[Noozhawk’s note: One in a daily series leading up to Old Spanish Days Fiesta.]
In 1931, Santa Barbara invited new Gov. James Rolph to enjoy Old Spanish Days Fiesta.
Among those in the powerful welcome party were E.W. Alexander, Warner Edmonds, Harry H. Harris, Dwight Murphy, Mayor Harvey T. Nielson, Santa Barbara newspaper publisher Tom Storke and 1931 El Presidente Sam Stanwood, a longtime Santa Barbara County supervisor who would hold the position of El Presidente for 20 years.
Fiesta history comes alive this year as we celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Old Spanish Days Fiesta.
It all began in 1924 with a community Fiesta to celebrate the reopening of the recently reconstructed Lobero Theatre. Shortly after, Old Spanish Days was formed as a nonprofit organization to continue this annual festival honoring our history, culture and traditions.
A century later, Fiesta remains important to our community.
As we count down to the start of Fiesta 2024, the Centennial, we are grateful to the Santa Barbara Historical Museum for helping to keep alive the spirit of Fiesta. Each year the museum’s Project Fiesta! showcases Old Spanish Days in a unique and exciting way.
Thanks to this collaboration, we share photographs from the museum’s Fiesta collection.
Fiesta 2024 runs July 31-Aug. 4, and Project Fiesta! opens July 12 at the museum at 136 E. De la Guerra St. It is well worth a visit to experience the history of our community’s special summer celebration — Old Spanish Days.
Click here for a calendar of Fiesta events.
Enjoy, and Viva el Centenario!
