As July wraps up and we cross into August, the summer energy shifts into high gear. August in Euskal Herria isn’t just another month on the calendar—it is festibalen garaia (festival season) at its absolute peak.

As July gives way to August, the Basque summer reaches its stride. This week bridges spiritual traditions, major arena pop shows, daytime park festivals, and the grand opening of one of Europe’s oldest classical music traditions—all leading into the region’s iconic month-long festival circuit.

Here are the essential highlights to mark on your calendar for July 31 – August 06.

What to look forward to in August:

• Virgen Blanca (Vitoria-Gasteiz): Early August kicks off with Celedón descending over the packed Plaza de la Virgen Blanca.

• Aste Nagusia / Semana Grande (San Sebastián & Bilbao): The crown jewel of August. Nine straight days of nighttime firework competitions, txosnas (festival tents), traditional giant puppet parades (gigantes y cabezudos), live concerts on every corner, and Marijaia leading the celebration in Bilbao.

Grab an iced txakoli or a cold zurito, soak in the lingering late afternoon light along the coast, and get ready—because August in the Basque Country is an unforgettable experience.