2024 Swallows Day Parade and Mercado Guide

SJC FIESTA ASSOCIATION PRESENTS

64thAnnual

SATURDAY, MARCH 23, 2024 Downtown San Juan Capistrano

2

WELCOME 64th annual Swallows Day Parade and Mercado Street Faire A Welcome Message from San Juan Capistrano Mayor Sergio Farias Fellow residents, I invite you to celebrate the 64th annual San Juan Capistrano Swallows Day Parade! This cherished tradition marks the return of our feathered friends and embodies the spirit of our community — rich in history, vibrant in culture, and in celebration of allthings San Juan Capistrano.

On Saturday, March 23, witness the magic unfold as our historic streets transform into a kaleidoscope of colors and melodies. Come and celebrate our iconic parade featuring equestrian riders and lively music. Immerse yourself in the Mercado Street Faire, brimming with delicious food, handcrafted treasures and engaging activities for everyone.

This year’s theme, “Saddle Up

San Juan,” promises a rootin’ tootin’ good time for all ages. Come together, residents and visitors, to honor tradition, embrace community spirit and revel in the joy of spring’s arrival.

So, mark your calendars, hop on a free trolley downtown and join your friends

and neighbors for an unforgettable day!

See you there!

Warmly,

Sergio Farias MAYOR

San Juan Capistrano

SWALLOWDAYSPARADE.ORG The 64th Swallows Day Parade and Mercado Street Faire event guide is produced in partnership by the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association and Picket Fence Media, publishers of The Capistrano Dispatch, Dana Point Times and the San Clemente Times. Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the SJC Fiesta Association and Picket Fence Media.

Picket Fence Media is located at 34932 Calle del Sol, Ste. B, Capistrano Beach, CA, 92624. Phone 949.388.7700, fax 949.388.9977, thecapistranodispatch. com. Copyright 2024. All rights reserved. Proudly printed in the USA.

3

2024

2024

SIDENT’S E R P

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

MESSAGE

Jim Taylor

Michelle Erca

K.C. Shepard

Jennifer Pointer

El Presidente

C

elebrating 64 years of the Swallows Day Parade!

It has been my honor to serve on the board of directors for this amazing organization. Never have I met such selfless, giving and caring people dedicated to serving their community.

I would like to thank the city of San Juan Capistrano and all of our sponsors for their unwavering support to ensure that this historic event continues. Our volunteers are simply the best and we could not even consider doing this without all of their invaluable help.

We have tried for many years to steer the Swallows Day Parade and Mercado Street Faire toward a more family-friendly environment, and the past two years have shown us that we have succeeded. Last year, I saw more strollers than ever at the parade.

Thank you to all of our attendees for helping us make this a successful event.

I hope you enjoy the 64th annual Swallows Day Parade and the Mercado Street Faire.

Dave Euzarraga

1st VP/Mercado Chair

2nd VP/Asst. Sheriff

Secretary/Membership Chair Treasurer/Taste of San Juan Chair/El Presidente Ball Chair

Dan Clark

Daniele Smith

Karen Stine

Parade Coordinator

Jonathan Jenkins

Asst. Parade Coordinator

Sponsorship/VIP Pavilion

Publicity/Website/Pet Parade Chair

Jimmy Ferguson

Gregg Clapper

Steven Congleton

Fiesta Grande Chair

Logistics

Sheriff

LOOKING TO JOIN FIESTA?

Support the Swallows Day Parade by becoming a member of the SJC Fiesta Association Visit swallowsdayparade.org.

Jim Taylor PRESIDENT

San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association

4

Exceptional Memory Care in San Juan Capistrano At Serra Sol, we add warmth to memory care. From learning about each resident - their likes, dislikes, and more - to offering a variety of lifeenriching activities and daily bus rides, our caring and expertly trained staff will treat your loved one like family.

Experience Serra Sol for yourself.

Schedule your tour today.

949-485-2022 | SerraSol.com

New all-inclusive rates start at $7,995 monthly.

Companion and private apartments are available.

31451 Avenida Los Cerritos, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 5

RCFE: 306005946

A VISITOR’S GUIDE ARRIVE EARLY

TO SWALLOWS DAY

The San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association, which organizes and presents the event, recommends arriving as early as possible, as most streets close at 10 a.m.

A

nnually, without a doubt, the swallows return to San Juan Capistrano. The migration rings in the historic day when locals and travelers take in the Swallows Day Parade in March, bringing a breath of life onto the streets and businesses along the route.

Celebrants at the parade enjoy the diversity of cultures and organizations. Food and drinks are aplenty as are horses trotting through the city, meeting friends old and new.

This year marks the 64th annual Swallows Day Parade for this South Orange County city. For many, this event marks the return of the flighted birds, but also a time to join in the community and celebrate a years-long tradition with one of the last non-motorized parades in the United States. The parade and the Mercado Street Faire on Saturday, March 23, are part of the Fiesta de las Golondrinas, or Festival of the Swallows. The festivities will be in Historic Downtown San Juan Capistrano, filled with many restaurants and businesses.

