Semana Grande in San Sebastian: Donostia’s Ultimate Fiesta

San Sebastian, the food capital of Spain, transforms from a serene beach town into a bustling summer party during Semana Grande. This “Great Week” is anything but low-key, turning the city into a vibrant hub of celebration. 

If you’re seeking a quiet escape, steer clear. But if you crave a whirlwind of activities, food, and fun, Semana Grande in San Sebastian should be at the top of your travel list.

What is Semana Grande?

Semana Grande Donostiarra, or Aste Nagusia in Basque, translates to San Sebastian’s Great Week. Known as one of the city’s most renowned festivals, it draws countless visitors eager to join in on the fun.

This week-long fiesta takes place every August, starting on a Saturday and wrapping up the following weekend. The celebration always includes August 15, the Feast of the Assumption, a key event in the city’s cultural calendar. The dates shift each year, so be sure to check them before you plan your visit.

Experiencing Semana Grande in San Sebastian

Semana Grande is a bucket-list event for tourists and a cherished annual highlight for locals. 

Families gather to celebrate with diners at the gastronomic society followed by spectacular fireworks over La Concha beach. Here’s a taste of what to expect.

Start with a bang

The festival kicks off with a ceremonial cannon firing in Alderdi Eder Gardens by the City Hall at around 7 p.m. on the first night. 

This explosive start sets the tone for a week filled with high-energy fun and festivities with family and friends.

Concerts

After hosting an annual jazz festival every July, San Sebastian cranks up the volume once again in Semana Grande. From the port to Sagües, stages burst with everything from traditional Basque melodies to punk rock and orchestral performances. 

Whether you’re a fan of live bands or DJ sets, there’s something to keep your toes tapping throughout the week.

Sports

The Basques are a sporty bunch, and even the excitement of Semana Grande doesn’t keep them from their favorite athletic pursuits. From beach volleyball and handball to the thrilling herri-kirolak (Basque rural sports) competitions, there’s something for every sports enthusiast. Watch as competitors chop wood at lightning speed or heft massive stones in feats of strength.

Being people of the sea (the Basques were not just fishermen but whale hunters), they host a thrilling swim race across 16 km (9 nautical miles) from the coastal village of Getaria to San Sebastian.

Insider Tip:

• Check with the tourist office on the Boulevard in Old Town for sailing activities and cruises.

Food

The food scene is always a highlight in San Sebastian.

Apart from your traditional pintxos route, Semana Grande brings you tasty food trucks lined up by the Kursaal and an annual Paella competition in Plaza Cataluña.

San Sebastian’s must-experience Semana Grande events and activities

Semana Grande is packed with must-see events and activities. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss.

International Fireworks Competition

Nations from across the globe light up the night sky in a dazzling fireworks competition. Each night at 10:45pm, a different country (or city) puts on their best light show, with the winner announced at the end of the week. Make sure to catch the displays and pick your favorite.

Insider Tip:

• Experience the fireworks from different viewpoints. Try La Concha beach, the pathway on Mount Urgull (perched right above the port), and Palacio Miramar.
• Be sure to save your spot early. Bring snacks and drinks, too.

Rides and games along Paseo Nuevo

Traveling with kids or just a kid at heart?

Stroll along Paseo Nuevo, the scenic street between Old Town and the Atlantic Ocean, to find thrilling rides and games. It’s a great spot for a bit of light-hearted fun.

The Pirate Race to Isla Santa Clara

Cheer for modern day pirates during the unconventional boat race to Isla Santa Clara. Locals build makeshift rafts from discarded materials and pray it all holds together from the port to the island and then to La Concha Beach. 

It’s a unique event many local kuadrillas look forward to–just don’t expect a peaceful morning at the beach; it will be packed.

Charangas, Gigantes, Cabezudos, and more

Don’t be caught off guard by these lively surprises filling the festive streets:

• Charangas are roaming brass bands often trailed by joyful locals dancing to their infectious beats.
• Gigantes, giant puppets towering over the crowd, parade and twirl through the streets, delighting spectators of all ages.
• Cabezudos, with their comically oversized heads, add a whimsical touch to the festivities. But watch out for their playful antics as they might whack you with an air-filled bag.
• Encierro de toros de fuego is an adrenaline-pumping event where 6 makeshift bulls carried by locals race through the streets, showering sparks and fireworks.
• A txosna is a temporary bar or food stall set up during local events, particularly in the Basque Country, often managed by community groups and manned by volunteers.

5 Insider tips for enjoying San Sebastian during Semana Grande

• Choose accommodation wisely:  For a quieter night’s sleep and to escape the constant festivities, consider staying in neighborhoods like the Center or Gros–barrios that are not Old Town but still closeby. (Both Gros and El Centro have must-try classic pintxos bars, too)
• Prepare for crowds: During Semana Grande, San Sebastian’s Old Town buzzes with tournaments, concerts, and partygoers. With so many people around, be vigilant about your belongings.
• Make reservations: Many restaurants accept reservations, so book in advance to ensure you enjoy San Sebastian’s culinary delights without the long wait.
• Check the activity schedule: While the schedule is available online, it’s usually written in Spanish and Basque. Visit the tourism office on the Boulevard in Old Town for an English copy, or ask staff to help with translation if needed.
• Explore beyond San Sebastian: If you need a break from the hustle and bustle, visit nearby towns like Hondarribia and Getaria, or cross the border to charming French destinations like Saint Jean de Luz or Biarritz for a change of pace.

Semana Grande around Spain

Semana Grande extends beyond San Sebastian to other Basque cities with their own unique traditions. In Bilbao, the 9-day Aste Nagusia kicks off with vibrant fireworks and features Marijaia, a jolly figure with raised arms who has symbolized the festival since 1978.

In Vitoria, the celebration, known as Las Fiestas de La Blanca, begins with the dramatic descent of Celedón, a giant puppet representing a traditional Alavese villager. Meanwhile, beyond the Basque Country, cities like Santander and Gijón also host their own festive variations of Semana Grande.

Fiestas around Spain

Traveling through Spain, you’ll quickly catch the infectious zest for life, food, and good company that defines the culture.

Here are more Spanish festivals you may want to add to your travel bucket list:

• San Fermín: Famous for the running of the bulls in Pamplona.
• Fallas de Valencia: A fiery festival with enormous effigies and fireworks.
• Feria de Abril in Seville: A week-long celebration with flamenco, food, and festivities.
• La Tomatina de Buñol: The world’s largest tomato fight.
• Haro Wine Festival: Celebrates winemaking in La Rioja with a batalla del vino or red wine battle.

Up north in the elegant city of Donostia-San Sebastian, festivals like Semana Grande offer tourists a memorable vacation while giving locals the perfect way to celebrate the warm summer months before they prepare for yet another cold and rainy winter.

Update Notice: This post was updated on August 12, 2024.