About the Fiestas de la Calle de San Sebastián
The Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián is the unofficial closing to the longest holiday season in the world. During the multi-day celebrations, Old San Juan is completely taken over by live music, impromptu dancing in every street corner, and even circus performances! Fun fact: The festival is also known locally as the SanSe, a shortened version of the full name.
The Octavitas is an extension of Christmas where people continue to have parties and revelry.
When Are the Fiestas de la Calle de San Sebastián Held?
This annual event usually occurs during the third weekend of January, from Thursday to Saturday. The 2025 edition of the Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián will be from January 16 to 19.
Where are the Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián Held?
While most of the major activities are held within the legendary street of Calle San Sebastián, the festivities extend beyond that, with many local businesses participating throughout Old San Juan. A few well-known places include La Factoría, La Taberna Lúpulo, La Tortuga, and even historic sites like Museo Casa Blanca. Visitors can also explore markets and pop-up shops where artisans from across the Island showcase and sell their crafts and artwork.
Activities and Events
The festivities start at around 5 pm, with the Comparsa de los Cabezudos, a pageant with Puerto Rican folkloric characters like Doña Fela, Diplo, El General, Juan Bobo, and la Puerca, among others. They make their way to the Plaza del Quinto Centenario, located near the Castillo San Felipe del Morro—that’s where the party truly starts with live music and performances.
During the daytime, the old city’s plazas and streets are filled with local artists and artisans, showcasing and selling everything from paintings to hand-made jewelry. Once the sun goes down, multiple concerts and parties take place across the walled city, and the joyous revelry continues into the late hours of the night.
Parking and Transportation
While there are a few parking lots dotted throughout Old San Juan, it’s highly recommended that you use one of the different modes of public transit. During the Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián, special public transportation schedules are implemented to accommodate attendees. Services include the ferry between Cataño and Old San Juan, AMA buses, and the train known as Tren Urbano.
Ferry Schedule:
- Thursday: 5:30am to 1am
- Friday: 5:30am to 2am
- Saturday: 7:30am to 2am
- Sunday: 7:30am to 1am
Tren Urbano and Bus Schedule:
- Thursday: 2:00 pm to 2:00 am
- Friday: 2:00 pm to 2:00 am
- Saturday: 9:00 am to 2:00am
- Sunday: 9:00 am to 2:00am
Where To Stay In San Juan and the Metro Region
Before the fun begins or after all the revelry of the SanSe, having a place to rest and recharge is a must. If you’re looking for accommodations near Old San Juan, the capital, and the rest of the Metro Region, there are plenty of options for every budget and preference.
More Things To Do in Puerto Rico
Looking to extend your paradise experience after taking on the SanSe? You’ll find that fun, history, and diverse culture live in every corner of the Island—there’s never a dull moment in Puerto Rico! Whether you’re searching for fun outdoor activities like the Bosque Nacional El Yunque and the Bosque Seco de Guánica, historic sites like Castillo Serrallés and Centro Ceremonial Indigena de Caguana, or to delight your palette with delicious traditional dishes, there’s nothing better than living each moment in the heart and soul of the Caribbean.
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