The parade starts promptly at 11 a.m.

To ensure the enjoyment of all who partake in the event, here are some helpful tips.

TAKE free transportation

To avoid the hassle of trying to find parking, take a convenient shuttle bus from designated areas. The shuttle is free and runs from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Shuttle bus parking can be found at Fluidmaster (30800 Rancho Viejo Road) and the Capistrano Business Plaza (30250 Rancho Viejo Road).

The shuttle bus will drop off at the corner of El Horno and La Matanza Streets, which is a quick walk to downtown.

Visitors may also take the Metrolink to the San Juan Capistrano station to avoid parking. Walking from the station to downtown is just one traffic light.

6

San Juan resident and Community Activist Miss Fiesta for the 2023 Swallows Day Parade

DANIELE SMITH

Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2024 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

7

SWALLOWS DAY

EVENTS THE MERCADO STREET FAIRE

Before the parade kicks off, check out the Mercado Street Faire, located on El Camino Real between Forster and Old Mission Road, for a little taste of everything. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the event, Kid Zone in the Historic Town Center Park, hosts vendors with food, a wide variety of shopping, including Western wear, and even country music. Along with vendors, there is a family entertainment and kid’s play zone.

THE SWALLOWS DAY PARADE Saturday’s main event, the eventful and colorful parade, kicks off at 11 a.m. and will be followed by awards at 2 p.m., in the Historic Town Center Park during the Mercado Street Faire. The long-lasting tradition, the parade’s non-motorized form features horse-drawn floats, carriages, wagons, plenty of music and demonstrations headed through downtown.

Stay in San Juan Capistrano and Enjoy the Town After the Parade As the festivities come to a close, that does not mean the fun has to stop in the growing town of San Juan Capistrano. There are plenty of things to do and enjoy in the blooming downtown, including restaurants, antique shops, and even some quiet spots around town like Los Rios Park. And, of course, there’s Mission San Juan Capistrano for a quick history lesson, or Swallow’s Inn to close out the day with adult beverages and Western music.

8

Congratulations!

San Juan Capistrano & SJC Fiesta Association in Celebrating the 64th Swallows Day Parade!

The O’Neill - Moiso - Avery Family and all friends at Rancho Mission Viejo 9

2

GRAND MARSH 4 2 A 0

PAST HONOREES

L

MATT GAFFNEY

T

his year’s grand marshal is a lifelong San Juan Capistrano resident and a well-known contributor to many of the city’s significant developments. Leading the 64th annual Swallows Day Parade will be Matt Gaffney.

Missing only one Swallows Day Parade — in 1971 due to his two-year stint in the Navy during the Vietnam War — Gaffney has been marching in the parade since its founding years. He participated as a Boy Scout, or a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3801 and American Legion Post 721, for which he was a twotime post commander.

When he was a child, he helped his father organize the Swallows Day Parade and other notable city happenings. His participation in the parade runs deep.

Gaffney, who owes his love of San Juan Capistrano to his father, carried the Division 1 banner in 1963. He was involved in crowd control as a Cub Scout in Pack Thirteen Den One and a Boy Scout in Troop 176. He was the first Boy Scout in San Juan Capistrano to attain the Ad Altare Dei Catholic award.

Gaffney has spent much of his life giving back to the community, on various town boards and commissions since 1986; as a San Juan Capistrano Historical Society member since 1993 and a board member from 2003 onward; as a chair and

vice chair of the traffic and transportation commission between 1986 and 1992.

Some would say his most significant effort came as a member of the Open Space Committee from its inception in 2006 to 2010. The group secured the passage of Measure Y, which reserved open space for San Juan Capistrano residents. They built four parks in a year and a half — against the odds — including his favorite project, Reata Park off of Ortega Highway.

Outside of his work with the city, Gaffney coached girls softball and boys football at Mission Parish School while his daughter, Laura, was a student. He won three championships in four years for football and is proud to have taught so many great kids throughout his time coaching.

While coaching, he co-founded the Mission School Booster Club and participated in as much as he could throughout his time at the school.

While doing all this, Gaffney attended Saddleback College to earn an insurance license to open Matt Gaffney Insurance in 1976.

Joining Gaffney for the parade on the float will be his wife, daughter, son-in-law, two grandkids, brother, and sister-in-law.

He looks forward to his family gathering to celebrate the city’s legacy.

