San Sebastian pulls in crowds for more than just its beaches and incredible food. In 2026, you'll find 55 events here, from the buzz around the International Film Festival each autumn to the summer's Jazzaldia, bringing top musicians to open-air stages. Even outside these big moments, the city's neighbourhoods, especially the Parte Vieja, often host smaller gatherings centred on local traditions or delicious food.
You'll find a relaxed crowd, keen to enjoy both the cultural offerings and the famous pintxos scene. Staying in hostels in San Sebastian keeps things budget-friendly and central, putting you right where the action is for events or just finding mates to share a drink with. The Hostelworld app can help you link up with other travellers before a show. San Sebastian in 2026 offers culture, coast, and connections.
Top Events San Sebastian, Spain
San Sebastian Events you can’t miss in 2026
Film screenings, jazz riffs, coastal festival vibes
Best things to do in San Sebastian
Festival

San Sebastian International Film Festival
18-26 Sep, 2026
San Sebastian, Spain
Festival

Grand Week (Semana Grande)
8-15 Aug, 2026
San Sebastian, Spain
Competition

Bandera de la Concha
6-13 Sep, 2026
San Sebastian, Spain
Festival

Donostiako Musika Hamabostaldia (Quincena Musical de San Sebastián)
2-30 Aug, 2026
San Sebastian, Spain
Festival

Literaktum (festival de literatura)
9-22 Nov, 2026
San Sebastian, Spain
Festival

Donosskino Short Film Festival
6-10 Oct, 2026
San Sebastian, Spain
Festival

San Sebastian Gastronomika
5-7 Oct, 2026
San Sebastian, Spain
Festival

Dantz Festival
28-29 Aug, 2026
San Sebastian, Spain
Festival

Basque festival (Euskal Jaiak)
2-13 Sep, 2026
San Sebastian, Spain
Festival

Semana Grande Festival
8-15 Aug, 2026
San Sebastian, Spain
Festival

International Film Festival
18-26 Sep, 2026
San Sebastian, Spain
Koba Hostel
1.08km from city centre
From€17.01
Surf Camp and Party Hostel by Stoke Travel
16.47km from city centre
From€30.00
A Room In The City Hostel
0.05km from city centre
From€23.00
Cats Hostel San Sebastian
1.57km from city centre
From€14.11
Surfing Etxea Surf Hostel
1.2km from city centre
From€33.88
Colo Colo the Smart Hostel
0.38km from city centre
From€20.20
Downtown River Hostel
0.38km from city centre
From€22.80
Balea Hostel
1.74km from city centre
From€31.74