parties, ran the costume sale, and on and on. They are truly the spirit and tradition of Fiesta.

We also salute the City of Santa Barbara for their continued financial and operations support. From the men and women of Public Works, Transportation and Streets, Parks and Recreation, Police and Fire and City Administration who partner with Old Spanish Days for 12 months a year in pre and post Fiesta planning and execution. And we thank our print, television, radio, web and email media partners who ensured you read about Fiesta, saw it on TV news, had picture galleries to enjoy on your computer, or watched Fiesta Pequeña and the Historical Parade on KEYT.

Fiesta has been a treasured community event since 1924. The Board of Old Spanish Days in Santa Barbara is proud to be the steward and producer of one of the finest city celebrations in the US. We hope you enjoyed the food, the shows, the parades and the joy on your children’s faces.

Viva la Fiesta!