Santa Barbara Fiesta!

Every summer, Santa Barbara hosts a weeklong celebration of the old Spanish days called Fiesta. They take the celebration very seriously with lots of dancing and food and dress-up and entertainment and what not. The kids, in-laws, and I had the pleasure of watching the Children's Parade. And Leah had the pleasure of participating in it!

(John and Noelle enjoying the thrill of standing in the middle of the street in front of their mother.)

State street is the main thoroughfare in town and they block it off from traffic for the big to-do.

There are street vendors selling all sorts of fun stuff. Grandy bought the kids confetti eggs and the balloon guy has been selling his wares at Fiesta for over 40 years!

It began with a marching Mariachi band,

and continued with many a colorful, ruffled, dancing girl.

Lots of dance studios bring their students out to perform...

And even the little people get into it:

Groups and families built floats.

And a few groups honored the Chumash Indian tribe who are a major part of Santa Barbara history.

And here comes Leah's big moment! She marched with New Life Church (which is most likely the church we will be going to).

Here she is in all her hand-waving, dress-twirling glory!!! (Of course, Grandy provided the outfit and Leah is already planning for next year...)

John and Noelle were both so excited that they rushed out to greet her.

This was the sombrero float that the kids took turns riding on.

And this is Luke who helped to pull the float.

It was a very fun event for all involved.

VIVA LA FIESTA!