5. Old Spanish Days Fiesta

The Buzz -- Celebrating Santa Barbara's Hispanic heritage, this long-lived festival (established in 1924) fosters community spirit and renews cultural and historical traditions. The event recalls the area's ranching period in the early part of the 19th century, a transition time from Mexican to American rule. During the days of the festival, folks enjoy authentic costumes, parades, music, dancing, marketplaces, rodeo competitions, horse and cattle exhibitions, and flowers.