THE PARADE’S FIRST GRAND MARSHALS WERE BARBARA STANWYCK, A POPULAR AWARD-WINNING ACTRESS, AND AUDIE MURPHY, ONE OF THE MOST DECORATED AMERICAN COMBAT SOLDIERS OF WORLD WAR II. 10

YEAR GRAND MARSHALS 1960 Barbara Stanwyck, Audie Murphy 1961 Scotty Clayson 1962 John Rovick (Sheriff John) 1963 Buddy Ebsen (actor) 1964 Claude Akins (actor) 1965 Monty Montana (actor) 1966 James Drury (The Virginian) 1967 Gary Vinson 1968 Richard Arlen (actor) 1969 George Putnam with Special Guest: President Richard M. Nixon 1970 Buck Taylor (actor) 1971 Roberta Lynn (Champagne Lady) 1972 Bill Skiles, Pete Henderson, Jimmy Rogers 1973 Andy Devine (actor) 1974 Jeanette Nolan (Dirty Sally) 1975 Brad Gates (OC Sheriff) 1976 Monty Montana (actor) 1977 Jock Mahoney (actor) 1978 Iron Eyes Cody (actor) 1979 Richard O’Neill, Alice Avery 1980 Leon René 1981 Pat O’Malley (actor) 1982 C. Fulton Shaw 1983 Tony Moiso 1984 Brian Goodell (Olympic gold medalist) 1985 Monsignor Paul Martin 1986 Carl Bucheim (San Juan’s first mayor) 1987 Dan Haggerty (actor) 1988 Todd Hart 1989 Rusty Richards (actor/horse trainer) 1990 Peter Sherayko (actor) 1991 Shelley Taylor Morgan (actress) 1992 Larry Bucheim 1993 Tony Forster 1994 Teeter Marie Oliveras Romero 1995 Gilbert G. Aguirre 1996 George Avila 1997 Bill and Pat Bathgate 1998 John and Marie Lacouague 1999 Elarion M. “Larry” Hernandez 2000 Joan Irvine Smith 2001 Melvin M. Rosenbaum 2002 Bill Webb, Julian Ramos, Pat Forster, Tom Hribar, William Zintl 2003 Monsignor Paul Martin 2004 Paul and Betty Valenzuela 2005 Shigeru “Shig” and Miyeko Kinoshita 2006 Gary and Collene Campbell 2007 Millie and Gil Jones 2008 Kay Shaw 2009 Melitas Forster 2010 Wyatt Hart 2011 Arturo and Maria Galindo 2012 Bill and Joan Cvengros 2013 Joe Soto 2014 Jim Curwood 2015 Ricardo Beas 2016 Sam Allevato 2017 Steve Nordeck 2018 Steve Oedekirk 2019 Silvia Mazzeo Pule 2020-22 Scott and Diana Schmitt 2023 Robert Ridland

WE HAVE

A PLACE FOR YOU At Fairmont San Juan Capistrano, we view each student as unique, so we prioritize a personalized approach to their learning. Low student-to-teacher ratios, coupled with differentiated instruction, allow our gifted and caring teachers to meet students right where they are — academically, socially, and emotionally. We invite you to visit our campus and learn what the gift of a Fairmont education could mean in the life of your child.

OPEN HOUSE

MARCH 21 5:30 - 7:30 PM

RSVP TODAY

1953-2023

Serving Preschool - 12th Grade

FairmontSchools.com/SJC | (714) 984-0289 11

THROUGH THE YEARS:

A LOOK BACK AT PARADE DAY The Swallows Day Parade has been a staple of San Juan Capistrano for decades … but what exactly did those events look like? The San Juan Capistrano Historical Society provided a glimpse into the past and celebrations gone by.

Kathrine Dana Shaw Remembered Publicist, Philanthropist and a Driving Force Behind the Swallows Day Parade

O

By Jan Siegel

n January 8, 2024, South Orange County lost an amazing citizen. Kathrine “Kay” Dana Shaw passed away at the age of 102. To say that her life was well-lived is an understate-

she leased. There, she produced and performed in plays and also did publicity for Old MacDonald’s farm, a petting zoo on the Knott’s property. It was managed by C. Fulton Shaw.

The rest, as they say, is history.

The Shaws were married in 1959. Shaw owned a ranch in San Juan Capistrano that became their home. They were involved in many business and community organizations including the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, the SJC Fiesta Association, and the Women’s Club, as well as several religious and political organizations. In 1960, Fulton Shaw joined with four other local residents – Reginald Erickson, Henry Stewart, Carl Buckheim and Larry Buckheim – to incorporate the city of San Juan Capistrano, according to Pam Gibson’s book, Two Hundred Years in San Juan Capistrano. In 1961, the township of San Juan Capistrano became a city.

Shaw also wanted to bring business to San Juan Capistrano and came up with the idea for the non-motorized aspect of the Swallows Day Parade. Kay did the publicity. She said that she worked the hardest to get marching bands into the parade, because she really liked marching bands. It also was Kay’s idea to bring in TV and motion picture cowboy stars as grand marshals to gain more publicity for the parade.

ment.

Her mother had instilled in her the dedication that Richard Henry Dana Jr. had done in his life by helping unfortunate sailors. She was the oldest surviving relative of Dana, the city of Dana Point’s namesake. Kay’s mother also encouraged her to become a writer like Dana, but Shaw’s life took other twists and turns.

