WHAT IS THE SEMANA GRANDE?

The Semana Grande always takes place the week of August 15, from Saturday to Saturday. During these days the entire city dresses up for a party and hundreds of activities take place that do not go unnoticed by anyone.

One of the most important elements of the Semana Grande is, without a doubt, the International Fireworks Competition, in which companies from various parts of the world participate. Music also usually occupies an important place in the festivities, both in the City Council’s programme and in Donostia Piratak.

The Semana Grande in San Sebastian arose in the mid-19th century as a need to entertain the elite tourists who then spent their summers in San Sebastian. The great spectacle at that time was the bullfights and the term “Semana Grande” arose as an advertising slogan for them. This spectacle was complemented by concerts by the music band and fireworks, inviting those who visited the city to sleep in the city if they wanted to see them. In this way, San Sebastian found a new type of tourism: short-stay, mass tourism.

This is how Semana Grande emerged as we know it today, combining popular events with high-quality aesthetics and culture. A true party that this year will have dozens of proposals to have a great time throughout the day. Children, young people and adults will have the option of taking an active part in the cultural and sporting activities that will be spread throughout the city.

And the musical offering will feature a wide variety of groups and orchestras for all types of audiences.

Source: Donostia Turismoa