Tamborrada of San Sebastián 2025 in Basque Country

Each year, on January 20, the city of San Sebastián, located in Spain’s Basque Country, hosts the Tamborrada festival in honor of its patron saint. The festival is known for its 24-hour drum parades that fill the streets with rhythmic beats and vibrant energy. Originating in the 19th century, this cherished tradition continues to captivate locals and visitors alike, showcasing a deep connection to the city’s history and cultural identity.

Drum Parade and Festivities

The Tamborrada begins at midnight on January 20 in the Plaza de la Constitución, where the city’s flag is raised to the accompaniment of drumming by Sociedad Gaztelubide, a local gastronomic society. The festival sees more than 150 drumming groups, each dressed in distinct uniforms representing various historical military units or local trades. These groups, often sponsored by different organizations, parade through the streets for 24 hours, playing melodies composed by Raimundo Sarriegui, a 19th-century San Sebastián native.

Each drumming group consists of around 20-50 drummers, accompanied by brass bands and barrel players. Some participants wear soldier-like uniforms, reminiscent of the War of Independence, while others dress as cooks, symbolizing the city’s historical ties to the culinary arts.

Program and Schedule

As the festival unfolds, events follow a structured timeline. The opening ceremony, featuring the raising of the city flag, takes place at midnight on January 19. At noon on January 20, the Children's Tamborrada takes over in Alderdi Eder Park, where young participants proudly showcase their drumming skills. The festival reaches its conclusion at midnight on January 20, when Unión Artesana lowers the flag, signaling the end of the celebrations.

Throughout the day, visitors can expect the streets to be filled with the sounds of drums, and roads are closed in the city center. As organizers note, the event is a highlight of the year for the city’s residents, so attendees should be prepared for large crowds.

Tickets and Parking

While the Tamborrada is free to attend, finding accommodation and parking can be challenging due to the popularity of the event. Organizers suggest using public transportation as the city center is closed to traffic during the festivities. If traveling by car, it is recommended to park outside the city and use shuttle services or public transit to reach the event.

Location

San Sebastián is easily accessible from major cities like Bilbao, which is approximately 62 miles (100 km) away. For those wanting to extend their stay, the city's renowned culinary scene and picturesque beaches provide additional attractions beyond the festival.

History and Evolution

The Tamborrada dates back to 1836, originally part of San Sebastián’s carnival celebrations. According to historical accounts, the festival’s early years saw locals mock the daily marches of soldiers stationed in the city by mimicking their drumming. Over time, this playful act evolved into a formalized parade, becoming an integral part of San Sebastián’s patron saint's day.

As the tradition developed, uniforms worn by participants began to reflect the military attire of the era, particularly those of the Gipuzkoan battalions who fought in the War of Independence. In 1861, composer Raimundo Sarriegui wrote several iconic pieces that now form the core musical repertoire of the Tamborrada, including the "San Sebastián March" and "Diana."

Over the years, the festival has grown in scale and inclusivity. Initially, participation was limited to men; women were first allowed to join in 1980. Today, the majority of the drumming groups are mixed, highlighting the festival's embrace of gender equality and community spirit.