Born in Mesa, Arizona, on April 28, 1921, Kay was raised in poverty following the untimely death of her deputy sheriff father, vowing to help her mother and siblings. She moved with her mother to California when she was young, and after the death of her mother, she was fortunate to be adopted by an uncle, Ilif Ross Dana, who not only encouraged her to study and learn but gave her a sense of faith.

In her early 20s, she decided to pursue a career in acting and started Catherine Coleman’s Charm School, an etiquette school, later going to work for Knott’s Berry Farm, where she became a publicity writer and put on plays at the Bird Cage Theatre that 12

LIVE MUSIC

Five Generations of the Most Authentic Mexican Cuisine

Wed / Thurs / Sun Starts at 5:30 pm

32082 Camino Capistrano San Juan Capistrano 92675 949-493-4941 ricabuenocatering@gmail.com RICARDO’S PLACE RESTAURANT

RicardosPlaceSJC.com

Tuesday to Friday 11am to 9pm • Saturday & Sunday 9am to 9pm • Monday Closed 13

MS. FIESTA

JENNIFER POINTER and

SEÑOR SAN JUAN

F

TONY POINTER

or the 64th annual Fiesta de las Golondrinas season, Jennifer and Tony Pointer stand as honored representatives of the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association, showcasing their dedication to community service and involvement.

“We’ve been part of the Fiesta Association for around five years,” Tony remarked. “However, my involvement with the parade dates back to my arrival in San Juan in 1977, whether as a participant with the Cub Scouts, the Capistrano Valley High School marching band, or later on when I served with the Orange County Fire Authority as a volunteer first responder. I’ve only missed being a spectator for the parade once, the year our daughter was born.”

Tony’s involvement in and around San Juan Capistrano is extensive. He has led safety efforts for the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association’s emergency and volunteer response and has been a member of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) since 2002 as an instructor and board member. Professionally, he works as the Orange County Fire Watch manager for the Irvine Ranch Conservancy, focusing on pre-wildfire prevention and volunteer management.

Jennifer has also dedicated herself to the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association for approximately five years, assuming the role of treasurer this year. Her participation in the Swallows

Day Parade spans various organizations, including the Girl Scouts, Laguna Beach High School marching band, and others. Like Tony, Jennifer is deeply committed to volunteerism, having contributed to San Juan Elementary, Girl Scouts, Sea Scouts, Elks Lodge, and as a CERT member since 2003. Jennifer works as a marketing communications specialist for Epson in Los Alamitos.

“We just don’t know how not to volunteer,” Jennifer said. They delight in exploring the ever-changing downtown, indulging in new restaurant experiences, and attending community theater performances. “We love the various offerings of our town, whether it’s enjoying drinks or dinner with friends at restaurants or wineries,” Tony added. “There’s always so much to see and do while wandering around.”

Voted Orange County’s #1 Golf Course

by O.C. Register 2022 Lighted Driving Range Open until 10:00pm Sports Bar Open for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Live Music Every Weekend One of Orange County’s Top Wedding Locations Host Your Special Event or Golf Tournament

JOIN THE IN-CLUB Receive the BEST rates and discounts throughout the year!

32120 San Juan Creek Road | San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 | www.SanJuanHillsGolf.com 14

BAD TO THE BONE BBQ

live music happy hour & LUNCH Specials full bar with 25 craft beers FULL-SERVICE CATERING • banquets • weddings • event center

15

� ,.., ... :1 .... fJ+ The 64th Annual Swallows Day

��.���_Breakfast

March 23, 2024 o,oo a.m. to 10,00 a.m.

! ummy

Y

fr--

FULL BREAKFAST Pancakes, Sausage, Scrambled Eggs

--------·/i

�

BEHIND THE SIDE GATE AT THE ROTARY SCOUT HUT 31372 La Matanza St, SJC

Rotary.

A Fundra,ser Sponsored by The Rotary Club of San Juan Capistrano

1'

I

Shuttle Parking FLUIDMASTER and Pickup 30800 Rancho Viejo Rd.

Free Shuttle • Runs 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

PLAZA CAPISTRA BUSINESS PARK

30200 Rancho Viejo

RANCHO VI

� �

LA CALERA ST.

[!I

Shuttle Rotary Pancake Breakfast Drop-off LA MATANZA AND Pickup

iJ

���

(949) 627-0061 LA ZANJA

Equestrian Awards

EL HORNO ST.

DON JUAN AVE.

27131 Calle Arroyo, Suite 1722 San Juan Capistrano, 92675

Staging Area

EL CAMINO REAL Library

SOCCER FIELD

ACJACHEMA ST.

I�L

Donation – Adults $8 Kids $5 (under 12)

II SWALLOWS DAY SATURDAY, MARCH 23

TENNIS COURTS

MISSION SAN J CAPISTRAN

PARADE END

H

THERE’S MORE THAN JUST THE PARADE AND FAIRE El Presidenté Ball (6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, March 9) El Adobe de Capistrano 31891 Camino Capistrano The SJC Fiesta Association celebrates San Juan Capistrano’s beginnings when horses and wagons were the main way of travel. The Old West celebration is supported with food, music and costume contests throughout the night. Attendees will get a small taste of what the parade has to offer later in the month.

