Euskal Jaiak: Why This Basque Festival Should Be On Your Radar

If you’re excited to explore new cultures beyond just food and travel, Euskal Jaiak is the perfect Basque festival for you. Literally translated as ‘Basque Festivities,’ it highlights the Basque dedication to preserving their language, history, and traditions, as San Sebastián and nearby towns showcase the richness of their culture.

Let’s find out what makes Euskal Jaiak a celebration of Basque culture and identity.

What is Euskal Jaiak?

Euskal Jaiak is a dynamic weeklong festival held annually in early September, celebrating the rich culture and traditions of the Basque Country. 

Taking place not just in San Sebastián, but also in neighboring towns, this festival showcases Basque identity through a mix of traditional clothing, music, sports, and local food and produce. It’s a fantastic opportunity to glimpse the Basque Country’s past and celebrate the spirit of this unique region.

Imagine women donning long, flowing skirts and a zapi, a kerchief that frames their faces with grace. Men wear long trousers, a loose shirt, and the iconic txapela, the Basque beret. Both sport abarkas—leather laced shoes that once shielded feet during farm work. It’s like watching the cultural exhibits of the San Telmo Museum step off the walls and dance through the streets.

Travel tip: 

• The exact dates of Euskal Jaiak vary every year, so do a quick online search before booking your trip to make sure you don’t miss it.

The Bandera de la Concha Regatta: A must-see event

One of the standout highlights of Euskal Jaiak is the thrilling Bandera de la Concha regatta or Donostiako Estropadak in Basque. This historic rowing competition, which began in 1879, takes center stage during the festival. 

With the breathtaking La Concha Bay as its backdrop, the regatta attracts thousands of spectators who flock to the coastline and on Monte Urgull to witness the intense races where rowing teams from neighboring towns compete fiercely.

The crowd is just as fun to watch as the race itself. Spectators get in on the action decked out in their team’s colors, even spraying them into the air. It almost looks like a Quidditch match at Hogwarts.

Pro tip: 

• Make sure to arrive early to secure a prime viewing spot. Better yet, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard in Ondarreta or La Concha and watch the race from the bay. Aim for a spot near the island and don’t forget to bring water.

Cider day: A flavorful celebration

If you’ve been on a Devour pintxos tour, you’ve likely tried your hand at pouring cider the traditional way. Cider Day, or Sagardo Eguna in Basque, is the perfect opportunity to put those skills to the test.

Another highlight of Euskal Jaiak, this event allows local cider houses to showcase their product right in the heart of the city at Plaza de la Constitución. Fiesta-goers can savor refreshing cider paired with txistorra—the delicious Basque chorizo–wrapped in their hand-made corn tortilla called talo. (Just the memory of this simple but tasty snack will make your mouth water.)

Foodie trivia: 

• Basque apple cider is a prized product, earning a Denominación de Origen seal for its quality. Traditionally, cider season runs from January to April, when the fermented cider is bottled and enjoyed across the region. But come September, the apple harvest begins, starting the process anew.

Traditional Basque sports and dance

Now that we’re full from delicious snacks and cider, it’s time to get moving. Flex and stretch your way into the competitive world of traditional Basque sports. Euskal Jaiak brings an exciting lineup of activities that showcase the incredible athleticism of the Basque people.

Witness impressive feats of strength with ancient sports like wood chopping and stone lifting. These competitions highlight the skills that have been honed over the rolling Basque mountains over centuries. You can also catch a game of Basque pelota, which is a fast-paced, high-energy court sport, and a crowd favorite.

The Basque strength and endurance is also showcased through graceful traditional dances, some of which have been performed for hundreds of years. Join in with a charanga and watch as locals show off their moves, adding a lively rhythm to the festival. Whether you’re marveling at the athletes or dancing with the crowd, you’ll be amazed by the stamina of the Basque people—they’re always on their feet and never seem to take a break.

Euskal Jaiak beyond San Sebastián

While San Sebastián may be the heart of the festivities, Euskal Jaiak is also celebrated in these day trip destinations: Zarautz and Hondarribia. These quiet, sleepy towns come alive with the spirit of Basque culture, offering a more intimate window into the region’s traditions. As these smaller communities burst into celebration, you’ll find a warm atmosphere that makes it feel like you’re part of the local fabric.

Some say that you don’t really experience the true Basque Country until you visit a small town in the region. So, take this as your neon sign to go for it.

Travel tip: 

• Closer to San Sebastián and easily accessible by bus or a pre-booked taxi, Hondarribia is the last town before the French border and is steeped in charm and history. For a surf vibe, head to Zarautz, known for its long stretch of beach. You can get there by train, bus, or taxi—and if you’re up for a long scenic walk, follow the coast to the nearby fishing town of Getaria.

Immerse yourself in Basque Culture and tradition

As you may have noticed, the Basque Country doesn’t quite fit the typical image of Spain. It boasts its own unique culture, language, and identity of which the locals are fiercely proud. Euskal Jaiak celebrates this and showcases how deeply locals engage with their traditions.

Beyond the exhilarating regattas and thrilling sports, Euskal Jaiak is an invitation to witness the Basque people in their element. If you’re planning a trip to San Sebastian, this festival is your chance to experience the culture up close and get to the heart of the Basque identity.

Update Notice: This post was updated on August 14, 2024.