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San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association

P.O. Box 532
949-493-1976


History :
The "Fiesta de las Golondrinas" is an outgrowth of a school carnival in the 1930s which was held to celebrate the return of the swallows. Subsequently, the carnival became a local equestrian parade. The Fiesta Association began as a committee of the San Juan Capistrano Business Council, which was later known as the Chamber of Commerce. Original events consisted of an equestrian parade, a trail ride, and a western dance. Various activities have been added and dropped over the years, but the parade continues on. Eventually, the parade became such a large production that the Fiesta committee (now Association) assumed its own identity. The parade is the nation's largest non-motorized parade and draws interest worldwide.

Since 1987, a number of other civic organizations have joined with the Fiesta Association to form a month long celebration known as the "Fiesta de Las Golondrinas." The many events scheduled for this time of the year pay tribute to San Juan Capistrano's unique Spanish and western heritage.

Because of the enormous city growth since its incorporation in 1961, the Fiesta has played a strong role in helping newer residents assimilate into the community. In 1995, the City of San Juan Capistrano made the Fiesta Association the lead coordinating organization with approval rights for all Fiesta de Las Golondrinas events.

By attending and participating in the various Fiesta events, it is the Fiesta Association's hope that the newer residents will come to appreciate San Juan Capistrano's long and interesting history as Orange County's oldest community.

The Swallows Day Parade will be held on March 24th, 2007. The Fiesta de Las Golondrinas celebrates the legend of the return of the swallows to the San Juan Capistrano Mission on St. Joseph's Day, March 19th. This event is the reason behind all the festivities.

San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association, with its ever-growing membership, is open to anyone interested in being part of a dedicated group of people who are still making history in San Juan Capistrano.