San Sebastian in February? You might expect grey skies and dramatic waves crashing against the Paseo Nuevo, but from February 12th to 17th, 2026, the city undergoes a radical transformation. Forget the serious “foodie” etiquette and the reserved Basque character for a moment; it’s time for feathers, glitter, and unadulterated joy.
The Carnival of San Sebastian 2026 is here. If you thought the Tamborrada in January was the only time the city marched to a beat, think again. With the Caldereros (Boiler Makers) festival having just passed yesterday (Feb 7th), the city is already warming up. This year is set to be legendary, with the main Saturday parade landing on Valentine’s Day, promising a unique blend of romance, humor, and satire in the costumes.
At Descubre Donostia, we have crafted this extensive guide so you can navigate the festivities like a local: from the crucial role of God Momo to the best spots for watching the parades and the seasonal treats you simply must try.
The Heart of the Party: The Figure of God Momo
You cannot understand the Donostia Carnival without meeting its supreme ruler: God Momo. While other cities might crown beauty queens or kings based on aesthetics, San Sebastian bows down to the personification of mockery, satire, and temporary madness.
Who is Momo?
In mythology, Momus (Momo) was the Greek god of satire and mockery. In San Sebastian, he is the central figure of the week. During the festivities, the Mayor symbolically hands over the keys to the city to Momo, who becomes the highest authority. Under his rule, social norms are suspended, and having fun is mandatory.
The Momo of 2026
For 2026, the honor of portraying this character falls—as tradition dictates—upon a distinguished member of one of the city’s veteran comparsas (carnival troupes). Being chosen as Momo is a immense honor for a local. It’s not just about wearing a spectacular costume; it’s about leading the masses, presiding over the parades, and having the license to poke fun at everything, especially local politics and current events.
Accompanied by a colorful entourage of jesters and musicians, his arrival on Fat Thursday marks the official start of the madness.
A Bit of History: From Prohibition to Splendor
To truly appreciate the 2026 Carnival, a little context helps. The San Sebastian Carnival has deep roots going back to the 19th century, known then as a “Venetian-style” carnival when the city was the summer playground for European royalty.
However, the festival suffered greatly during the Franco dictatorship, when it was banned and could only be celebrated discreetly as “Spring Festivals.” It wasn’t until 1978 that the Carnival reclaimed its name and freedom, driven by the Centre for Attraction and Tourism and, crucially, by the local Sociedades Gastronómicas (Gastronomic Societies).
Today, what you will witness is a perfect fusion: the recovery of history—with troupes mimicking those from 1900—blended with the modern flair of large dance schools preparing elaborate choreographies all year round.
Dates and Agenda: The 2026 Schedule
This year, the calendar brings us a mid-February Carnival. Make sure to block out these dates:
- February 12: Fat Thursday (Jueves Gordo) – Arrival of Momo.
- February 13: Thin Friday (Viernes Flaco) – Presentation of Troupes.
- February 14: Carnival Saturday – The Big Day (and Valentine’s!).
- February 15: Carnival Sunday – Family Day.
- February 16 & 17: Carnival Monday & Tuesday – The Finale.
Detailed Day-by-Day Program
While the official program is packed with events, here are the absolute essentials for a visitor:
Fat Thursday (Feb 12): The Awakening
- 19:00 – Arrival of God Momo: The character parades through the streets, usually from Plaza de la Constitución to the City Hall (or vice versa). This is the moment for the opening speech (pregón), loaded with local humor.
- 20:00 – Txarangas in the Old Town: After the speech, brass bands (txarangas) take over the Old Town, accompanying the liveliest pintxo-pote of the year.
Thin Friday (Feb 13): The Showcase
- 21:00 – Presentation at Illunbe (Donostia Arena): Think of this as the “Gala” of the Carnival. Thousands attend to see the premiere of the costumes and dances that the troupes have kept secret. It is a massive light and sound spectacle. Note: Tickets are required and usually sell out fast.
Regular Saturday (Feb 14): The Explosion of Color
- 17:01 – Grand Carnival Parade: The main event. Over 25 troupes, thousands of dancers, and giant floats wind through the city center. Why 17:01? Because in Donostia, we like to be precise!
- 18:30 – Historical Troupes: While the modern parade takes over the wide avenues, the traditional troupes (Gardeners, Boiler Makers, Roosters) parade through Calle Mayor and Plaza de la Constitución. It’s a beautiful contrast: Sarriegui’s classical music and period costumes versus the Latin beats of the main parade.
