Introduction
San Sebastián, known for its natural beauty and vibrant culture, dresses up every January 20 to celebrate the Tamborrada, one of the festivities most loved by its inhabitants. This event not only marks the day of the city’s patron saint, San Sebastián, but also represents a moment of unity, tradition and pride for the people of San Sebastián. The entire city becomes a sea of sounds and colors, where the rhythm of the drums resonates in every corner, enveloping locals and visitors in an atmosphere of joy and celebration.
La Tamborrada of San Sebastiánis not just a party, but a manifestation of the San Sebastian soul. From midnight, when the flag is raised in the Plaza de la Constitución, until the curtain falls at the end of the day, San Sebastián is transformed into a vibrant scene, where thousands of people participate in parades and performances that pay tribute to history and culture of the city. This day, all San Sebastian residents, regardless of their age, immerse themselves in a unique experience that combines tradition, music and a deep sense of community.
History of the San Sebastian Tamborrada
Origins in the 19th century
La Tamborrada has its origins in 1836, during the carnival period in San Sebastián. In its beginnings, the celebration consisted of a carnival parade in which participants dressed up and walked the streets playing drums and barrels. This first version of the Tamborrada was a spontaneous manifestation of joy and festive spirit, characteristic of the carnival celebrations of the time.
Transformation and formalization
Throughout the 19th century, the Tamborrada of San Sebastián gained popularity and became formalized as an important tradition of the city. During this period, the carnival costumes were replaced by military uniforms, inspired by the Gipuzkoa battalions that participated in the defense of the city during the Carlist wars. This change reflected an intention to honor the city’s defenders and strengthen local identity.
The role of Raimundo Sarriegui
A significant milestone in the history of the Tamborrada was the contribution of Raimundo Sarriegui, a composer from San Sebastian whose melodies became the soundtrack of the festival. Sarriegui composed several marches and musical pieces specifically for the Tamborrada, including “Marcha de San Sebastián”, “Iriyarena” and “Tatiago”, among others. These compositions have endured over time and continue to be performed during the parades, forming a central element of the celebration.
Consolidation in the 20th century
In the 20th century, the Tamborrada consolidated itself as the main festival of San Sebastián. The structure of the celebration was formalized with the creation of companies that parade through different parts of the city. Each company is made up of drums and barrels, accompanied by a music band, standard bearers and bartenders. This organization allowed the Tamborrada to grow in scale and scope, becoming an event that involves thousands of participants and attracts numerous spectators.
Development of the Party
The Raising of the Flag
The opening act of the Tamborrada is the raising of the flag of San Sebastián in the Plaza de la Constitución. At 12:00 a.m. on January 20, the flag flies high as the drums begin to beat. This solemn and emotional moment brings together local authorities, representatives of the drum companies and a crowd of San Sebastian residents and visitors eager to start the festivity. The square is filled with cheers and applause, and the atmosphere is charged with a festive energy that preludes the next 24 hours of celebration.
Parade of the Companies
After the hoisting, the 147 drum and barrel companies begin their tour through the streets of San Sebastián. Each company is made up of drummers, barrels, a music band, standard bearers and bartenders, all dressed in uniforms inspired by the old Gipuzkoan battalions. This parade is an example of organization and tradition, where each group follows a pre-established route that crosses various neighborhoods of the city.
The sound of drums and barrels, accompanied by Sarriegui’s melodies, becomes the soundtrack of San Sebastián during this day. The “March of San Sebastián” and “Iriyarena” are some of the most iconic pieces that are performed, creating a vibrant atmosphere full of emotion. The streets are filled with spectators cheering on the participants, creating an atmosphere of joy and community.
Citizen participation
La Tamborrada of San Sebastián is an inclusive festival that involves the entire city. San Sebastian residents decorate their balconies and windows with flags and banners, while restaurants and bars offer special menus to celebrate the occasion. Participation is not limited to troupe members, as anyone can join the parade, whether playing an improvised drum, wearing a uniform, or simply enjoying the spectacle as a spectator.
Community involvement is an essential aspect of Tamborrada of San Sebastián. This celebration is a reflection of San Sebastian identity and pride, where the entire city comes together in an act of social cohesion. Differences fade and all participants, both locals and visitors, feel part of a shared tradition.
The Children’s Drum
A highlight of the day is the children’s drum session, which takes place at noon. Children from local schools participate in their own parade, marching through the streets of San Sebastián with drums and barrels. This tradition ensures the continuity of the festival, transmitting the legacy to future generations. The figures of the drum major and the children’s standard bearer are especially important, symbolizing the future of this beloved celebration. The participation of the youngest is a demonstration that the Tamborrada of San Sebastián is still alive and in good hands.
