San Sebastian Film Festival.

Every September, the San Sebastian International Film Festival arrives. It is popularly known as Zinemaldia. It is not just an event; it’s an institution. It is a great meeting point for stars, directors, producers, and film lovers. They all converge in La Concha Bay to celebrate the magic of the big screen.
This festival was born in 1953. It has consolidated its prestige over the years. For this reason, it is considered one of the most important film festivals in Europe and the world.
The Kursaal and the Red Carpet
The epicenter of the festival is the majestic Kursaal. Its iconic glass cubes light up at dusk, reflecting the modern and avant-garde spirit of the event. This is where the red carpet is rolled out. Stars parade and camera flashes never cease.

A Showcase of the Best World Cinema
The heart of the festival beats with its prestigious sections. The Official Selection competes for the coveted Golden Shell. It is the highest award of the competition. It is also the great showcase of contemporary cinema, displaying the year’s most daring and relevant proposals.
Sections that Discover New Talent
Alongside it, there are other key sections. Horizontes Latinos, Perlak, and New Directors are some of them. These categories discover emerging talents and also bring the best of international production. This turns Donostia into a thermometer of global cinematic trends. You can check the complete program on the official Zinemaldia website.
(Sugerencia de imagen: Fachada del Kursaal de noche, iluminado. Atributo ALT: Festival de Cine de San Sebastián Kursaal)
The Movie Lover’s Experience in the City
Zinemaldia is much more than screenings and awards. Press conferences and discussions offer something unique. Directors and actors provide an opportunity to get closer to the creative process, thus gaining a better understanding of the art of cinema. Additionally, the Donostia Award is presented. This award pays tribute to legendary figures of international cinema.
The atmosphere in the city during those days is electrifying. It will be even better if you move around hands-free. Store your luggage in our lockers, just a step away from the festival. This way you’ll enjoy the show without worries. Locking is a safe bet to enjoy the event without burdens. Fans can run into their idols on the streets. It’s a close and very exciting experience.
In summary, the San Sebastian Film Festival is an unmissable event for any film lover. It’s the opportunity to enjoy the best cinema, all in an incomparable setting. It’s a celebration that pays homage to the art of telling stories with images. Year after year, the event reaffirms Donostia as a global cultural and cinematographic reference.
To continue exploring the magic of the city, we invite you to read our post about walks through the Old Town of San Sebastian.