16

Fiesta Grandé (6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday, March 20) Swallow’s Inn 31786 Camino Capistrano Another night filled with true Wild West fun takes place at the Swallow’s Inn. Contests with categories such as Best Outlaw, Best Dressed Western Man and Woman, and Best Belt Buckle are set for the night, along with entertainment. It’s sure to give patrons a night not to be forgotten.

MAP & EVENTS

o Rd.

IEJO RD.

ORTEGA HWY.

ANO K

I-5 FWY BOARDING | DAY CARE | GROOMING | TRAINING LIMOUSINE PICK UP & DELIVERY SERVICE

VOTED BEST PET CARE/GROOMING 9 YEARS IN A ROW! Ask about our new/recurring client discounts!

DE HTC PARK: Lost & Found

www.thezuripetspa.com

Voted Be st

PO BIS LO

SPRING ST.

Orange County SkinLab

Walking Group & Band Awards

Dermatology & Dermatopathology 31899 Del Obispo St., #130 San Juan Capistrano 949.359.6400 www.ocskinlab.com dermatology@ocskinlab.com

Playhouse MERCADO

Swallow’s Inn

Heritage Barbecue

VIP PORCH

FORSTER ST.

PARADE START

El Adobe

CAMINO CAPISTRANO

In the days leading up to the big day, the SJC Fiesta Association hosts numerous fun activities to celebrate and get the community excited to have a good time.

Hoos’Gow Day (9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, March 22) The streets of San Juan Capistrano On this day, it might be best to wear some sort of Western adornment otherwise you might end up in “jail” by a costumed SJC Fiesta Association-appointed “sheriff ” and “deputies.” They will roam the streets to find those who are deemed to be “city slickers,” in need of time in the Hoos’Gow, or any clean-shaven man. Jail sentences are short for those who can make “bail” by donation to the SJC Fiesta

Of SJC

Spot Dr. Hure before the parade passing out free sunscreen!

SJC Fiesta Association Command Post

YORBA ST.

JUAN NO

28452 Airoso Street, Rancho Mission Viejo 32423 Calle Perfecto, San Juan Capistrano

Association.

Frog Jumping Contest (4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, March 22) Los Rios Park 31831 Los Rios Street The annual SJC Fiesta Association’s family-friendly frog jumping contest means entertainment and prizes—and a possible sighting of Mark Twain, who will tell patrons about the original frog-jumping contest in Calaveras County.

17

JUNIOR DIGNITARIES

NATALIE CORREA MORALES and

T

BENJAMIN BROOKS

he 2024 youth representatives for the Swallows Day Parade are fifth graders from San Juan Elementary School.

Natalie Correa Morales enjoys her math classes because there is so much to learn in that subject. She admits to loving a good game of tag with her friends during recess — but not with all the rain this year. Natalie adores soccer; she plays defense for her team.

This isn’t Natalie’s first time being in the parade. As a third-grade student, she marched with her karate team, and returned with her fourth-grade class the following year. She is very excited to return this year as Junior Miss Fiesta, and talk with everyone in the crowd, and help represent San Juan Capistrano.

Benjamin Brooks loves his history classes and learning about the country’s evolution. He is quite a sports fan. Benjamin golfs with his father, plays outfield or third base in baseball, and serves as a point guard in basketball. He also deeply loves his two retriever mix dogs, about which he learned more through a DNA test last summer.

For Benjamin, Junior Señor San Juan, this is his first time in the Swallows Day Parade. But he is excited to dress up in the uniform with his parents, who are a part of the SJC Fiesta Association, and see his older sister and brother in the crowd.

TEEN AMBASSADOR

SAVANNAH ERCA

T

he title of “Teen Ambassador” is making its debut at the 64th annual Swallows Day Parade.

Savannah Erca, a 15-year-old sophomore at San Clemente High School, is honored to be the first Teen Ambassador.

“It was very exciting to hear that I was named Teen Ambassador.

This is the first year having it, so I’m excited to be the first person to take that position,” she said.

Savannah’s mother, Michelle, the SJC Fiesta Association’s 1st Vice President and Mercado Chair, introduced her daughter to the Swallows Day Parade. Savannah has helped with setup and running a kids’ concession booth in the Mercado Street Faire Savannah, who enjoys her math classes and hanging out with her friends, was chosen as Teen Ambassador thanks to her experience on parade day.

“I’ve never formally been in the Swallows Day Parade, but I’ve been working with the (SJC) Fiesta Association for around seven years,” Savannah said. “I love being able to hang out with my mom and help set up the Mercado in the morning and help any way I can throughout the day. It’s a lot of fun.”

18

A CONNECTED At JSerra, we foster a dynamic community where students are empowered to cultivate meaningful connections through retreats, service projects, mission trips, and diverse outreach initiatives. This foundational aspect of our educational philosophy plays a pivotal role in instilling virtues of compassion and generosity, guiding our college-bound students towards a wellrounded and values-driven future.

