Pre-Fiesta Events 2013

Old Spanish Days features special daily events and numerous Fiesta-long activities. Here’s what to plan for this coming week.

SUN., JULY 28

Recepción del Presidente

Join El Presidente Josiah Jenkins at his recepción: Mexican buffet and live music, performances by the 2013 Spirit and Junior Spirit of Fiesta. Feel free to wear your Fiesta attire. 5-10pm. DoubleTree Resort Plaza del Sol, 633 E. Cabrillo Blvd. $85 (advance); $100 (at door). Call 962-8101 or email info@oldspanishdays-fiesta.org.

Exposicion de Fotografia

Old Spanish Days photographs by Fritz Olenberger, shows through August 3. Mon.-Fri., 9am-6pm; Sat., 9:30am-6pm. Samy’s Camera, 614 Chapala St. Call 963-7269.

WED., JULY 31

La Fiesta Pequeña

The “Little Fiesta” officially opens Old Spanish Days. Held on the steps of Santa Barbara’s historic Old Mission, the event features traditional songs and dance, including tunes of the Californios and flamenco, Spanish classical, and Mexican folklórico dances. Food is available for purchase from vendors. 8pm. S.B. Mission, 2201 Laguna St. Free.

WED.-THU., JULY 31-AUG. 1

Santa Barbara Mission Tours

Come explore this beautiful landmark during special docent-led tours. Mon.-Tue., 11am and 1:30pm; Wed.-Fri., 11am, 1:30pm, and 3pm; Sat., 10:30am and 1:30pm. S.B. Mission, 2201 Laguna St. Call 682-4713.

Courthouse Fiesta Tours

Take guided tours (every half hour) of the Moorish-Spanish building. Meet in the Mural Room. 10am-3pm. Santa Barbara County Courthouse, 1100 Anacapa St. Free. Call 962-6464.

El Mercado de la Guerra

Feast on Spanish and Mexican-American foods, shop for crafts and souvenirs, and enjoy live entertainment, including Spanish and Mexican folk dancing, children’s events, and music. 11am-11pm. De la Guerra Plaza (across from City Hall). Free.

El Mercado del Norte

Enjoy a selection of Spanish-Mexican foods and beverages, including icy cold beer margaritas at the Crazy Horse Cantina, as well as carnival rides for the kids and live entertainment in the evening. 11am-11pm. MacKenzie Park, State St. and Las Positas Ave. Free.

Casa Cantina

Eleventh annual Mexican-style cantina featuring beer and margaritas at Casa de la Guerra. All proceeds benefit the S.B. Trust for Historic Preservation. Noon-midnight. Casa de la Guerra Courtyard, 15 E. De la Guerra St. Call 965-0093.

THU., AUG. 1

La Misa del Presidente

Mass at the Old Mission followed by a garden reception. A nondenominational service, open to the public. Fiesta attire encouraged. 10am. Free. Old Mission, 2201 Laguna St. Info: 682-4713.

Celebración de los Dignatarios

Appetizers and wines by area restaurants and vintners. Meet local dignitaries; live music by Soul City Survivors. 5-10pm. S.B. Zoo, 500 Niños Dr. Tickets: $85 (advance); $100 (door). Tickets: 962-8101 or brownpapertickets.com/event/258550.

Professional Bull Riders Challenger Tour

Nation’s top riders compete in bull roping. Earl Warren Showgrounds, Calle Real at Las Positas Tickets: Box seats $80 and $65 each; general admission seats $40 (adult) or $25 (under 11). 7:45pm. Tickets and info: Jedlicka’s, 687-0747; Showgrounds, 967-6331; and sbfiestarodeo.com.

Las Noches de Ronda (Nights of Gaiety)

A variety show of music, singing, flamenco, and folklórico dances from many regions of Mexico. Bring blankets and chairs for lawn seating. 8pm. S.B. County Courthouse, Sunken Gardens, 1100 Anacapa St. Free.

Competencia de los Vaqueros (Fiesta Stock Horse Show & Rodeo)

Tri-county riders compete in the Alisal Ranch Horse Class, Fiesta Ranch Horse Class, Old Timers Team Roping, and Steer Stopping. 8am. Earl Warren Showgrounds, Calle Real at Las Positas Rd. Free. Info: 688-5093 or sbfiestarodeo.com.