Welcome to Old Spanish Days
Welcome to Old Spanish Days Fiesta! As El Presidente 2010, it is my honor and privilege to invite you to this year’s Fiesta. Eighty-six years ago, the Lobero Theater was completed, and members of the Community Arts Association were planning opening ceremonies. Ten of Santa Barbara’s prominent citizens envisioned an event that would, “appeal to the carnival spirit lurking in everyone, and at the same time perpetuate Santa Barbara’s picturesque early days’ atmosphere”. The three-day event would include the show “The Beggar on Horseback”, an early day costume pageant, and several parades in which every organization in town was asked to enter a float. From that daring event, Fiesta was born, and to this day continues to celebrate Santa Barbara’s unique spirit, history, cultures and traditions that we know as Old Spanish Days Fiesta.
My theme for this year is “A Gathering of Friends”. Reflecting back on that first Fiesta, when friends organized it, neighborhood groups planned some of the special teas and flower shows, and friends attended the events scattered around the little town of Santa Barbara.
Throughout my life, always with friends, I have enjoyed the events of Fiesta. From attending Fiesta Pequeña on the Mission steps, Noches de Ronda at the historical Court House, Dignatarios at the Zoo, the Rodeo, and Parade, to purchasing gifts at the Arts and Crafts show along Cabrillo Boulevard and wandering the Mercado’s sampling a wonderful assortment of food and enjoying live performances with friends. One thing seems constant from year to year: friends enjoying the company of friends. I invite you to gather your friends and enjoy Fiesta with us.
Viva la Fiesta
Michael Dominguez
2010 El Presidente
