2023 Spirit and Junior Spirit of Fiesta

The Spirit and Junior Spirit of Fiesta represent the charm and beauty of the culture of Old Spanish Days.

Santa Barbara has many local dance schools that instruct students in the multi-cultural dances of Spain, Mexico, and early California. Young performers dedicate countless hours preparing for this annual event and for an honor to represent Old Spanish Days as the “Spirit of Fiesta” and the “Junior Spirit of Fiesta.” The Spirit of Fiesta leads the annual parade and embodies the vitality of Santa Barbara's annual summer festival. The Spirit of Fiesta has come to be the visual representation of Fiesta, a goodwill ambassador to local residents and visitors alike.

If your organization would like to request an appearance by the Spirit or Junior Spirit of Fiesta, please review the guidelines and submit a request form. 

Download Request Form

2023 Spirit of Fiesta - Jack Harwood

Jack Harwood
2023 Spirit of Fiesta Jack Harwood
Jack Harwood, 19, is a Freshman at Santa Barbara City College. He is a fitness-minded student studying kinesiology and engineering. In addition to being a full-time student and dance instructor, he prides himself on his community service. During high school he volunteered for several non-profit organizations in Santa Barbara, accumulating over 1,500 service hours.

2023 Junior Spirit of Fiesta- Olivica Grace Nelson

Olivia Nelson
Junior Spirit of Fiesta Olivia Nelson

Olivia Nelson, 10, is a 4th grader at fRoosevelt Elementary School. Her avorite subjects in school are math and art.  She enjoys multiplication and fractions. Art allows her to express herself. Her hobbies are, drawing/painting, roller skating, gaming, and of course, flamenco.  This year she was nominated to be a class representative.  She gives back to her community by donating gifts to families in need during the holidays. she also dances for retirement homes. She has also recently become interested in beach clean-ups.

Photos by Fritz Olenberger