At this time of year, the city starts to buzz with the thought of the weeklong party called Fiesta. It is a time when people from all around come into Santa Barbara for the festivities. This year is no different, although it marks Fiesta’s 100th anniversary — 100 years of celebration, community, and dance. Since the beginning, every year, one silent but strong thread has run through not only the celebration but the years of preparation.
In 1924 a young Juan Cota, Mr. Fiesta, participated in one of the first events, and he never stopped. Sharing his love of community, family, and dance, Juan instilled in his children a profound sense of pride and responsibility, encouraging them to be part of something greater than themselves, to uphold traditions that reflect the history, pride, and love of their community and family.
His youngest daughter, Kathy Cota, inherited his dedication, values, and commitment to tradition. Starting humbly with her daughter TeriAnn Lopez, a few nieces, and their friends, she founded the Kathy Cota Dance Studio. Her passion became the enduring force behind ensuring a Cota presence on stage every year.