SCAN TO LEARN MORE!

#LionNation

JSerra Catholic High School 26351 Junipero Serra Road San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 949.493.9307 admissions@jserra.org

FAITH INTELLECT CHARACTER 19

We are proud to support the

2024 Swallows Day Parade Join us.

Online & Mobile Banking | Checking & Savings Accounts CDs & IRAs | Home Loans

Terms and Conditions apply. All Loans subject to credit approval. NMLS #537388. Member FDIC. 20

Proud Sponsor of the 64th Annual SWALLOWS DAY PARADE

CEFALI & CEFALI, APC • INJURY ATTORNEYS •

INTEGRITY | EMPATHY | ADVOCACY WE HAVE RECOVERED MILLIONS OF DOLLARS FOR OUR CLIENTS.

CEFALI & CEFALI, APC 27130 Paseo Espada, Ste 521, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 P: (877) 4-CEFALI E: info@callcefali.com F: (949) 203-3332

#1 Builders Supply Store in Orange County

Celebrating 48 Years of Service

Anyone interested in joining the SJC Fiesta Association is welcome to become a member and contribute to the history of San Juan Capistrano.

Visit swallowsdayparade.org for more information.

COME VISIT OUR NEW SHOWROOM! 34276 Doheny Park Rd. • Capistrano Beach • 949.240.3585 • DohenySupply.com

21

ABOUT THE

SJC FIESTA ASSOCIATION The San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to producing the Swallows Day Parade and related events.

We could not succeed without the support of our community, our sponsors, donors and, of course, our volunteers!

The Swallows Day Parade is 100 percent community-funded. We pay for the parade through sponsorships, donations, fundraising and merchandise sales.

If you would like to make a donation to help fund the 64th annual Swallows Day Parade, please visit our website and click on the DONATE link.

If you would like to join our mailing list, please visit our website or scan the QR code.

Thank You!

www.SwallowsDayParade.org

22

2024 KIDS’ PET PARADE GIVING FAMILIES A CHANCE TO SHOW UNIQUE ANIMALS

The Scooby Doo Mystery Machine featuring a cat, a banana split dog, and a singular bird were all part of the festivities featured at the 2024 Kids’ Pet Parade that took place on Saturday, February 24, at Los Ríos Park. The annual showcase organized by the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association leading up to the Swallows Day Parade gives a chance for kids and families to show off their favorite animals.

Taste of San Juan KICKS OFF FIESTA CELEBRATION

In between rainstorms, more than 200 food aficionados gathered at San Juan Hills Golf Club on Thursday, Feb. 1, for the 30th annual Taste of San Juan, kicking off the Fiesta de las Golondrinas and 2024 Swallows Day Parade festivities.

San Juan Capistrano’s finest restaurants, pubs and wineries showcased their signature culinary offerings and competed for recognition in various categories.

The winners, as voted by those who sampled all of the local delicacies: Favorite Overall Restaurant, winner of the Swallows Cup: Five Vines Wine Bar. Favorite Appetizer: 1st place – Ellie’s Table (Pork Belly Bao); Honorable mention – Five Vines Wine Bar (Roasted Poblano Veggie Chowder).

PET PARADE WINNERS TEAM COSTUME

Favorite Main Dish: 1st place – Rancho Capistrano Winery (Filet Mignon); Honorable mention – Five Vines Wine Bar (Grilled Flat Iron Steak over Root Vegetable Mash Topped with a Creamy Bourbon Sauce).

BIRD Sammy (Ellie Mussleman)

Favorite Original Dish: 1st place – Ellie’s Table (Pork Belly Bao); Honorable mention – Ysidora Restaurant & Lounge, Inn at the Mission (Adobo Braised Short Rib with Cilantro Mashed Potatoes and Pasilla Sauce).

KID AT HEART Kelly Hammond from Love Bug Rescue with her dog Lucia

Favorite Dessert: 1st place – Rancho Capistrano Winery (Whiskey Bundt Cake); Honorable Mention – Bad to the Bone BBQ (Salted Caramel Pecan Bread Pudding).

Dog Max (Vincent Diaz Isela and Franco Diaz)

EXOTIC PET Rabbit named Honey Bunny (Zoe Reyes) DOMESTIC PET Dog Marshall (Elise Helsel)

Participating restaurants: Acai Republic, Bad to the Bone BBQ, Basil Brazil Cuisine, Campesino Cafe @ The Ecology Center, El Adobe de Capistrano, El Zarandeado Restaurant, Ellie’s Table, Farm Fresh Home Foods, Five Vines Wine Bar, Hennessey’s Tavern, Heritage BBQ, La Michoacana Ice Cream, Nothing Bundt Cakes (San Clemente), Paddy’s Station, Parmiss Restaurant, Rancho Capistrano Winery, SJH Sports Bar & Grill, Sol Agave, Sundried Tomato American Bistro, Tavern at the Mission, Thai Juan On, Trevor’s at the Tracks and Ysidora Restaurant & Lounge (Inn at the Mission).

