Fiesta Santa Barbara, also know as Old Spanish Trail Days, is one of the largest equestrian parade per capita in the country. Held each year in August, the parade begins at the beach and progresses up State St. in the historic center of old Santa Barbara.

After the parade, have a fresh fish taco and a margarita at the infamous Paradise Cafe. If you're lucky, a cowboy or girl will ride their horse right on up to the bar. Stroll through the markets or take the kids for a ride at the carnival. Or pull up a blanket and bring your picnic basket to a concert at the Sunken Gardens at the Santa Barbara Courthouse. Kids can dance and parents can soak up some music along with the California sun.

While you're there, don't forget to visit the Old Mission Santa Barbara. A visit to Santa Barbara would not be complete without a visit to Brophy's on the marina, serving up fresh oysters and Bloody Marys. Squeeze yourself into a spot at the bar outside and strike up a conversation with a stranger while you watch the sunset over the Santa Ynez mountains.

Fiesta Santa Barbara

To learn more:  oldspanishdays-fiesta.org/new/index.php

Penny Sadler is the Style/Travel Editor for Wandering Educators. For
more information on traveling in style, please see www.pennysadler.com and http://adventuresofacarryon.com/

All photos courtesy and copyright Penny Sadler