Old Spanish Days Unveils The 2025 Fiesta Poster And Pin
Both Celebrate the Spirit of Santa Barbara’s Beloved Tradition
The 2025 edition of Santa Barbara’s Fiesta poster and pin were unveiled at the Old Spanish Days La Primavera celebration at The Carriage and Western Art Museum.
The poster celebrates the spirit, color, and passion of Santa Barbara’s cherished Fiesta celebration while the pin is based on movement and tradition. Both were designed by El Presidente 2025 Fritz Olenberger who selected one of his favorite photographs of a flamenco dancer for the poster, and a Folklórico dancer mid-spin for the pin. Local artist Derek Harrison transformed the poster image into an oil-on-canvas painting.
“At the heart of the composition is a flamenco dancer clad in a striking red Bata de Cola, the long-tailed dress traditionally worn in this passionate art form,” said El Presidente Olenberger in unveiling the poster. “A graceful ‘S-curve’ flows through the image, formed by the dancer’s flying, white-fringed shawl, the elegant turn of her body, and the trailing fabric of her dress — capturing a dynamic sense of movement and vitality. This powerful visual invites viewers to feel the rhythm and emotion of the moment, conveyed through vivid color and light, even in the absence of sound.”
Each year, months are spent designing and creating the Fiesta poster which is an iconic symbol of Santa Barbara’s Old Spanish Days celebration. Local artists Larry Vigon, Eric States and Cynthia Van Stein also contributed to the poster design.
“I envisioned a poster that embodies the beauty, magic, and vibrant energy of Fiesta,” Olenberger said. “I emphasized the importance of expressing pure joy and freedom, asking Harrison to capture the dancer mid-motion — ‘dancing as if no one is watching’.”
Known for his captivating images of dancers in motion atop the Old Mission’s rooftop, Olenberger’s work once again serves as the creative foundation for this year’s collectible pin.
“After reviewing hundreds of dynamic photographs, I selected one vibrant image and artistically adapted it into a stunning enamel pin design,” he said. “The Folklórico dancer is in colorful dress that swirls around her, a handkerchief gracefully in hand, and her hair caught in joyful motion. Enhanced with gleaming gold lettering and delicate highlights, the design radiates movement, joy, and tradition.”
Both the 2025 Fiesta poster and pin are available at sbfiesta.org. Old Spanish Days 2025 runs July 30-August 3. Additional information and schedules are available at sbfiesta.org