The event was sponsored by F&M Bank, RRM Design Group and Cefali & Cefali Personal Injury Attorneys. Live music was performed by the Doo-Wah Riders.

23

THE HISTORY OF THE

SWALLOWS DAY PARADE

D

ating back to the 1950s, the Swallows Day Parade has evolved from a school carnival in the 1930s to the signature event of San Juan Capistrano’s friendly and charming vibe. It’s also historically important.

A small and passionate group of residents came together in 1958, first as a committee to the San Juan Capistrano Businesses Council, the predecessor of the San Juan Chamber of Commerce.

Original events consisted of an equestrian parade, a trail ride and a Western dance. Activities have come and gone, but the parade is still an enduring feature central to the revelry and celebration. The parade remains historic, as it is one of the nation’s largest non-motorized parades and draws interest worldwide.

Given the growth of the activity schedule, the importance of a single organization to oversee the events became clear — hence, the volunteer group was dubbed the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association in 1987.

Other civic organizations have since linked with the SJC Fiesta Association, giving rise to the monthlong Fiesta de las Golondrinas, or Festival of the Swallows.

The SJC Fiesta Association also pays tribute to the city’s Spanish, American Western, and Juaneño Indian heritage

through the seasonal events, in addition to heralding the return of the swallows.

The SJC Fiesta Association is also integral in welcoming new residents to San Juan Capistrano, as the area continues growing. Through volunteer opportunities and promoting the town’s legacy, transplants and longtime residents develop a keen sense of pride for living in this pretty and tight-knit South Orange County community.

The city solidified the SJC Fiesta Association’s importance to the community in 1995 by proclaiming it the lead coordination organization, with approval rights, for all Fiesta de las Golondrinas events.

The parade was not held in 2020 or 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic — the event’s only postponements. When the parade returned in 2022, it had no horses, due to an equine brain virus outbreak, and instead allowed motorized vehicles for the first and only time. The year 2023 saw the return of the horses.

Anyone interested in joining the SJC Fiesta Association is welcome to become a member and contribute to the history of San Juan Capistrano. Visit swallowsdayparade.org for more information.

24

S T. M A R G A R E T ’ S E P I S C O PA L S C H O O L OUR

EVERYDAY IS COMMUNITY

Welcome Home Swallows!

St. Margaret’s Episcopal School is a proud presenting sponsor of the Swallows Day Parade. Guided by our mission to educate the hearts and minds of young people for lives of learning, leadership and service, we seek meaningful ways to serve and contribute to our community. St. Margaret’s also hosts Special Camp, a summer camp program for children with disabilities, and Breakthrough San Juan Capistrano, an academic enrichment and college-prep program.

St. Margaret’s is proud to call historic and vibrant San Juan Capistrano home for more than 40 years.

31641 La Novia, San Juan Capistrano, California 92675 • 949.661.0108 • smes.org • Founded in 1979 25

PARADE ENTRIES

American Legion Post 721 Angie Waian (Wayne), Mar Greet fan North Star Ballet Folklorico de San Juan Capistrano Ballet Folklorico Donaji Barstow High School Marching Aztec Band & Color Guard Black Belt Tae Kwon Do Academy Bootleggers BUY MY BIKES Inc. California Highway Patrol Capistrano Area California Republic Leadership Academy Canine Companions Capistrano Valley Christian School Circle D Ranch of the Disneyland Resort Citizens’ Climate Education City of San Juan Capistrano City of San Juan Capistrano Sister City Capestrano Italy

Code of the West College and Career Advantage College Ready Del Obispo Elementary School Desert Mirage HS “Mighty Scarlet Regiment” Ram Band & Pageantry Edward B Cole Sr. Academy Elsinore High School Air Force Junior ROTC Fundacion Esencia de Morelos USA and El Carnaval Morelense USA Girl Scout Troop 1476 Grupo Folklorico Alebrijes Homefront America Hula Connection J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center JSerra Catholic High School Adaptive Athletics / T3Tennis.net Juaneño Band of Mission Indians Blas Aguilar Adobe

26

Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation Kylee Isbell riding “Little Bear” Las Vaqueras Laura’s House Marco Forster Middle School Merced County Sheriff Posse Mike Ahumada - Realtor/Remax Select One Mini Madness Miniature Therapy Horses & Cows Mission Basilica Royal Court Mission Basilica School Swallows Nest Mission Basilica School Walkers and Cheerleaders Mission San Juan Capistrano Mormon Battalion Moulton Family Foundation, Inc., DBA: MOULTON MUSEUM Oaks Middle School Eagle Pride Marching Band OCACA College Prep Orange County Fire Authority “Steamer” Parade Team Orange County Head Start, Inc. Padre Junipero Serra Riders Rancho Jalisco Redwood Middle School Viking Band Ricardo’s Place Restaurant San Bernardino County Sheriffs Mounted Equestrian Volunteers San Clemente Island Chapter, the Daughters of the American Revolution San Gabriel High School Matador Marching Band San Juan Capistrano Docent Society San Juan Elementary San Juan Hills High School SJC Youth Advisory Board, Inc. Soldiers of the Cross Sussman Middle School Marching Band Team Taiwan Temecula Cowgirls The Hole in the Wall Gang The Opsons Valley Center Vaqueros Victorian Roses Ladies Riding Society

