San Sebastián Jazz Festival, known as Jazzaldia, is one of the city’s leading summer music events. Over several days in July, concerts take place by the sea, in historic squares, clubs and major venues, with something for both dedicated jazz fans and first-time listeners.
Dates, artists and venues change every year. Check the official programme before planning your visit, but use this guide to understand the festival and choose how to experience it.
What is Jazzaldia?
Jazzaldia began as a specialist festival and gradually welcomed more styles without losing its connection to jazz. A single edition may include international artists, new talent, local projects and free outdoor concerts.
The programme is usually spread across the Kursaal Centre, Plaza de la Trinidad, clubs, terraces and outdoor stages. This gives the festival a close relationship with everyday life in San Sebastián.
Venues worth knowing
- Plaza de la Trinidad: an intimate venue in the Old Town, especially atmospheric for evening concerts.
- Kursaal Auditorium: suited to major productions and headline artists.
- Outdoor stages: Zurriola Beach and other coastal locations offer relaxed concerts with open views.
- Clubs and smaller rooms: a chance to discover emerging artists and keep listening after the main shows.
How to choose your concerts
You do not need to see everything. Read the programme by day, combine a ticketed concert with a free performance and leave time to move between venues. Plaza de la Trinidad often fills up early when interest is high.
If jazz is new to you, start with an outdoor concert or an artist whose music feels familiar. Jazzaldia also includes soul, funk, blues and related styles, offering several easy ways in.
Jazz and the city
One of the best ways to enjoy Jazzaldia is to connect music with a walk. Follow La Concha Bay before a concert, have dinner in the Old Town or head to Zurriola afterwards.
During the festival, the atmosphere spreads through the streets and local venues. Check access information when crowds or traffic restrictions affect the centre.
Practical tips
- Check the official programme, schedules and ticket information for each edition.
- Book popular concerts early.
- Bring a light layer for evening performances by the sea.
- Plan to walk or use public transport between venues.
- Book accommodation ahead if you are visiting in July.
Jazzaldia works for a single night of music or for several days of exploring the programme. For more ideas, see our guide to culture and festivals in San Sebastián and our guide to getting around the city.