The Tamborrada of San Sebastián: what it is and how to experience it

San Sebastian

Gabriela Peris October 28, 2026

Every January 20th, San Sebastián is filled with drums and barrels to celebrate the Tamborrada, one of the most emblematic festivals in the Basque Country.

If you're thinking of visiting the city, I'll tell you what the Tamborrada of San Sebastián is, what its most special moments are, and how to enjoy this unique celebration.

What is the Tamborrada of San Sebastián?

The Tamborrada of San Sebastián is a traditional festival celebrated on January 20th, for 24 hours, in which companies of drummers and barrel players parade through the city.

Year after year, more than 150 groups take to the streets of San Sebastián to the rhythm of drums and barrels. Behind each one is a cultural, gastronomic, sporting, or charitable association, and all have something that makes them unique: their uniforms, their routes, and their own band.

When is the Tamborrada of San Sebastián celebrated?

The Tamborrada takes place every year on January 20th. The celebration begins at midnight with the raising of the flag and ends with its lowering at midnight.

Where to see the Tamborrada of San Sebastián

These are the best places to see the Tamborrada:

1. Constitution Square : This is the heart of the festivities. There you can experience the raising and lowering of the flag in a very exciting atmosphere. I recommend arriving early.
2. The Old Town : the perfect place to experience the atmosphere of San Sebastián. It's the ideal area to combine the parades with a pintxo crawl.
3. The neighborhoods of San Sebastián : this is the place for you if you prefer to avoid the crowds. I recommend checking the bus company schedules .

Origin of the Tamborrada of San Sebastián

Although no one knows exactly when it all began, the first references to the Tamborrada date back to around 1830. What is known is that it originated to celebrate the festivities of Saint Sebastian, the city's patron saint.

One of the most widespread explanations links its evolution to the popular and carnival celebrations of the time. Over time, the parades incorporated uniforms inspired by the military and traditional clothing of cooks and water carriers. Participation has also evolved into a popular celebration in which people of different ages and backgrounds take to the streets.

Main events of the Tamborrada of San Sebastián

I'll tell you about the key moments you can't miss on this very special day in San Sebastián.

The raising of the flag

The raising of the flag is the first act and marks the beginning of the Tamborrada. It takes place on January 20th in the Plaza de la Constitución at midnight .

One of the most anticipated moments is hearing the March of San Sebastián, composed by Raimundo Sarriegi, which fills the square with emotion and marks the beginning of 24 hours of music and celebration.

The Children's Drum Parade

The parade starts at 12:00 noon in the Alderdi Eder gardens, opposite the City Hall, and travels through the main streets of San Sebastián. If you're traveling with children, you can't miss it because they'll love it.

The most special thing is seeing how the little ones keep alive a tradition that is passed down from generation to generation, with their uniforms, their instruments and an enthusiasm that is contagious to everyone who comes to enjoy the parade.

You can check the schedules and updated information on the official website of the Children's Drum Parade .

The lowering of the flag and the end of the festivities

After 24 hours of music and celebration, the people of San Sebastián gather again at midnight in the Plaza de la Constitución. The mayor of San Sebastián lowers the city's flag to the sound of the March of San Sebastián once more. This marks the end of the Tamborrada until next year.

How to get to San Sebastián to experience the Tamborrada?

You can arrive by train, bus, or plane, with connections varying depending on your city of origin. Driving is a good option if you want to combine the festival with a trip to the Basque Country, as you can leave it parked during the Tamborrada and retrieve it later to explore the coast.

How to get to San Sebastián by car

The city is well-connected by road and can be accessed from various points in Spain via the AP-8 and A-1 motorways, depending on your starting point. Keep in mind that some of these roads are toll roads, and this guide to tolls in Spain explains how they work. If you don't have your own vehicle, you can rent a car in San Sebastián with DoYouSpain and compare prices to find the option that best suits your trip.

Where to park and how to get around the city

On January 20th, it's best to leave your car parked and get around on foot. The parades take place in the city center and the Old Town throughout the day, and driving in that area is impractical.

A good option is to use the city's public parking facilities, such as Buen Pastor, La Concha, or Atotxa. Check their availability, rates, and any restrictions during the festivities in advance, and reserve a space if the parking facility allows it.

Once there, walking will be the best way to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Tamborrada, especially in the Old Town and its surroundings, where some of the most emblematic moments of the festival are concentrated.

Beyond the parades: pintxos, family plans and excursions

The Tamborrada is the perfect excuse to get lost in its streets, savor the essence of Basque cuisine, and discover a city that can be enjoyed at any pace, whether with family or on a longer getaway. Take note of these tips and get ready to experience San Sebastián like a local.

Where to eat pintxos and discover the gastronomy of San Sebastián

Going for pintxos is one of the best ways to experience San Sebastián's cuisine. Explore the Old Town and discover the city's traditional bars.

Here are some must-see bars during your visit to San Sebastián:

> San Sebastián in 3 Days: A Complete Guide to the City and the Local Area
• Bar Txepetxa : famous for its anchovy pintxos, ideal for discovering one of the classic specialties of the local cuisine.
• Ganbara : a good option to try seasonal products and mushroom specialties.
• Goiz-Argi : known for its prawn skewer with a distinctive sauce.
• La Viña : the perfect place to end the route with its famous cheesecake (my favorite without a doubt).

Tip : Pair your pintxos with a txakoli wine and remember that the secret is to go from bar to bar trying different pintxos.

What to keep in mind if you're traveling with children

Experiencing the Tamborrada as a family is a fantastic plan, as children enjoy this San Sebastián tradition. However, there are a few recommendations to keep in mind:

1. Choose where to watch the parades : look for wide open areas and avoid the most crowded spots.
2. Check the program of activities : review schedules and children's events.
3. Dress warmly : it's advisable to wear several layers, comfortable shoes, and waterproof clothing.

What to visit if you decide to stay longer

If you're staying longer, you have two options: explore San Sebastián in depth or travel along the Basque coast. The latter allows you to discover the maritime atmosphere of the coastal towns, and renting a car lets you do it at your own pace. There are two incredible routes from San Sebastián :

• To the west : Zarautz and Getaria.
• To the east : Pasaia and Hondarribia.

These are perfect routes for strolling through streets full of history and savoring the gastronomy along the Cantabrian coast.

Advantages of renting a car with DoYouSpain to visit San Sebastián and the Basque coast

The Tamborrada is best experienced on foot, but a car offers freedom before and after the festivities. With it, you can easily reach San Sebastián and, when the main day is over, continue on to the towns along the Basque coast without being tied to public transport schedules.

With DoYouSpain you can compare offers from different companies in one place and choose the one that best suits your trip. Before booking, check the final price, fuel policy, coverage, and pick-up and drop-off conditions.

This way you can enjoy the Tamborrada on foot and then plan a route tailored to your needs to discover San Sebastián and much more beyond its festivities.