Old Spanish Days (OSD) recent La Primavera event was a night of history, dance and community that raised more than $40,000, making it the most successful fundraiser the organization has ever organized.

Attendees at the historic Casa De La Guerra were first treated to folklórico regional dances of Mexico, as well as early California dance with live musicians.

The reception culminated with a tableau vivant of the historic Theodore Van Cina painting “Fandango,” which portrays a festive dance scene that took place during the three-day wedding of Don Jose De La Guerra’s daughter, Anita, to Alfred Robinson. The wedding was featured in the book “Two Years Before the Mast.”

Those attending then experienced a fiery flamenco show at El Paseo Restaurant.

TourSpain was the evening’s title sponsor and with the support from community members in attendance will help fund the free Fiesta events like La Fiesta Pequeña, Las Noches de Ronda and El Desfile Histórico (the historic Fiesta Parade) in August.

Money raised covers event expenses like insurance coverage, equipment rental, and venue costs. More than half the funds necessary to put on the annual Fiesta celebrations are generated from official Old Spanish Days parties.

“We spent 18 months planning the event, and the entire Old Spanish Days organization is thankful to everyone that participated, attended and contributed to make this event a success,” said 2023 El Presidente David Bolton. “It was a fun and a memorable night as we brought history together with extraordinary entertainment at two iconic Santa Barbara locations for a great cause.”

The next fundraiser for the nonprofit will be Fiesta Ranchera, June 15 at Goleta at Rancho La Patera Gardens. On July 30, La Recepción del Presidente fundraiser will be held at the Santa Barbara Club.

Purchase tickets at www.sbfiesta.org/tickets.