Introduction to Basque Country Festivals
If you are planning your next travel destination or just curious to learn more about different cultures, the Basque Country in Spain is a place that will definitely catch your eye. Known for its unique culture and traditions, it is not surprising that the region is home to some of the most famous festivals in the country.
From religious processions to food fairs, Basque Country hosts a variety of events throughout the year, each with its own special traditions and activities. The locals take great pride in their festivals and tend to celebrate them with great enthusiasm and passion.
Some of the most popular festivals in the Basque Country include Semana Grande, Bilbao BBK Live, Aste Nagusia in Bilbao, and the Tamborrada in San Sebastian. However, these are just a few examples of the many festivals that take place in the region.
One of the unique aspects of these festivals is the emphasis on the Basque language, Euskara. You will hear the language spoken throughout the events, adding to the cultural richness of the celebrations.
Whether you are a food lover, a music enthusiast or just interested in learning about different cultures, the Basque Country festivals will not disappoint. Keep reading to learn more about the famous festivals and their unique traditions.
1. San Sebastián International Film Festival
The San Sebastián International Film Festival, also known as the Donostia Zinemaldia in Basque language, is an annual film festival held in the city of San Sebastián located in the Basque Country of Spain. It is one of the most renowned film festivals in Europe and showcases a wide range of international films, attracting filmmakers, actors, and movie enthusiasts from all over the world.
The festival has been held annually since 1953, making it one of the oldest film festivals in Europe. It usually takes place in September and attracts more than 200,000 visitors every year. The festival features a variety of categories, including international films, Spanish-language films, and Basque cinema.
One of the highlights of the festival is the award ceremony, where the prestigious Golden Shell award is presented to the best film. The Donostia Award, which recognizes the lifetime achievement of outstanding personalities in the world of cinema, is also presented at the festival.
Besides the films, the festival also offers a range of cultural events and activities such as concerts, art exhibitions, and workshops. One of the most popular events is the Open Air cinema where movies are shown in outdoor locations throughout the city. The festival also celebrates the Basque culture, offering visitors a chance to explore the region’s history and traditions.
Overall, the San Sebastián International Film Festival is a must-visit event for movie enthusiasts who want to experience some of the best films from around the world and immerse themselves in the rich culture of the Basque Country.
2. Bilbao BBK Live
If you’re into music festivals, Bilbao BBK Live is one you cannot miss! It’s an annual music festival that takes place in the month of July, in the northern Spanish city of Bilbao, the capital of the Basque Country. The festival is one of the largest in Spain, attracting music lovers from all over the world, and has featured renowned musicians such as The Strokes, Radiohead, and Florence + the Machine, to name a few.
Bilbao BBK Live takes place at the top of a hill overlooking the city, called Monte Kobetas, which provides spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. It’s an experience unlike any other, offering not only great music but also a stunning backdrop and a festival atmosphere that’s hard to beat.
One of the unique aspects of this festival is its innovative and sustainable approach to organizing such a large-scale event. They have implemented a variety of environmental initiatives such as using reusable cups, providing free public transportation to and from the festival, and even offering a bike rental service to encourage attendees to reduce their carbon footprint.
Another cool feature of Bilbao BBK Live is the chance to explore the city of Bilbao itself, which is known for its rich culture and history. Take a stroll through the charming old town, visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum, or indulge in some of the Basque cuisine that the city is famous for.
If you’re considering attending this festival, keep in mind that tickets tend to sell out quickly, so be sure to purchase them in advance. And don’t forget to check out the lineup of great musicians and plan your trip accordingly, to make the most of your experience at Bilbao BBK Live.
3. Aste Nagusia
Aste Nagusia, meaning “Big Week” in Basque, is a highly anticipated annual festival that takes place in Bilbao, the largest city of the Basque Country, every August. This weeklong celebration is one of the most vibrant and colorful fiestas in the region, attracting thousands of locals and tourists alike.
During Aste Nagusia, the streets of Bilbao are transformed into a lively stage for various cultural performances, concerts, parades, and competitions. The festival officially kicks off with an opening ceremony that includes the traditional raising of the Basque flag and the lighting of the txupinazo, a rocket that signals the start of the festivities.
Throughout the week, visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, from the Bilbao International Fireworks Competition to street theater performances, sporting events, and music concerts featuring renowned artists. One of the highlights of the festival is the infamous Toro de Fuego or “Bull of Fire,” where a large papier-mâché bull filled with fireworks is chased by revelers through the streets.
Apart from the lively atmosphere and cultural events, Aste Nagusia is also a culinary feast. Basque cuisine is renowned for its diversity and high quality, and during the festival, food stalls offering traditional dishes such as pintxos, a type of Basque tapas, and churros, a popular street food, can be found throughout the city.
Overall, Aste Nagusia is an unforgettable experience for anyone visiting the Basque Country during the summer months. Its vibrant cultural offerings, exciting events, and delicious cuisine make it one of the most popular and celebrated festivals in the region.
