Family and friends cheered, siblings cracked confetti eggs on one another’s heads, all while the dance troupe from the Maria Bermudez Performing Arts Studio took to the stage Thursday at El Mercado de la Playa (formally known as Mercado del Norte).
From performances, rides, games, and plenty of foods and drinks, there was something for everyone at El Mercado de la Playa, which is part of this year’s Old Spanish Days Fiesta festivities.
It was the first time in nearly 30 years that it was been held at La Playa Stadium at Santa Barbara City College on Cabrillo Boulevard. It previously was held at MacKenzie Park.
As an SBCC student, Molly Ford said she loved that Mercado was held on her campus.
“It brings more people,” Ford said. “We get to look at the beach while we’re celebrating. What’s better than that?”
Longtime attendee Scott Fitz introduced his girlfriend, Jessica Gwena, to Fiesta for the first time. They attended La Fiesta Pequeña on Wednesday night, El Mercado on Thursday and said they were looking forward to the parade on Friday.
“It’s a great tradition. I’ve been coming out for years,” Fitz told Noozhawk. “It’s a great way to embrace culture.”
El Mercado de la Playa will continue Friday and Saturday from noon to 10 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Live music, performances and dancing will be playing throughout all three days.