Top 5 things to do in San Sebastian this winter

1. Celebrate Santo Tomás like a true local

December 21 marks one of the most iconic days in San Sebastián: the Día de Santo Tomás. Picture this: the streets transform into a rustic holiday market, bustling with stalls selling local crafts, farm-fresh produce, and the star of the show—talo with chistorra. What’s talo, you ask? Think of it as a rustic Basque taco: a warm, corn-flour flatbread lovingly wrapped around a juicy sausage.

Add a glass of txakoli (a crisp local wine) or sagardoa (cider), and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a cozy Basque culinary dream. Oh, and don’t forget to snap a photo with the txerri, the enormous pig that serves as the unofficial mascot of the day. (If Brad Pitt were here, he’d probably be bargaining for a chistorra sandwich while charming his way through the crowds.)

Pro tip: head to Plaza de la Constitución for the most atmospheric stalls. The square’s colorful balconies feel straight out of a Wes Anderson film—perfect for a quick Instagram break.

2. Get festive at the Christmas Market

What’s winter without a Christmas market? San Sebastián’s Christmas Market transforms into a wonderland of twinkling lights, artisanal stalls, and festive cheer during December. Stroll along the market with a cup of hot chocolate (or mulled wine) in hand, and you might just find yourself humming carols like a character in a holiday rom-com.

But the highlight? The Ferris wheel in Alderdi Eder. From the top, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of La Concha Bay, the twinkling city, and perhaps even a cinematic sunset. Imagine Ryan Gosling proposing to Emma Stone here—it’s that romantic. And let’s be honest: there’s no better way to feel on top of the world, both literally and figuratively.

Zinema7 film buff note: If your Ferris wheel ride doesn’t inspire a slow, pensive shot of you gazing over the city like in an old noir film, we’ll be surprised.

 3. Experience the magic of the Three Kings Parade

Move over Santa—here in San Sebastián, the real stars of the holiday season are Olentzero, Maridomingi and the Three Kings. On the evening of January 5, the city comes alive with a parade that feels like a blockbuster premiere. There are elaborate floats, performers in vibrant costumes, and plenty of candy raining down for the kids (and let’s be honest, the adults too).

The parade winds through the city, with Melchor, Gaspar, and Balthazar throwing sweets and waving regally like they just stepped off the set of The Lord of the Rings. Watching this spectacle is a must for families—though anyone with a childlike sense of wonder will enjoy it too.

Insider tip: arrive early to grab a good spot along the parade route. And if you’re traveling with kids, head to the Boulevard area—it’s less crowded, and the little ones will have an easier time catching candy.