The Drone of Fiesta

Santa Barbara Fiesta 2023, complete with drones.

August is the time many cities and towns in California hold their annual fiesta celebrations. Music, food and speeches punctuate the events, with crowds splayed on patches of grass, while children and dogs do their best to seem interested. A new feature this year is the introduction of drone technology. Zipping here and there above the festivities is the distinctive whine of plastic props, complete with running lights.