Arrival of Olentzero in Donostia-San Sebastián 2025: Schedules, Route, Parade, and Complete Activities

The arrival of Olentzero in Donostia-San Sebastián on December 24, 2025, is one of the most anticipated events of Christmas in the Basque Country. This mythological character, the Basque equivalent of Santa Claus, brings gifts and joy to children, accompanied by Mari Domingi.

In this article, we detail everything you need to know about schedules, routes, activities, and tips to enjoy this celebration, based on official and updated information. If you are searching for “Olentzero Donostia 2025” or “Olentzero arrival San Sebastián,” here you will find a complete guide to position yourself in the top Google searches, optimized with useful, structured, and high-quality content, aligned with the latest algorithm updates like the Helpful Content Update, which prioritize user experience, expertise, and trustworthiness.

Who is Olentzero? A Brief History and Meaning

Olentzero is a mythological Basque charcoal burner who descends from the mountains to deliver gifts on the night of December 24. According to tradition, he lives in the mountains and represents the winter solstice, symbolizing rebirth and the arrival of the new year. Mari Domingi, his companion, joins him in modern celebrations. This figure has evolved from a pagan character to a Christmas icon, promoting values such as solidarity and Basque culture. In Donostia-San Sebastián, the tradition dates back decades, with parades attracting thousands of families every year. Official sources highlight his role in preserving the Basque cultural identity.

Full Day Program: Schedules and Activities

On December 24, 2025, Olentzero and Mari Domingi will have a day packed with activities in Donostia. The program includes neighborhood visits in the morning, a central arrival at noon, a city tour, letter reception in the afternoon, and the grand night parade. Below is a detailed breakdown:

• Neighborhood and School Visits (Early Morning): Organized by local associations, these visits allow for close interactions in different areas of the city. Schedules vary by neighborhood, focusing on ikastolas (Basque schools) and cultural centers. Starting December 22, they visit neighborhoods in collaboration with neighborhood associations, ikastolas, and cultural groups.

Here is a table with confirmed schedules for neighborhood visits:

• Main Arrival and Neighborhood Tour (Noon): At 12:00, Olentzero and Mari Domingi arrive at Constitution Plaza (Konstituzio Plaza), where they greet the children. Then, they begin a tour in a vintage convertible car through half a dozen neighborhoods. Children over 6 years old can join on bicycles, preferably dressed as baserritarras (traditional Basque costume) and with Christmas accessories. The route, accompanied by the Galtzagorri group and woodchoppers, is as follows: Plaza Constitución, Portua, Nagusi, Hernani, Askatasunaren Hiribidea, Urbieta, Mendeurrenaren Plaza, Sancho el Sabio, Pio XII, Madrid, Aita Donostia Plaza, Zorroaga, Loiola Zeharbidea, Antzieta Pasealekua, Kristobaldegi, Arteleku Plaza, Felisa Martin Bravo, Concha Chaos, Antzieta Pasealekua, Sierra de Aralar, Urbia, Loiola Zeharbidea, Zorroaga Pas., Toribio Alzaga, Irun Plaza, Felipe IV, Eustasio Amilibia, Madrid Hiribidea, Zuaznabar, Bizkaia Pas., Gernikako Arbola, Foruak, Argentinar Errepublika, Erregina Erregeorde, Boulevard, Hernani, Alderdieder. They return to the City Hall around 13:15 to wave from the terrace and central balcony. At the end, participants receive broth or hot chocolate.

• Letter Reception (Afternoon): From 15:30 to 17:30 in the Plenary Hall of the City Hall (Udalbatza Aretoan). Children can deliver letters or drawings personally. The queue forms on the Alderdi Eder terrace, closing access at 17:10. There is space to prepare letters on-site. Members of Gero Axular assist with baserritarra costumes (scarves, sandals, sashes). Olentzero and Mari Domingi distribute candies or coal. Special access for children with functional disabilities via Calle Ijentea (with one adult). Sign language interpreter available for the deaf. Mailboxes for letters are available at various points in the city before the event, such as the City Hall lobby, cultural centers (kultur etxeas), and local shops.

• Night Parade (Evening): The grand parade begins at 18:00 from Calle Ijentea. Route: Hernani, Askatasunaren Hiribidea, Loiola, San Martzial, Getaria, Txurruka, Gipuzkoa Plaza, Elkano, Boulevard. It includes 16 groups with mythological characters (lamias, Mari, Tartalo, Otsoko, Sorgina) and Christmas elements. Nearly 500 people participate, and over 1,000 kg of gluten-free candies are thrown (courtesy of BM Supermarkets). The float of Olentzero and Mari Domingi closes the parade.

donostiakultura.eus Olentzero and Mari Domingi – San Sebastián, city of culture

Tips for Enjoying the Event

• Accessibility and Safety: The event is inclusive, with measures for disabilities. Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially at Constitution Plaza and the parade.
• Weather and Preparation: Check the forecast; if it rains, there might be adjustments. Dress children in warm clothes and Basque-themed attire for an immersive experience.
• Transport: The parade affects bus lines (check Ekialdebus). Use public transport or bicycles.
• Updates: Follow official accounts like @DonostiakoUdala or @Ayto_SS on X for real-time news.

This guide is based on data from primary sources such as the Donostia City Council and local media, ensuring accuracy and utility. If you plan to attend, enjoy the Basque magic of Olentzero in San Sebastián 2025!

Summary Table of Key Schedules

For more historical or cultural information, visit sites like Donostia Kultura or Euskadi.eus.

Author: Descubre Donostia