It is surrounded by tall trees, palms, green spaces, and spacious rose gardens which provide ample room to set off the architecture. People start to arrive early, park their cars as directed a few blocks away in lovely residential areas, and walk up to the hill. Many carry folding chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets. Soon the lawns in front of the Old Mission are filled with a crowd. Many people, and especially the children, are in costume.
Dignitaries sit in rows of chairs in front of the church.
Both men and women are dressed in the classic Spanish style. It looks like a festive scene from Granada or Seville. The Spanish did their conquering and pioneering earlier than the Yankees. Presently, the padres open the Fiesta with blessings. The merrymaking can begin.