Old Spanish Days Fiesta

Old Spanish Days Fiesta tradition that has continued for over 90 years in Santa Barbara, California. Old Spanish Days Fiesta is a platform for creating educational awareness regarding the rich history, customs, and traditions of the American Indian, Spanish, Mexican, and early American settlers that comprise the cultural heritage of Santa Barbara. Old Spanish Days Fiesta has grown in stature and reputation to become one of the top regional festivals the largest Latin cultural festival in the US. This week long event attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. Fiesta performers travel from all throughout the US and Mexico to participate. Celebrities of international renown who have participated or performed in Fiesta include Leo Carrillo, Will Rogers, Shirley Temple, Charles Lindberg, William Randolph Hearst, Don Wilson, Paul Whitman, and Delores Del Rio. I have covered the Festival two years in a row for one of the corporate sponsors and have utterly and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Last year I shot video primarily and this year I shot still photos exclusively. Both provide their own unique challenges and are rewarding in their own way. Old Spanish Days Fiesta consists of a series of events which start months before the actual celebration - a dance competition where the "Spirit" and "Junior Spirit" are selected. These dancers embody the very essence of the Festival and become the ambassadors through dance for all of events.