The Lowering of the Flag
The festive day concludes with the lowering of the flag in the Plaza de la Constitución at midnight on January 21. This solemn event officially closes the Tamborrada, putting an end to 24 hours of celebration. The flag is lowered while the companies play the last notes of the Sarriegui marches, leaving a feeling of nostalgia and satisfaction among the participants. The lowering of the flag not only marks the end of the festival, but also reaffirms the city’s commitment to its traditions, keeping the flame of the Tamborrada alive until next year.
The music
Sarriegui’s compositions
Music is the heart of the San Sebastián Tamborrada. Raimundo Sarriegui’s compositions are essential to this celebration, with melodies that resonate throughout the city and unite everyone in a shared rhythm.
Raimundo Sarriegui, a 19th century composer from San Sebastian, created several musical pieces that are fundamental for the Tamborrada. The most notable are:
- «March of San Sebastian»
- «Iriyarena»
- “Look”
- “Tattoo”
- «Diana»
- «Old Wives Cavalry»
- «Cavalry of Roosters»
Lyrics of the “March of San Sebastián”
Below are the lyrics of the “March of San Sebastián” in Basque, with its translation into english:
Bagera!
gu (e)re bai
gu beti pozez, beti alai!
Sebastian bat bada zeruan
Donosti(a) bat bakarra munduan
hura da santua ta hau da herria
horra zer den gure Donostia!
Irutxuloko, Gaztelupeko
Joxemaritar zahar eta gazte
Joxemaritar zahar eta gazte
kalerik kale danborra joaz
umore ona zabaltzen hor dihoaz
Joxemari!
Gaurtandik gerora penak zokora
Festara! Dantzara!
Donostiarrei oihu egitera gatoz
pozaldiz!
Inauteriak datoz!
We are!
Yes, us too,
We are always joyful, always happy!
There is one Sebastian in heaven,
And only one Donostia in the world.
He is the saint, and this is the town,
This is what our Donostia is!
From Irutxulo, from Gaztelupe,
The old and young Joxemaris,
The old and young Joxemaris,
Drumming from street to street,
Spreading good cheer wherever they go,
Joxemari!
From today on, sorrows be gone!
To the party! To the dance!
We come to shout to all Donostians,
With joy!
Carnival is coming!
Musical curiosities and traditions
An interesting curiosity about the Tamborrada is that, when the “March of San Sebastián” is performed, all the participants stop and remain standing. This act symbolizes the respect and importance that the people of San Sebastián give to this very significant melody.
Environment and choreography
Music guides the parades and also invites active participation from the public. The streets of San Sebastián are filled with people singing, dancing and enjoying the contagious rhythm of Sarriegui’s melodies. Spontaneous choreography emerges naturally, with people of all ages moving to the beat of the drums. This combination of music and movement creates a unique atmosphere, where joy and camaraderie are manifested in every corner of the city.
The central role of music in the Tamborrada and the interaction between participants and the public contribute to making this festival a vibrant and dynamic celebration, reflecting the vitality and community spirit of San Sebastián.
Child Participation
Children’s Parade
Every January 20, the children of San Sebastián become the protagonists of their own drum tour. At noon, hundreds of boys and girls parade through the streets of the city, playing drums and barrels, and enthusiastically recreating the festive atmosphere of the adult Tamborrada. This parade is an unmissable spectacle, not only because of the energy and joy that the little ones give off, but also because it shows that the tradition is alive and is perpetuated from generation to generation.
Notable figures
In the children’s drum, two figures stand out especially: the drum major and the child’s standard bearer.
- Children’s Drum Major: This role is generally played by a boy or girl who leads the parade, setting the pace and guiding their peers. The children’s drum major is a figure of great responsibility and honor, since it represents the discipline and enthusiasm of all the young participants.
- Children’s Standard Bearer: The children’s flag bearer has the honor of carrying the flag of San Sebastián during the parade. This figure symbolizes pride and respect towards the city and its history. Like the drum major, the child flag bearer plays a crucial role in the cohesion and spirit of the event.
The importance of the Children’s Drum
The children’s drum session is not only a joyful and festive celebration, but it also has a deep educational and cultural meaning. Through their participation, children learn about the history and traditions of San Sebastián, develop a sense of belonging and community pride, and acquire values such as discipline, cooperation and respect. Furthermore, children’s drumming is a way to ensure that this tradition lasts over time, by instilling in the younger generations a love for their culture and roots.
