The Semana Grande Donosti

There is one week in August when thousands of people gather in the streets of San Sebastian, the streets are decorated and filled with outdoor stages to celebrate one thing: Semana Grande Donosti. This big week offers us the chance to celebrate both Basque history and traditions, as well as the joy and community celebration typical of this city.

In this article we will explain how it came about, its history, and the events you can expect if you decide to visit this festival, so if you want to know a little more about the Semana Grande de Donosti, read on.

History

The Semana Grande of San Sebastián, known in Basque as Aste Nagusia, is the most eagerly awaited festive event of the summer in San Sebastian. This festival is held annually during the week of 15 August, from Saturday to Saturday, coinciding with the feast of the Assumption of the Virgin, and has its roots in the 19th century. The origins of this celebration date back to the 1870s, when San Sebastian was beginning to become a renowned tourist destination.

The Semana Grande came about as a strategy designed to attract holidaymakers from the aristocracy and the upper middle class, who were already visiting the city for its famous beaches. It was José Arana, a bullfighting businessman, who in 1876 proposed organising a series of festive events to coincide with the bullfights that were already being held in the city. This proposal was enthusiastically received and, after several adjustments and trials, it was established permanently as the Semana Grande (Big Week).

The first official event of the Semana Grande is the ‘Cañonazo’, a cannon shot in the Alderdi Eder gardens, in front of the Town Hall, which marks the start of the festivities. This act is the one that starts the festivities, accompanied by the traditional song ‘Artillero’, one of the most awaited and emotional moments, gathering thousands of people every year.

Although bullfighting was the main event in its beginnings, over time, the Semana Grande has evolved and diversified its activities to adapt to the tastes and preferences of both locals and tourists, and today, the programme includes a wide range of shows and cultural, sporting and gastronomic activities.

Events

International fireworks competition

One of the most outstanding events of the Semana Grande is the International Fireworks Competition. This competition brings together the best pyrotechnics in the world, which light up the sky over San Sebastian every night with spectacular displays. The competition is fierce, and both the public and a specialised jury vote to determine the winner. The beaches of La Concha and Zurriola are the favourite places to enjoy this impressive spectacle.

Sports and competitions

Semana Grande is also famous for its sporting competitions. One of the most traditional events is the Paseo Nuevo Swimming Crossing, an endurance test that challenges swimmers to cover the distance between the beaches of Zurriola and La Concha. In addition, there are tournaments of herri-kirolak, the Basque rural sports, which include stone-lifting (harrijasotzaile), log-cutting (aizkolaris) and other challenges of strength and skill.

Parade of giants and big-heads

The parade of giants and big-headed figures is one of the favourite events for children. These giant figures, with papier-mâché heads, parade through the streets of San Sebastian. The big-headed figures usually carry inflated sacks which they use to ‘hit’ the spectators in a friendly way, adding a touch of humour to the celebration.

Gastronomic events

Gastronomy is a pillar of Basque culture, and during the Semana Grande, the culinary offerings multiply. From food trucks and local producers’ markets to cooking competitions such as the marmitako (a traditional fish stew) and the potato omelette competition, lovers of good food will find a true gastronomic paradise. In addition, many restaurants and gastronomic societies offer special menus and tastings that highlight the best of Basque cuisine.

Concerts and shows

Music and entertainment take centre stage throughout the week. The city is filled with stages where concerts of all musical genres are held, from rock and pop to classical music and jazz. The festive atmosphere extends late into the night, with performances for all audiences. Theatre and street performances also feature prominently in the programme.

Traditional events

Traditional events that pay tribute to Basque culture and folklore are not to be missed. The tamborradas, parades of drummers dressed in traditional costumes, echo through the streets, while the bertsolaris, improvising poets, delight the public with their verses in Basque. These activities, deeply rooted in Basque identity, offer an authentic and vibrant insight into local traditions.

Activities for children

The Semana Grande does not forget the little ones, offering a wide range of activities designed especially for them. Workshops, games, puppet shows and fairs are just some of the options that children can enjoy during these days of festivities. In addition, the parade of giants and big-heads and the fireworks are events that delight all ages.

Bullfighting fair

Although the importance of bullfighting has diminished compared to the early days of Semana Grande, the bullfighting fair is still an integral part of the programme of events. The bullfights are held in the Illumbe bullring and attract both local fans and tourists interested in this tradition.

San Sebastian’s Semana Grande is a celebration that combines tradition and modernity, offering something for everyone. From its opening with the Cañonazo to the closing with the impressive fireworks, each day is packed with activities and events that reflect the rich culture and festive spirit of this beautiful Basque city. Whether you are a music lover, a sports enthusiast, a passionate foodie or just someone who enjoys a good party atmosphere, Donosti’s Semana Grande has something special for you. Don’t miss it!