Tamborrada San Sebastián 2027: 24 Hour Drum Festival on 20 January

Welcome to the Tamborrada 2027

Every year on 20 January, San Sebastián turns into one continuous sea of drumming for 24 uninterrupted hours. The Tamborrada is considered the strongest expression of Basque identity and is the city's most important festival, held in honor of its patron saint, Saint Sebastian. Recognized as intangible cultural heritage since 2018, it brings together more than 150 drumming groups (tamborradas) and over 20,000 participants, dressed as Napoleonic soldiers and cooks, marching through the old town to melodies composed by Raimundo Sarriegi.

Highlights

• Flag raising at midnight in Plaza de la Constitución by the Sociedad Gaztelubide
• 24 hours of nonstop drumming across the entire city
• Children's tamborrada at midday with around 50 school groups and over 8,000 children
• More than 150 drumming societies in historic uniforms
• Flag lowering at midnight by the Unión Artesana closing the celebration

Program

The festival begins exactly at midnight (the night of 19 to 20 January) in Plaza de la Constitución with the Izada de la Bandera; the Sociedad Gaztelubide raises the city flag to the sound of the Marcha de San Sebastián. Throughout the day, numerous adult drumming groups parade through the city's different neighborhoods. Around midday, the Tamborrada Infantil takes place: several thousand children march from the town hall along the main streets, accompanied by a large festive float. At midnight, the festival closes at the same Plaza de la Constitución with the Arriada de la Bandera, when the Unión Artesana lowers the flag to the city's anthem.

Tickets

The Tamborrada is a free street festival with no admission fee. For the central flag ceremonies in Plaza de la Constitución, arriving early is recommended, as the square fills up quickly. The city center is closed to car traffic throughout the day.

Visitor Tips

• Bring warm clothing and comfortable shoes, since the celebration takes place outdoors all day in often cold and wet January weather.
• Hotels in San Sebastián book up early for this weekend; reserve well in advance.
• Travel by bus or train, as the center is traffic restricted and parking is limited.
• For the midday children's parade, a spot along the old town's main streets offers the best view.
• Earplugs are worth bringing for sensitive ears, since the drumming continues at close range for hours.