The 103rd annual Old Spanish Days Fiesta is underway in Santa Barbara, bringing music, dance, and cultural traditions to venues across the city as thousands gather to celebrate the region's heritage.
The five-day festival officially kicked off Wednesday, with performers of all ages showcasing traditional dances and honoring generations of local history.
For young dancer Catalina Montepeque, taking the stage is about more than performing, it's about inspiring others through culture.
"I'm really excited, and I really love dancing for other people, so I hope people enjoy me dancing for them," Montepeque said. As hundreds of attendees filled the streets and event spaces, dancers, musicians and community members helped preserve traditions that have been passed down for generations.
Montepeque said she hopes her performance encourages others to embrace and share their own cultural traditions.
"I just want to make everyone else inspired so they could share their beautiful dances with us," she said. For parents watching from the audience, the festival represents an opportunity to pass those traditions on to the next generation.
"I was born and raised here, so what it means to me now is a lot different than what it meant to me earlier," said Jeremy Tumml, whose child is performing in the celebration. "Now, what's special is seeing the youth grow up and celebrate this beautiful culture."
Old Spanish Days Fiesta continues through Sunday, Aug. 9, with parades, performances, and community events taking place throughout Santa Barbara.
