3 January 2021 | DONOSTIA
Echoes of drums and joy: the Tamborrada, soul of Donostia
In the heart of Donostia, the Tamborrada resonates as an anthem of festivity and pride. Discover how this event not only celebrates the history and culture of San Sebastian, but also unites the community in a spectacle of music and passion that endures through time.
San Sebastian Children's Tamborrada
Every January 20th, the city of San Sebastian is transformed into a vibrant scene of tradition and joy. The Tamborrada of San Sebastian is the event that marks the Day of San Sebastian, a festivity that throbs in the soul of every San Sebastian and has captured the attention of the whole world.
The Tamborrada has its roots in the 1830s, an echo of wartime when the streets resounded with the marching of the troops. Today, this celebration has become an expression of identity and joy. At midnight, the Plaza de la Constitución fills with music with the Marcha de San Sebastián, kicking off 24 hours of uninterrupted festivities.
With more than 147 companies and 18,399 participants, the Tamborrada is an explosion of energy and color. Each group, with its Tambor Mayor, drums and barrels, performs the marches of Raimundo Sarriegui, while the cantineras, gastadores and abanderados bring their vitality to the fiesta.
The Tamborrada has transcended borders, becoming a global phenomenon that attracts visitors from all over the world. It is a unique opportunity to experience the culture and hospitality of Donostia.
Located just 4 minutes from the Plaza de la Constitución, Lasala Plaza Hotel is one of the best places to immerse yourself in the festivities. As a first class hotel in Donostia, it offers an unforgettable experience during San Sebastian Day. At Lasala Plaza, we live San Sebastian Day with passion. This year, in collaboration with the Unión Artesana, we have prepared a special surprise for our guests, which we will reveal soon, to share a piece of Donostia's history.
Children's Tamborrada in San Sebastian (credit: Diario Vasco)
The Children's Tamborrada is a magical moment where more than 5000 children from dozens of schools and ikastolas parade through the streets, keeping the tradition alive and ensuring its continuity.
When the clock strikes midnight again, the Unión Artesana takes the stage in the Plaza de la Constitución. With the final interpretation of the San Sebastian March and the lowering of the flag, the most significant day for the people of San Sebastian comes to an end.
It is time to tune drums and barrels, and to warm up voices to sing the hymn of joy:
‘Bagera…
Gu ere bai…
Gu beti pozez,
Beti alai!’
Here we are...
So are we...
Always happy...
always cheerful!'
The Tamborrada of Donostia is more than a party; it is a symbol of community and joy. For those looking for what to see in San Sebastian, this event is a must on the calendar. And for those fortunate enough to visit San Sebastian at this time of year, it is an experience to be carried in the heart forever.