Carnival Sunday (Feb 15): Tradition & Family
- 09:00 – Diana: The city wakes up to music (a struggle for those who partied late).
- 17:01 – Second Parade: The Saturday route is repeated. This is perfect for families or if you preferred to hit the bars on Saturday evening. The vibe is more relaxed.
Carnival Tuesday (Feb 17): The Farewell
- 19:30 – Burial of the Sardine: A hilarious funeral procession moves through the center. “Mourners” (often men dressed as widows) wail dramatically. It all ends at the Boulevard with the burning of a giant papier-mâché sardine, symbolizing purification and the end of the winter festivities.
The Official Route: Where to Watch?
The main parades on Saturday and Sunday afternoon follow a closed urban circuit. Here is the layout and our strategic advice for the best views.
The 2026 Circuit: Starts at Boulevard → Calle Hernani → Avenida de la Libertad → Calle Urbieta → Calle Prim → Calle Bergara → Calle Idiáquez → Plaza Gipuzkoa → Calle Legazpi → Ends at the Boulevard.
Best Spots for Spectators
- Avenida de la Libertad: The widest avenue in the city. If you get a front-row spot here, you’ll get a panoramic view of the choreography. The large floats maneuver best here.
- Calle Prim: Narrower and lined with trees, offering a more intimate atmosphere. You can feel the energy of the dancers and the vibration of the music.
- Plaza Gipuzkoa: A stunning setting with the gardens and the Provincial Council palace in the background. Photos taken here look spectacular.
- The Boulevard: Ideal for seeing the floats stationary just before the start (around 16:30) to appreciate the details of the costumes.
Carnival Gastronomy: The Taste of the Party
In San Sebastian, no celebration is complete without food. Carnival coincides with Cider Season (Txotx), but it also has its own sweet traditions.
- Torrijas de Carnaval: Similar to French toast but richer, creamier, and often soaked in milk or wine with cinnamon. Unlike the rest of Spain, which eats them at Easter, here they are the star of February. Find them at classic bakeries like Otaegui or Aramendia.
- Txistorra and Talos: Around the Plaza de la Constitución, you’ll find stalls serving talos (corn tortillas) with txistorra sausage—the perfect fuel to fight the February chill.
- The Cider House Escape: It’s a tradition for groups of friends to head to a cider house in Astigarraga or Hernani (15 mins from Donostia) for lunch on Saturday. After a menu of cod omelet and T-bone steak, they head back to town “fully charged” for the parade.
Practical Guide for the International Visitor
1. Weather: The Unpredictable Companion
February in the Basque Country is a roll of the dice. Temperatures usually range between 8°C and 12°C (46°F – 53°F).
- Tip: If you plan to wear a costume, think “layers.” Thermal wear underneath your outfit is the local secret. Bring a sturdy umbrella or a clear rain poncho so you don’t hide your costume if it drizzles.
2. Transport & Parking (Crucial)
During the parades (Saturday and Sunday from approx. 16:30 to 20:30), the city center is on lockdown for cars.
- Public Transport (Topo/Euskotren): The best option. The Amara station or the Centro-La Concha stops drop you right in the action without the parking headache.
- Parking: If you are driving, do not attempt to park in the center (Boulevard, La Concha). Aim for peripheral parking lots like Illunbe (which often has a shuttle) or the Bus Station parking.
3. Accommodation
If you want to sleep peacefully, the neighborhoods of Gros (near Zurriola Beach) or El Antiguo (near Ondarreta Beach) are excellent choices. They are walkable or a short bus ride away from the party, but far enough from the all-night noise of the Old Town.
Why is Carnival 2026 Special?
This year, a wind of renewal is blowing through the festival. After years of promoting neighborhood carnivals, 2026 sees total integration. Troupes from neighborhoods like Altza or Intxaurrondo will have a stronger presence in the city center.
Furthermore, sustainability has joined the party. Many troupes have signed a pledge to use recycled materials in their floats and more energy-efficient sound systems, proving that Donostia remains at the forefront of green events.
Come and Join In!
The San Sebastian Carnival is not a spectacle to watch passively; it is an invitation to joy. Whether you follow God Momo, dance to a brass band on Calle Fermín Calbetón, or marvel at the feathers on the Avenida, you will leave with unforgettable memories.
Ready to discover the wilder side of San Sebastian? Do you want our list of the best Pintxo Bars for a post-parade feast? Leave us a comment below, and we’ll guide you to the best spots in the Old Town.
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