Euskadi This Week (Apr 25-May 1): Top Events and Weekend Plans

The San Prudencio Festivities in Álava are a vibrant celebration of Basque culture, blending tradition, gastronomy, music, and community spirit. In 2025, the festivities commenced on April 24 and will culminate on May 1, coinciding with the Feast of Our Lady of Estíbaliz.

A highlight of this year’s celebration is the 50th anniversary of the Tamborrada, a lively drumming parade initiated in 1975 by the Ametza Gastronomic Society. This event has become a cornerstone of the festivities, featuring participants dressed as cooks and soldiers, marching through the streets of Vitoria-Gasteiz to the rhythm of drums and traditional Basque instruments. 

The festivities also showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage, with traditional dishes like perretxikos (spring mushrooms) taking center stage. Cooking contests, wine tastings, and communal meals are integral parts of the celebration, reflecting the communal and festive spirit of Álava.

The culmination on May 1 with the pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Estíbaliz adds a spiritual dimension to the festivities, drawing communities together in reverence and celebration.

Overall, the San Prudencio Festivities are a testament to the enduring cultural traditions of Álava, offering a unique blend of religious observance, culinary delights, and communal joy of spring.lkk