The Weekend Begins Here
Old Santa Ynez Days opens June 18 with a kickoff party that sets the tone for the weekend ahead. More than a preview, the evening brings together locals, supporters, and longtime participants in a relaxed setting that reflects the spirit of the valley. It’s where connections are made, and anticipation builds—an early gathering that signals the start of a weekend defined by tradition, community, and a shared sense of place.
A Town Comes Together
Saturday begins with a 10 a.m. parade through downtown Santa Ynez, followed by a street fair from 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Local vendors, food trucks, and live music transform the town into a lively gathering place. Families line the streets, neighbors reconnect, and the pace of the valley shifts into celebration. It’s here that Old Santa Ynez Days feels most personal—less about programming, more about participation and the rhythms of a town coming together.
Where Tradition Meets the Arena
The Old Santa Ynez Days Rodeo returns June 20–21, bringing PRCA-sanctioned competition to the Santa Ynez Chumash San Carlos Property. From bull riding to barrel racing, the event delivers a high-energy showcase of skill, grit, and western heritage. Now in its seventh year, the rodeo has become a defining draw—pairing professional competition with a distinctly local atmosphere. Gates open Saturday at noon (main event 5 p.m.) and Sunday at 11 a.m. (3 p.m.).
Where the West went wild, and the whole town shows up... lining the streets, filling the stands, and coming together for a weekend that belongs as much to the community as the tradition itself.