A Message from Old Spanish Days El Presidente 2025 Fritz Olenberger

It has been an incredible honor to serve during such a special year in Fiesta’s history. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our El Presidente 2026 Colin Hayward, and to the newly elected Board of Directors. I look forward to supporting them in every way I can as I continue to serve on the board as a Past President Director.

I am deeply grateful to this past year’s dedicated board, whose countless hours of work made Fiesta possible. My thanks also go to our generous sponsors, our volunteers, the l incredible dance community, the Mercado vendors, our parade participants, Los Niños de las Flores, the Santa Barbara Zoo, the Goleta Valley Historical Society, the Santa Barbara Mission, and the City of Santa Barbara.

And a special thanks to our Fiesta ambassadors, 2025 Spirit of Fiesta Natalia Treviño and Junior Spirit Victoria Plascencia, and to my dear wife and Honorary La Presidenta Gretchen, whose cheerful support helped me survive through it all.

And finally — to the thousands of people who came together to celebrate, laugh, dance, and truly “Capture the Spirit” of Fiesta — thank you!