The San Sebastian International Film Festival is one of Europe's most significant cinematic events, held annually in the coastal city of San Sebastián in Spain's Basque Country. Its red carpet ceremonies at venues like the Kursaal Congress Centre and the Victoria Eugenia Theatre attract international stars and filmmakers, offering a more intimate alternative to the frenetic atmosphere of larger festivals. Unlike Cannes or Venice, San Sebastian's scale allows for a closer connection between the industry and the public, though access to the red carpet itself is strictly controlled.
When and Where the Red Carpet Happens
The festival typically runs in September, and the official website of the San Sebastian Festival will confirm the exact dates for each edition, so always check the current year's schedule. Red carpet ceremonies and photocalls are staged at the main venues, principally the Kursaal Congress Centre and the Victoria Eugenia Theatre, both located in the city center. Films in the Official Selection, as well as galas and special screenings, usually have their own red carpet moments before the screening begins.
The Kursaal is the festival's headquarters and hosts many premieres, while the Victoria Eugenia Theatre is another key location for galas. Photocalls for the press often occur in the same venues or nearby, but they are separate from the red carpet premieres. To find out which films will have red carpets and at what time, consult the festival's official programme, which is published closer to the event.
What to Expect: Photocalls vs. Red Carpet Premieres
It's useful to distinguish between a photocall and a red carpet premiere. A photocall is a daytime event where cast and filmmakers pose for photographers in a designated area, usually without the fanfare of the evening red carpet. Red carpet premieres are more formal occasions, often held in the evening, where the full cast walks before a screening, with interviews and live coverage.
The festival's own TV channel periodically streams these moments, which can give you a sense of timing and ceremony. For example, the 2024 edition's red carpet for 'The Room Next Door' featured director Pedro Almodóvar and actress Tilda Swinton, while 'Rumours' brought Cate Blanchett to the carpet for her Donostia Award. These events are typically scheduled in the early evening, but times vary, so check the daily agenda online.
Who Appears on the Red Carpet
Historical appearances include A-list talent such as Cate Blanchett, who received the Donostia Award in 2024, and Lupita Nyong'o, who attended the premiere of 'The Wild Robot'. The festival also honors filmmakers like Pedro Almodóvar and regularly presents awards to stars such as Naomi Watts and Werner Herzog, who were confirmed for the 2026 edition. However, specific celebrity appearances for future editions are never guaranteed; they depend on film selections and the stars' availability.
To get a sense of who might attend, watch for the festival's official announcements about the lineup and honorees, usually released in late summer. The Donostia Award recipients are often announced several weeks in advance. High-profile films in the Official Selection often bring their stars to promote the film, but only the festival's confirmed guest list can be relied upon.
Accreditation Pathways for Red Carpet Access
Access to the red carpet and premiere screenings typically requires a festival accreditation, and there are three main categories: press, industry, and cultural bodies and activities. Each has its own application process, eligibility criteria, and fees, which are detailed on the official accreditation pages. Press accreditations are reserved for journalists officially representing a media outlet, while industry accreditations cater to film professionals. Cultural accreditations are available to institutions, film schools, and cultural associations.
Applying early is crucial, as deadlines fall in July and August. For industry accreditation, applications should be sent by August 25th, and fees increase as the festival approaches. Similarly, cultural accreditation has an August 25th deadline. Always check the official accreditation pages for the most current deadlines and fee structures, as they can change each year.
For Non-Accredited Visitors
For visitors without accreditation, the festival does not provide official public viewing areas for the red carpet. That said, the red carpet events take place in public streets and plazas, and you may be able to catch a glimpse of the proceedings from a distance, but there are no designated 'fan zones' and access is not guaranteed. The festival's organizers have not published any official guidance on public viewing, so do not assume you can stand close to the action.
One option is to attend films that are open to the public; many screenings are ticketed, and you may see celebrities entering the venue, but not walking the carpet. For those who simply want to soak in the festival atmosphere, the bars and restaurants of the Parte Vieja are often frequented by industry attendees, but that's informal and not a reliable way to meet stars.
Tips for Watching from Public Areas
If you plan to watch from the periphery, arrive early and position yourself near the barriers that are typically set up along the red carpet route. But be aware that the exact layout and access points vary each year, and public access is not officially documented. Some visitors have reported camping out hours in advance, but the red carpet is usually rolled out shortly before the premiere, so you'll need to time your arrival carefully.
Since there is no official guarantee of public viewing, consider enjoying the atmosphere from nearby cafes or the promenade. Keep in mind that roads may be closed and large crowds can gather, so plan your route and stay flexible. The most rewarding approach may be to watch the red carpet coverage on the festival's own livestreams or on television, which is the next best thing to being there.
Alternative Ways to See Celebrities
The official festival website and its TV channel offer livestreams or replays of red carpet ceremonies and photocalls for each day of the festival. Many international and Spanish outlets also broadcast highlights. Follow the festival on social media for real-time updates, and the official website's 'Videos' section archives past red carpet moments.
WWD and other fashion and entertainment outlets also cover the red carpet with photo galleries and commentary, which can give you a close-up look at the style and glamour. For the most comprehensive coverage, check the official SSIFF TV channel, which may provide dedicated red carpet segments and interviews.
Checklist Before You Go
Before attending the festival, verify the current edition's dates and program on the official site, as these change yearly. If you are applying for accreditation, start early and gather the necessary documentation, such as a letter from your editor or a portfolio of your work. Once the festival programme is released, plan which red carpets you might want to watch from afar, but be ready for last-minute schedule changes.
Check the festival's 'Tickets' pages for public screenings, which often sell out quickly. And lastly, keep your expectations realistic: without accreditation, you are unlikely to get near the stars, but you can still enjoy the unique energy of the festival in San Sebastián.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A common error is assuming the public can walk the red carpet; only accredited guests and journalists are allowed past the barriers. Another is missing accreditation deadlines, which are strict and rarely extended. Also, do not rely on outdated information about past editions; always check the festival's official site.
Finally, don't forget that the festival is not just about red carpets—there are dozens of films, cultural events, and a vibrant city to enjoy. So, even if you don't spot your favorite star, the trip can still be a memorable cinematic experience.
Plan Your Visit
Attending the San Sebastian International Film Festival is a dream for many cinephiles, but the red carpet is primarily a professional space. To have the best chance of seeing stars up close, consider applying for cultural or press accreditation if you qualify, or simply enjoy the public screenings and the city's festive atmosphere. The official website is your best source for accurate dates, programs, and accreditation details.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the San Sebastian Film Festival?
The San Sebastian International Film Festival is held annually in September. Exact dates vary each year; the 2026 edition is scheduled for September 18-26, but always confirm on the official website.
Where do celebrities walk the red carpet at the San Sebastian Film Festival?
Celebrities typically walk the red carpet at the Kursaal Congress Centre and the Victoria Eugenia Theatre in San Sebastián. These venues host many premieres and galas throughout the festival.
Can the public attend red carpet events?
No official public access to the red carpet is available. Without accreditation, you cannot walk the carpet or enter the premiere venues. Viewing areas for the public are not officially designated.
What are the accreditation requirements?
Accreditation categories include press, industry, and cultural bodies. Press requires a letter from your editor and published articles. Industry and cultural accreditations require a company dossier and relevant background. Fees apply and deadlines are typically in August.
Which celebrities attend the San Sebastian Film Festival?
Past attendees include Cate Blanchett, Lupita Nyong'o, Pedro Almodóvar, and Naomi Watts. Future appearances depend on film selections and are announced by the festival, so check official announcements.
