May 21, 2009

Vacaville Fiesta Days

Posted to Events & Activities, Lifestyle, Pam Marshall

Memorial Day is almost here and with that starts Vacaville’s Fiesta Days!

I am sure if you are not local – you are wondering, just like I did when first arriving in Vacaville, what are Fiesta Days? I checked out the meaning in the dictionary and the word is derived from Spanish meaning a saint’s day celebrated in Spain and Latin America with processions and dances.

Fiesta Days was originally created in July 1957, first named Western Fiesta. It was a week that was more tuned into cowboy roundups and rodeos along with lots of square dancing. This was the year that most of the events such as the Parade and Queen contest started. They had a grand barbeque in Andrew’s Park and on Sunday the first Whiskerino Contest started. A challenge was given to all the men in Vacaville to grow a beard! If you were beardless you were made a “jailbird”.

Fiesta Days has progressed significantly since 1957. It is now a week long celebration starting on Monday going all the way through Sunday. It begins with opening ceremonies and then a kick-off barbeque. The Grand Marshall is then introduced. This year’s 2009 Grand Marshall is Garland Porter.

As the week progresses there are numerous pageantries including Little Miss Vacaville, Mr. Fiesta King, Miss Vacaville, Mrs. Vacaville, Mrs Solano County and Miss Teen Vacaville.

Thursday starts the golf tournament at Green Tree Golf Club. This is the day the kids really get excited about since the Carnival opens. There are lots of rides, games, live bands and of course great food. Oh, and don’t forget about the arts and crafts.

Saturday, May 23rd at 10AM starts the big parade! Watch for Kappel & Kappel agents and their children or grandchildren. They will have visors and fans to give away.

The activities continue through Sunday. I have just highlighted on some of the activities but check it out on www.fiestadays.com to get all the times and details.

Posted by:Pam Marshall