Kicking Off Summer in Santa Ana Culture, Community, At the Courthouse

What a perfect way to kick off summer! The Spring Into Summer festival at the Old Orange County Courthouse in downtown Santa Ana was a vibrant blend of music, history, and community pride. Thanks to the incredible support of Orange County Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento, the event brought cultural celebration into a historic setting an opportunity for residents to connect with each other and with local heritage.

Supervisor Sarmiento, who was instrumental in bringing this free celebration to life, emphasized how key it is to revitalize public spaces. Through his leadership, community focused events like this are becoming a regular feature at the courthouse, enabling more residents to take pride in local landmarks and participate in civic life. His efforts mark a clear intention to promote inclusive cultural programming and foster stronger ties between residents and their local government.

The Old Orange County Courthouse dates back to 1901. Built in a striking Romanesque Revival style from granite and Arizona sandstone, it served as the center of county government including courtrooms and even a jail until 1969. In the early 1980s, it underwent extensive renovations to preserve its historic character, reopening in 1992 as a museum and civic gathering place. Today, the courthouse hosts interpretive programs, museum exhibits, and even civil wedding ceremonies remaining open to the public for free tours.

This year’s celebration, welcoming families from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., featured a lineup of engaging activities like hands on craft stations, paleontology exhibits, and sketching sessions. Visitors had a chance to explore the “Backyard Kingdom” exhibit highlighting local ecosystems and wildlife, while live performances by The Como La Flor Band (a Selena tribute) and the Yari Moré Latin Band energized the crowd. The atmosphere was electric filled with laughter, dancing, and a real sense of belonging.

Honoring Selena was one of the most memorable moments of the day. The Como La Flor Band beautifully celebrated her legacy, reminding everyone why her music remains timeless. People from all walks of life gathered in the courtyard, singing together in a shared cultural experience that transcended age, language, and background. It was a beautiful moment of unity and joy.

Supervisor Sarmiento’s broader vision is rooted in civic inclusion. By reviving the courthouse as a hub for cultural festivals, educational programming, and public gatherings, he’s reinforcing the importance of place in shaping community. These events do more than entertain they foster participation, promote dialogue, and create lasting connections. Community begins with participation. Whether it’s attending a local event, exploring a city landmark, or volunteering just a few hours a month your presence matters. When we show up for our neighborhoods, we shape the direction they grow.

Next time you're in downtown Santa Ana, take advantage of the free guided and self guided tours at the Old Orange County Courthouse. It's a fantastic way to learn about the legal, architectural, and civic history of Orange County and a great conversation starter for kids or young learners curious about how local government works.

As summer continues, we look forward to more experiences like this where history meets celebration, and where every moment shared becomes a building block for a stronger community.