St. Anne School

www.st-anne.org | @stanneknights 32451 Bear Brand Road, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 | Phone: 949-371-9932

An Independent Catholic School in Laguna Niguel

ROOTED IN COMMUNITY STRENGTHENED BY FAITH INSPIRED BY POSSIBILITY

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2024-2025 SCHOOL YEAR PRESCHOOL-GRADE 8 | WWW.ST-ANNE.ORG/APPLY

Learn more about St. Anne School

SWALLOWS DAY PARADE CELEBRATION march 23rd 10am-4:30pm

**food and beverage available for purchase at Ysidora Restaurant www.innatthemissionsjc.com | @Innatthemissionsjc 26907 old mission road, san juan capistrano, ca 92675 | 949.503.5700 27

scan to purchase tickets on eventbrite.com

Taco Bell Parade Announcer Dotti Smith and Actor/ Producer Gary McCarver

San Juan Capistrano Mission Singers Tisha Bellantuoni and William Crisp

PARADE

ANNOUNCERS

In-N-Out OC Talk Radio’s Dawn Kamber Radio personality Garrison West O’Reilly Auto Parts Comedians Suzette Masters and Ron Ruhman

Chase Bank Parade All Stars Landi Morgan and Kirk Morgan

The Stand Producer Jonathan Jenkins and actor Mark Schwartz

Parmiss Mediterranean Restaurant Comedians Tom Riehl and Vince Harper

National Anthem Singers William Crisp Tisha Bellantuoni Sydney Noelle Haik David Blair Chandra Nu Power Maria Elana Banks Jan Chandran Vicki Boone

VIP Pavilion Rancho Mission Viejo Spokesperson Charlie Ware and The Capistrano Dispatch Founder Jonathan Volzke Swallow’s Inn and TV SJC Fiesta Association members Leanna Bradshaw and Jim Taylor

L’Hirondelle Radio personality David Mason and Parade Announcer Sergio Prince El Maquey Spanish announcers Christina Sepe and Silvia Mazzeo Pule Taqueros Spanish Announcers TBA

“Be A Good Citizen in the Community” was one of our Founder’s seven goals for a successful business. For over 60 years, Fluidmaster has embraced the responsibility of making the communities we work and live in a better place by offering support through financial contributions, in-kind donations and volunteering.

For more details from the #1 Toilet Brand in the World, visit Fluidmaster.com for more details!

Boys & Girls Club of Capistrano Valley

Habitat for Humanity Relay for Life 28

29

2024

SPONSORS

PRESENTING SPONSOR St. Margaret’s Episcopal School

FIESTA DE LAS GOLONDRINAS

PARADE SPONSOR

Farmers & Merchant Bank

Almquist Development + Investment

FIESTA GRANDE SPONSOR RRM Design Boot Barn Leone Family

MARCHING BAND SPONSOR

VIP PAVILION SPONSORS

Ganahl Lumber

The Toll Roads Nielsen Family Stroscher Ranch

KIDS’ PET PARADE

TASTE OF SAN JUAN SPONSOR Cefali and Cefali RRM Design

DIVISION SPONSORS J Serra Catholic High School Rancho Mission Viejo Fluidmaster Inn at the Mission St. Anne School

MERCADO Doheny Builders Supply Cefali and Cefali

FROG JUMPING CONTEST Chick-fil-A

TELEVISION SPONSOR Santa Margarita Water District

MEDIA SPONSOR The Capistrano Dispatch

SPECIAL THANK YOU TO City of San Juan Capistrano CR&R Environmental Services Ed Stewart and Associates Metrolink

Cefali and Cefali Stroscher Ranch

30

31

Proud Sponsors of the 64th Annual SWALLOWS DAY PARADE

CEFALI & CEFALI, APC

• INJURY ATTORNEYS •

INTEGRITY | EMPATHY | ADVOCACY WE HAVE RECOVERED MILLIONS OF DOLLARS FOR OUR CLIENTS.

Cefali & Cefali is a husband and wife team of attorneys.

We are always available to speak with our clients, and are ready to aggressively litigate any claim. We handle complex personal injuries against insurance companies, individuals, Cities, Counties and the State. No case is too big or too small for our office. If you call our office, you will be connected with one of us, guaranteed.

CEFALI & CEFALI, APC 27130 Paseo Espada, Ste 521, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

P: (877) 4-CEFALI E: info@callcefali.com F: (949) 203-3332