Each year, "Madonnari", or street painters, transform the Santa Barbara Mission plaza using pastels by local artists on pavement to create 150 vibrant and colorful, large scale images. This romantic festival is the first of its kind in the western hemisphere inspired by its sister festival in Grazie di Curtatone, Italy. 

Enjoy live music and an authentic Italian market that is adjacent to the painting activity, featuring a wonderful selection of Italian cuisine and specialty items. Bring along a lawn chair and Newcomers will meet up, relax and sit together while enjoying the festival. We will have our own ballot box so you can vote for your favorite entry. Attendance is FREE. Newcomers may purchase food and refreshment selections at the event.