This year, Aste Nagusia in San Sebastián will feature special content linked to nature and astronomy. Mayor Jon Insausti announced that, for the first time, the parks of Gladys Enea, Aiete, Ametzagaina, Urgull, and Ulia will be part of the official program. Additionally, there will be an opportunity to enjoy the exceptional astronomical eclipse on August 12th, with a giant screen set up in Sagues, and children will be able to obtain an "astronaut passport".
The event will also include more novelties. On the Kursaal terrace, from August 10th to 13th, the activity "¡La tarde se baila!" (The afternoon dances!) will be held, offering dance sessions accompanied by live music. On August 10th, the "Guretara" initiative will transport participants to the summer days of San Sebastián in the 1920s. Furthermore, for the first time, a competition to prepare "kokotxas pil-pilean" will take place.
The traditional giants and 'cabezudos' (big-heads) will also be present in the city streets, along with rural sports in Trinitate Square. A wide range of sports activities will be available in areas including Zurriola, Antigua, the Nautical Club, and along the Urumea river. Moreover, for four days, the fairground attractions at Paseo Nuevo and Plaza Gipuzkoa will have quiet days, allowing everyone to enjoy them. And on August 15th, to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Pirotecnia Valcense, a special "pyromusical" show will be held.
Separately, workers in the entertainment and events sector have called for a strike on August 14th, seeking a fair collective agreement. Donostia Piratak (San Sebastián Pirates) have canceled their concerts to support the strike. The City Council has stated it will respect the strike, and Mayor Jon Insausti emphasized that "the best way to care for and protect culture is to program it," noting that the municipal premise has always been to "look after a vulnerable sector".
The mayor confirmed the intention to maintain the programming for August 14th, and stated that as the date approaches, they will "see what to do to uphold the program".
