San Sebastian in September: Our Favorite Activities & Events

Unlike in the south of Spain, where temperatures still feel quite summery until October, San Sebastian in September actually takes on a magical fall feeling as autumn draws near.

Aside from a bit of rain, the weather is mostly pleasant and ideal for walking around town sightseeing. Plus, it’s the perfect month to experience both traditional Basque culture and internationally renowned events (we’ll get to those in a bit).

If you’re visiting San Sebastian in September, here’s what should be on your agenda.

A group of people visiting San Sebastian in September.
Enjoy San Sebastian during the magical month of September.

Enjoy world-class cinema at the San Sebastian International Film Festival

Every year, cinephiles from near and far descend on San Sebastian to attend the city’s most cosmopolitan event.

The San Sebastian International Film Festival showcases household names, up-and-coming stars, and everything in between. Each edition of the festival promises to be better than ever as dozens of films from all over the world compete for the prestigious Golden Shell. 

If you’ll be in San Sebastian in September, you won’t want to miss this.

People sitting inside a movie theater participating in the Sebastian International Film Festival.
Become one of the critics and participate in the San Sebastian International Film Festival. Photo credit: Krists Luhaers

Dance the night away at Donostia Festibala

Want to experience the biggest and best creative arts festival in San Sebastian in September? Look no further than Donostia Festibala.

This massive event brings together music lovers along with some of the biggest names gracing stages on an international level. The best part? 

There’s truly something for everyone at this event. Musical styles range from hip-hop to trap to flamenco and so much more, all packed into one wild, lively weekend that will help create memories to last a lifetime.

A rock band playing on a stage at Donostia Festibala.
No matter what type of music you’re into, Donostia Festibala is for you. Photo credit: DONOSTIA KULTURA

Discover local culture at Euskal Jaiak

Here in San Sebastian, many locals are fiercely proud of their Basque identity. If you’d like to learn what that’s all about, there’s no better time or place than San Sebastian in September.

Euskal Jaiak, or the Basque Festival, consists of an entire week full of exciting regattas, Basque sporting competitions, cultural events, and plenty of free-flowing cider. 

As you find yourself surrounded by locals in traditional dress and the beautiful sounds of Basque music, you’ll start to gain a better understanding of what makes this fascinating culture so special.

People dancing to traditional Basque music.
Basque culture has rich history and traditions. Photo credit: Donostia San Sebastián Turismoa

Catch some waves at Zurriola Beach

Surf’s up! San Sebastian’s Zurriola Beach is home to some of the best waves in Spain. And if you’re visiting San Sebastian in September, you’re just in time to ride the best of them.

As the weather starts to get chillier, the waves get bigger and more consistent, so early fall is prime time for surfers. Never set foot on a board before but want to see what it’s all about? 

There are plenty of great surf schools based in the nearby Gros neighborhood where you’ll be able to learn everything you need to know about surfing in San Sebastian.

surfer catching a wave surfing in San Sebastian
If you’re wondering where the best surfing in San Sebastian is, we got you covered. Photo credit: Austin Neill

Enjoy a pintxos crawl

If we’re being honest, there’s no wrong time of year to come to San Sebastian for the food. As the unofficial foodie capital of Europe, it’s home to fresh, seasonal dishes of the highest quality all year round. 

From rustic Basque home cooking to innovative Michelin-starred fare, you can’t go wrong with anything you eat here.

If you’re visiting San Sebastian in September, you’ll find that it’s an especially perfect time of year for a pintxos crawl. Evenings are neither too hot nor too chilly, and bars aren’t as crowded with tourists as they can get in the summer months.

woman grabbing a pintxo
Heading out for pintxos is a great September activity.

Update Notice: This post was updated on September 20, 2024.

 

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