Star-spotting along the beachfront promenade is always a top sport at the festival, where tickets run only $8 to $9.50 for most screenings of films in a babel of world languages. Some blockbusters are shown in the 3,000-seat bicycle racing stadium, while major competition screenings take place in the Kursaal, a dramatic modern exhibition center designed by Rafael Moneo. Literally next to the Kursaal is Zurriola beach, favored by surfers and minimally clad sun worshipers, and across the street is the Gros neighborhood, location of the city’s finest pintxos (tapas) bars. San Sebastián International Film Festival, Sept. 18-26, www.sansebastianfestival.com. Tickets available in personor beginning Sept. 14on the Internet.
PATRICIA HARRIS AND DAVID LYON
YBOR CITY, FLA.:Meet Mama Guava “I see a great party in your future.’’ That’s the costume theme for a giant annual street fest known as Guavaween being held Oct. 31 in Florida’s historic cigar city. Up to 100,000 people come to put on the glitz, wear out their stilettos, and parade down 7th Avenue with Mama Guava in the Stumble Parade. Whether or not you win the $1,000 prize for originality, it’s a party for sure.
A well-organized gay community has opened new eateries and entertainment venues and Ybor’s balconied architecture and 3 a.m. last calls invite comparisons to Bourbon Street in New Orleans. After the party, take the Ybor City Museum walking tour ($8), chow down with college students and NFL stars at The Laughing Cat, and get a barber clip while puffing a stogie at King Corona Café & Bar. Ybor even has a new Ikea, Florida’s largest.
For what to wear, take a cue from Mama Guava, who one year appeared on a litter borne by bare-chested men who dropped her, splitting open her costume. On purpose. Guavaween admission $25, 813-242-4828 or 813-248-0721,www.cc-events.org/gw.
PATRICIA BORNS