4. Carnival of Ituren
The Carnival of Ituren, also known as Joaldunak or Zanpantzar, is one of the most unique and traditional carnivals in Basque Country. This festival takes place every year on the last weekend of January and first weekend of February in the villages of Ituren and Zubieta. The carnival is one of the oldest pre-Christian carnivals that has survived in Europe, and its history goes back more than 600 years.
The highlight of the Carnival of Ituren is the appearance of the joaldunak, which are men dressed in sheepskins, leather belts, and cowbells. The joaldunak walk through the streets and alleys of the villages, making a lot of noise with their cowbells and shouting. They wear a wooden hat with two feathers on top, which is a characteristic feature of joaldunak.
Beside the joaldunak, there are other characters that take part in the Carnival of Ituren. The most important is the zanpantzarrak, a group of people dressed in white shirts and pants with colorful scarves around their necks. They carry sticks and dance around the joaldunak. The zanpantzarrak also wear a unique hat made of colorful ribbons and straw. They sometimes engage in friendly fights with the joaldunak, but it’s all in good fun.
The Carnival of Ituren also involves lots of eating and drinking. The villagers set up food stalls and offer local specialties such as txistorra (a type of sausage) and talo (a type of cornmeal). There are also plenty of Basque ciders and wines to sample.
The Carnival of Ituren is a must-see for anyone visiting Basque Country during the winter months. It’s an authentic and traditional festival that has been celebrated for generations. The best way to experience the carnival is to join the villagers and participate in the festivities. So, put on some warm clothes, grab a cup of cider, and let the joaldunak lead the way!
5. Tamborrada
Tamborrada is a one-of-a-kind festival that takes place every year in San Sebastian on January 20th. The festival is to celebrate the patron saint of the city, San Sebastian. The festival dates back to the 19th century when the drum has been used as a way to alert the town of dangers and call the troops.
The festival begins at midnight on January 19th with the lowering of the flag of San Sebastian. The following day starts with the raising of the flag, and for the next 24 hours, the entire city becomes a stage for people dressed in traditional cook’s clothing with over 100 drumming bands all around the city.
The city center, including the Old Town, becomes a bustling crowd of people wearing white and blue outfits, with the sounds of drums and barrels echoing throughout. The festival is not only about the sounds of drums; it’s also a giant gastronomical feast with tons of food and drinks on offer. It is also an opportunity for people to gather and share a drink with each other.
As the day comes to an end, the drumming becomes more intense, and more people join in to play. The festival reaches its climax at midnight when everyone sings the “Ode to Joy” and the flag is raised once again, signaling the end of the event.
This festival is unlike anything else you have ever experienced, and it is easy to see why it is so popular among locals and visitors alike. With hundreds of drumming bands, a sea of people dressed in white and blue, and endless amounts of food and drink, Tamborrada would undoubtedly be a highlight of any trip to the Basque Country.
6. Basque Fest
If you find yourself in Basque country, Spain during the last week of August, prepare yourself to experience the most important and fun-filled festival of the year – Basque Fest. The festival is a celebration of Basque culture and tradition, accompanied by a wide array of music, dancing, food, and drinks.
The event brings together people from all walks of life, both locals and tourists alike, to celebrate together and create unforgettable memories. The festival is usually held in Bilbao, one of the largest cities in Basque Country, featuring various activities, events, and performances.
One of the highlights of Basque Fest is the popular street party that takes place in the picturesque old town, Casco Viejo. Here, you can find a lively atmosphere with colorful decorations, live music, and street performers that will keep you entertained throughout the night.
No Basque festival is complete without traditional Basque sports, and Basque Fest is no exception. You will witness some of these unique sports such as Basque pelota, which is similar to squash, and involves hitting a ball against a wall with a bare hand, a wooden bat or a basket.
If you are a foodie, you will have the opportunity to taste some of the delicious Basque cuisine during the festival. The food vendors offer a variety of traditional dishes such as pintxos (bite-sized snacks), grilled squid, and suckling pig, which are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Basque Fest also pays homage to the Basque culture and history through various performances, ranging from folk dances to contemporary music concerts. You can also catch the famous Tamborrada, which is a drum festival that takes place on the eve of the festival.
If you plan to visit Basque country, make sure your visit coincides with Basque Fest. It is an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the Basque culture and experience the vibrant and colorful spirit of the region.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Basque Country in Spain is a culturally rich region that offers a wide range of festivals throughout the year. Music festivals, film festivals, carnivals, and street parties are just a few examples of the many celebrations that take place with great enthusiasm and passion by the locals. Visitors are not only treated to exceptional cultural experiences but also to traditional Basque cuisine and drinks. Each festival has its unique traditions and activities, making them must-visit events for those who want to immerse in the rich culture of this region. No matter what kind of festival-goer you are, there is something for everyone at the Basque Country festivals.
