Santa Ana Fiestas Patrias returns September 12–13, 2026, for a weekend celebrating Mexican culture and independence in the heart of Santa Ana. The free community festival features live entertainment, cultural performances, food, carnival rides and games, along with the Fiestas Patrias parade and El Grito celebration.
Highlights include El Grito, commemorating Miguel Hidalgo’s historic call for independence, plus folklórico dancing, Mexican music, cultural activities and festival food. The celebration draws visitors to Santa Ana’s Civic Center and downtown area for two days of festivities.
The parade and festival will take place on Saturday, September 12 and Sunday, September 13, 2026.
About Fiestas Patrias
Fiestas Patrias refers to Mexico’s patriotic celebrations surrounding Independence Day on September 16. A central tradition is El Grito de Dolores, commemorating Miguel Hidalgo’s 1810 call that helped launch Mexico’s independence movement. Communities celebrate with music, folklórico dancing, food, cultural traditions and public gatherings. The celebration also coincides with the beginning of National Hispanic Heritage Month, observed September 15 through October 15.
Santa Ana Fiestas Patrias Parade
Fiestas Patrias Parade Website
Where: Santa Ana Civic Center
(On Flower Street between Civic Center Drive and Santa Ana Boulevard)
Approximate Address: 602 N Flower Street, Santa Ana, CA 92703
Admission: Free
There are fees for attractions and games plus food and beverages will be available for purchase
2026 Festival Dates & Hours
Saturday, September 12, 2026: 12PM – 11PM
Sunday, September 13, 2026: 12PM – 10PM
2026 Parade & Event Schedule
The City of Santa Ana has confirmed the 2026 Fiestas Patrias festival for September 12–13. The festival runs Saturday from 12PM–11PM and Sunday from 12PM–10PM. Check the official City of Santa Ana Fiestas Patrias website for the latest parade time, route, El Grito schedule, entertainment lineup and street-closure information as those details are announced.
Fiestas Patrias Activities
- Live Music & Performances: Folklórico dancers, Mexican singers and bands perform on the festival’s main stage located on Flower Street.
- Carnival Rides
- Food and Beer Garden
- Cultural Plaza: Featuring art, cultural decorations, and souvenirs from different Mexican states and other Latin American nations.
- El Grito ceremony: Synchronized call dating back to 1810. Celebrates the anniversary of the fight for Independence and Hidalgo’s call to arms on the eve of Mexican Independence Day.
Parking
Paid parking is available at nearby Civic Center garages. Parking rates, payment methods and availability can change for special events, so confirm current information before arriving. Two nearby options include:
P6 / Superblock parking garage and lot
- Address: 601 W Santa Ana Boulevard
- Entry/exit at Parton Street and Santa Ana Boulevard
- Automated entry/exit (cash and major credit cards accepted)
- Parking rates are subject to change; confirm current event-day rates before your visit.
P1 / Stadium parking garage
- Address: 1020 W Civic Center Drive
- Entry/exit at Boyd Way and Civic Center Drive
- Cashier on duty (cash and major credit cards accepted)
- Parking rates are subject to change; confirm current event-day rates before your visit.
Limited metered street parking and parking at other City and County-owned parking garages is available in the Civic Center and Downtown area.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Santa Ana Fiestas Patrias 2026?
The 2026 festival takes place Saturday, September 12 and Sunday, September 13.
Is Santa Ana Fiestas Patrias free?
Admission to the festival is free. Food, beverages, carnival rides, games and other attractions may have additional charges.
Where is Fiestas Patrias held?
The celebration takes place in Santa Ana’s Civic Center area, including Flower Street between Civic Center Drive and Santa Ana Boulevard.
What can visitors expect at Fiestas Patrias?
Fiestas Patrias traditionally includes the parade, El Grito, live music and cultural performances, food, carnival rides, games and family activities. Check the City’s official event page for the final 2026 schedule and entertainment lineup.