Every spring, the last Sunday in April, friends of the Wildling Art Museum turn back the clock and relive what life must have been like 150 years ago on the old Spanish land grant ranches. They gather at a different ranch each year, away from civilization, to enjoy a tri-tip and tamale dinner, sip local wine and tap their toes to early California music.

The Fourth Annual Vivan Los Californios Barbecue Fiesta, a benefit for the Wildling Art Museum in Los Olivos, was held this year on April 30, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Rancho de los Potreros, off of Zaca Station Road. A new feature this year was a carriage driving demonstration. Also offered was a pre-barbecue nature hike lead by a local naturalist and round-trip bus transportation from Santa Barbara.

Guests were encouraged to come in Early California or Ranchero attire (with boots or close-toed shoes). Monie Photography was present to take vintage-era looking photographs. Music was provided by Tres Amigos, an acoustical group from Santa Maria.

An oil painting, Swale, Rancho de los Potreros, had been created by Meredith Abbott, a well-known plein-air artist and member of the OAK group. Abbott’s painting was auctioned off at the barbecue and signed posters featuring it were for sale.

There was also a raffle of ranch-related items.

The Wildling Art Museum would like to thank our Sponsors:

Comcast Cable

We would also like to thank the following people and businesses for their support:
Chumash Casino Los Padres Bank * Rusack Vineyards * Santa Ynez Valley Marriott * Valley Oaks Bank