Fiesta Costume Sale

In August 1924, the premiere Old Spanish Days fête was held to inaugurate the opening of the new Lobero Theatre, draw summer visitors to the city, and celebrate Santa Barbara’s Spanish and Mexican heritages. During the weeklong gala, folks donned the festive traditional garb of Alta California’s founders.

Now, 87 years later, colorful costumes are still a significant part of the Fiesta events. To help folks dress up for the celebrations, the Old Spanish Days committee is holding its annual Fiesta Costume Sale. The sale will include selections of trajes de flamenca (flamenco outfits), the female flamenco dancers’ dress; decorative shawls; costumes for men and children; and myriad accessories.

Maria Cabrera, this year’s costume sale chair, assures there will be a vast variety of items to choose from “at affordable prices.” The apparel for sale comes from dance schools clearing out their inventory as well as costume and accessory vendors. The public is also invited to sell Spanish and Mexican-style costumes at the event. In addition to clothing, Fiesta pins, posters, and other memorabilia will be available for purchase.

¡Viva la Fiesta!

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The Costume Sale takes place Saturday, July 9, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Carriage and Western Art Museum (129 Castillo St.) in the back of the Pershing Park parking lot. To reserve a table for $5, or to inquire about selling your costumes, call the Old Spanish Days office at 962-8101.