Saint Sebastian celebrates its day with awards for excellence and civic engagement
On January 20, Saint Sebastian Day will be an event filled with recognition for culture, social commitment, and local history. This day, one of the city’s most emblematic, will be marked by the presentation of its most prestigious awards: the 2025 Golden Drum and the Civic Merit Medals. These honors not only celebrate individual and collective achievements but also strengthen Donostia’s cultural and social identity, highlighting the values of excellence, solidarity, and creativity that define its community.
Moriarti Produkzioak, Golden Drum 2025
The Donostia-based film production company, Moriarti Produkzioak, will receive the prestigious 2025 Golden Drum in recognition of its exceptional trajectory in national and international cinema. Since its founding in 2001, Moriarti has accumulated an impressive record of awards, including 12 Goya Awards, 31 nominations, and two candidacies to represent Spain at the Oscars. This distinction honors its relentless effort to bring Basque and universal stories to screens worldwide.
Among its most acclaimed productions are Handia, Loreak, and La trinchera infinita, films that have put Basque cinema on the international map. These works have been awarded not only for their artistic quality but also for their ability to connect with diverse audiences. Additionally, Moriarti has developed projects such as the series on Cristóbal Balenciaga, exploring the life of the iconic fashion designer, and the documentary Lucio, telling the fascinating story of the Basque anarchist Lucio Urtubia. The award will be presented in the City Hall’s plenary hall during a solemn ceremony bringing together key figures from the cultural and social worlds.
Civic Merit Medals 2025
The City Council has also recognized five individuals and entities with the Civic Merit Medal for their exceptional service to the community. These distinctions, to be presented on January 19, the eve of Saint Sebastian Day, highlight the selfless work and positive impact of the awardees on Donostia’s society. This year’s honorees are:
- Association Mestiza: For its work in promoting artistic and socio-cultural projects that reflect Donostia’s multicultural diversity. This association builds bridges between local and immigrant populations, fostering understanding and conviviality through multicultural activities that enrich the city’s life.
- Gipuzkoa Food Bank: For its commitment to combating food waste and supporting the most disadvantaged. Since its founding in 1997, this organization has been an essential pillar of solidarity in Gipuzkoa, distributing food and raising awareness of the importance of reducing waste.
- Contxu Uzkudun: Founder of the Basque fashion brand Minimil, a reference in sustainable fashion and women’s empowerment. Her career, which began in a small workshop in Ondarreta, has made her an inspiration for many women, distinguished by her creativity and commitment to equality.
- Iñaki Almandoz: President of the Askatuak Club, for his dedication to promoting basketball in Gipuzkoa for over three decades. Under his leadership, the club has become a benchmark for training young athletes, promoting values such as teamwork and effort.
- Radio San Sebastián: For its centenary as the city’s first radio station and its contribution to Donostia’s cultural and informational fabric. Its history, which began in 1925, is deeply intertwined with the city’s identity, serving as both a witness and narrator of its evolution.
A Saint Sebastian Day to Remember
The combination of these honors underscores the talent, dedication, and social impact that define Donostia. The Tamborrada, which will fill the streets with music and joy, will provide the perfect setting to celebrate these achievements, blending tradition and modernity in an unforgettable day for the city and its inhabitants. In addition to official ceremonies, the festive atmosphere will extend throughout the city, with tamborradas for children and adults symbolizing unity and community spirit. Without a doubt, this Saint Sebastian Day 2025 will be an occasion to remember and celebrate the legacy and future of this vibrant city.
