Born out of the tradition of history-based civic celebrations, Fiesta became an annual event in 1924 and continues to be a grand tribute to Santa Barbara’s past. In this special issue, read about the filmmakers who followed Fiesta dancers from Linda Vega’s studio to create the documentary Polka Dot Alley. You’ll also find a complete schedule of events to the long weekend’s festivities, from the mercados and parades to the rodeo and rondas, as well as the scoop on the Sprits and El Presidente. ¡Viva la Fiesta!