Viva La Fiesta of Summer in the Garden

Vibrant color can add to a festive atmosphere in the garden.

Fiesta in the Garden

Santa Barbara’s annual celebration of Fiesta, or Old Spanish Days, signals the continuation of summer. With warm evenings come long summer parties and Santa Barbara’s citywide shindig knows how to party. Fiesta is a week-long celebration of our heritage as a town, which began 230 years ago with the founding of the tenth California mission dedicated to Saint Barbara. With our roots firmly grounded in Spanish and Mexican culture, our architecture reflects the influence, as does our food. It’s the perfect combination of ingredients for a fabulous party.

As summer parties are generally outdoor fetes, a glorious Summer garden is a must for the requisite festive atmosphere. No matter the size and scope of your space you can have a vibrant, colorful garden befitting any summer fun you have planned.  

Add Color to the Party

Bright yellows to match long, summer evenings.

For a quick summer party pick-me-up, try using pots of flowering plants in your favorite hues. Ivy Geranium is easy, drought tolerant and comes in a variety of gorgeous, vivid colors ranging from rich reds, to pinks, lavenders and even white which add that spark of excitement to any garden.  

Garden Design Tip: If the desired effect is formality, select one color (such as white or even red) in your flower garden, pots and arrangements.

If you are going for a more exuberant vibe, go crazy with any colors you like. If Geraniums aren’t “your thing” try petunias, daisies or even colorful succulents to spice up your summer garden party. Set the stage for a colorful and lively summer party that you can continue to enjoy long after the confetti is all cleaned up.

Until next time, Viva La Fiesta all summer!  
Fill your garden with joy,  Lisa