Welcome to Fiesta 2009

Eighty-five years ago Santa Barbara's founding families and business leaders established the tradition that we have come to know as Old Spanish Days Fiesta.

During our five-day festival we celebrate the traditions handed down from Spain, Mexico and the California Rancho period. We enjoy the old songs and dances in our Fiesta Pequeña and Noches de Ronda, we taste traditional foods in the Mercados, and we capture memories of the past in our Historical Parade. The riding and roping competitions at the Rodeo evolved from spirited contests at the end of busy days in the 1800s rounding up cattle on the old Ranchos.

It is an endearing Santa Barbara tradition that everyone comes together to participate in our community heritage. Being of Italian descent, I have learned that the Craviotto brothers created the Spanish music bands for the first Fiestas, for years Teresa Di Piazzi taught local performers the original dances of the Californios, and Maria Margelli founded the Old Spanish Days Arts and Crafts Mercado. Our cultural identity is a community heritage uniquely celebrated by all who live here.

My theme "A Tribute to Tradition" was inspired by the different ways we love to appreciate this history and to participate in the celebration. It reflects the spirit of the people in our community who work hard, enjoy life, good food, music, song and dance.

As a Santa Barbara native I am honored and privileged to be the Old Spanish Days 2009 El Presidente. Join me and the Old Spanish Days organization by celebrating these wonderful traditions and preserving the spirit of Santa Barbara. Our century-old tradition of hospitality is extended to all.

Viva La Fiesta
Anthony Borgatello
2009 El Presidente