Donostia begins Aste Nagusia festivities

The Aste Nagusia (Great Week) festivities have officially commenced in Donostia. The celebration began at the Alderdi Eder gardens with the traditional 'Cañonazo' pyrotechnic display, which drew large crowds despite threats of rain.

The opening ceremony featured performances by eight local dance groups and the singing of traditional folk songs. During the event, Mayor Jon Insausti honored local footballers Mikel Oyarzabal, captain of Real Sociedad, and Martin Zubimendi of Arsenal, recognizing their contributions to Gipuzkoa and the Spanish national team.

The festivities also included social and political expressions, with members of the Kaleko Afari Solidarioen (KAS) displaying banners regarding solidarity. The eight-day festival is characterized by traditional parades of giants and local gastronomy.