Santa Barbara's Our Lady of Guadalupe Church Mercado Attracts Thousands

The Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Santa Barbara is hosting its annual three‑day Mercado from August 7‑9, drawing thousands of visitors for food, live music and games. Organizers report thousands of plates of homemade tamales and other traditional dishes prepared by families who have run booths for generations. The event also includes a special mass, a newly repaired mosaic and mural honoring Our Lady of Guadalupe, and plans for future improvements to the gathering space.

The Mercado coincides with the city’s 103rd Old Spanish Days Fiesta, celebrated from August 5‑9 under the theme “Fiesta Forever.” The citywide festivities feature live music, parades, expanded markets on State Street, a new beer garden in De La Guerra Plaza, and street closures. City officials have reiterated that Santa Barbara police will not assist ICE operations, aiming to reassure residents after last year’s immigration‑raid concerns.