Organization and preparations
Organizing the children’s drum parade requires meticulous planning. Local schools and associations work together to coordinate rehearsals and prepare children for the parade. The uniforms, inspired by the costumes of adult companies, are adapted for the little ones, and the instruments are adjusted to be handled by them with ease. The result is a well-organized and visually striking parade, which delights spectators and fills participants and their families with pride.
Awards and recognitions
The Golden Drum
He Golden Drum It is the most prestigious award given by the city of San Sebastián every January 20, coinciding with the Tamborrada celebrations. This award recognizes people or entities that have made significant contributions to the city, promoting its image and development in various areas, such as culture, science, sports and social life.
Selection Process:
- Citizens and local entities nominate candidates.
- A jury made up of representatives of the City Council and other prominent figures evaluates the nominations and selects the winner.
Notable Laureates:
- Néstor Basterretxea (1981): Sculptor and painter, noted for his contribution to the plastic arts.
- José María Olazábal (2000): San Sebastian golfer, two-time winner of the Augusta Masters.
- Xabi Alonso (2011): Famous footballer from San Sebastian, world champion with the Spanish team.
- Cristina Iglesias (2016): Artist internationally recognized for her work in sculptures and installations.
- Javier García Cogorro (2023): Co-founder of Viralgen, for his contribution to the development of San Sebastián as a city of science and technology.
- Isabel Verdini (2024): Founder of Verdini Dantza Taldea, for her work in inclusion and promotion of diversity through dance.
The Golden Drum symbolizes the city’s gratitude to those who have worked tirelessly to improve San Sebastián and raise its prestige at a national and international level.
Medals for Citizen Merit
The Medals for Citizen Merit They are another important recognition granted during the Tamborrada. These medals celebrate individuals and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to the San Sebastian community. The awardees have made significant contributions in areas such as culture, education, social care and volunteering.
Characteristics of the Medals of Citizen Merit:
- They recognize efforts in favor of the well-being and development of the community.
- They are awarded to people and entities that have shown a notable commitment to San Sebastián.
These awards reflect the dedication and spirit of service of citizens, strengthening community ties and promoting values of solidarity and cooperation.
Cultural and social impact
Symbol of identity and social cohesion
La Tamborrada of San Sebastián is a profound manifestation of San Sebastian pride and identity. Through participation in this celebration, the inhabitants of San Sebastián strengthen their community ties and celebrate their cultural heritage. The festival includes people of all ages and backgrounds, from children who participate in the children’s drum parade to adults who parade with the different drum and barrel companies. This act of union and collective participation strengthens the sense of belonging and solidarity among the people of San Sebastian.
The massive participation in the Tamborrada of San Sebastián, which includes more than 147 drum and barrel companies, demonstrates the community’s commitment to this tradition. Music, parades and ceremonies, such as the raising and lowering of the flag, are moments that unite the city’s inhabitants in a shared feeling of joy and pride.
Tourist attraction and economic benefits
La Tamborrada of San Sebastián not only unites locals, but also attracts tourists from all over the world. This event has become a major tourist attraction, with visitors coming to San Sebastián to experience the energy and excitement of the festival. The influx of tourists during Tamborrada has a positive impact on the local economy, benefiting hotels, restaurants, bars and shops.
Tourists, by participating and enjoying the Tamborrada, not only contribute to the local economy, but also take a part of San Sebastian culture to their own countries. This cultural exchange enriches both visitors and locals, promoting a mutual understanding and appreciation of traditions and customs.
Promotion of culture and traditions
La Tamborrada of San Sebastián is a platform for the promotion of the culture and traditions of San Sebastián. Sarriegui’s music, spontaneous choreographies and official ceremonies are aspects that highlight and celebrate the city’s rich cultural heritage. Through these elements, the Tamborrada educates new generations about the importance of keeping traditions alive and fosters a deep respect for the past.
In addition, the recognitions and prizes awarded during the Tamborrada of San Sebastián, such as the Golden Drum and the Medals of Citizen Merit, highlight the individual and collective contributions to the cultural and social life of San Sebastián. These awards not only celebrate achievements, but also inspire others to contribute to the well-being and development of the community.
In summary, the Tamborrada of San Sebastián is an event that transcends mere celebration. It is a symbol of identity and social cohesion that unites the people of San Sebastián, attracts tourists from all over the world and benefits the local economy. Through this festival, San Sebastián celebrates its history, promotes its culture and strengthens its community ties, ensuring that this tradition endures and continues to be a source of pride and joy for all.
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