Monument to the Tamborrero

On your right, at the very start of Sarriegi Square, you’ll see a statue that pays tribute to a beloved local tradition, the Tamborrada. This sculpture depicts a drummer, and celebrates one of San Sebastian’s most famous festivals, held every year on January 20th in honour of the city’s patron saint, Saint Sebastian. The origins of this celebration date back to the early 19th century, during the War of Independence, when Napoleonic troops occupied the city. The French soldiers often marched through the streets to the sound of drums, which didn’t sit well with the locals. In response, the townspeople began mocking the practice by banging on kitchen utensils, and later, on real drums during the festival that eventually became the Tamborrada. The festivities begin at midnight on January 19th, when the city’s flag is raised. Marching bands take to the streets all day long, drumming loudly while dressed in French-style military uniforms, or cook costumes. Today, the Tamborrada brings together more than 18,000 people from all over the city, for a full day of music, parades, and celebration.