Euskadi This Week (May 30-June 5): Top Events and Weekend Plans

The Euskal Jaia of Getaria is an annual celebration that honors Basque culture in all its forms—music, dance, gastronomy, and popular traditions. Although the official details for the 2025 edition have not yet been announced, the event is traditionally held in late May, as in previous years.

Origins and Tradition

The Euskal Jaia (literally «Basque Festival») has its roots in the Basque cultural revival movements of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These movements aimed to preserve and promote Basque identity in the face of growing industrialization and cultural homogenization. The festivals became platforms to revitalize local customs, traditional dances, and the use of the Basque language (Euskara).

In Getaria, a coastal village with a strong sense of Basque heritage, the Euskal Jaia has become one of the most eagerly awaited celebrations of the year. The entire community actively participates in organizing and enjoying the festivities, showcasing a deep collective commitment to cultural preservation.

Typical Euskal Jaia Program

While the schedule may vary slightly each year, the typical activities include:

• Musical Parades: From early morning, groups of traditional musicians—txistularis (pipe players), trikitilaris (accordion players), and tambourine players—march through the old town, filling the streets with Basque melodies.

• Traditional Dances: In the town’s main square, dance groups perform iconic dances like the Larrain Dantza, often involving people of all ages.

• Irrintzi Contest: Participants compete to deliver the best irrintzi, a traditional Basque high-pitched celebratory shout.

• Romería and Concerts: The day ends with a lively romería (outdoor dance and gathering), often featuring local music groups.

• Local Gastronomy: Throughout the event, visitors can taste Basque specialties such as talos (corn flatbreads) and txakoli, the region’s characteristic white wine.

The Euskal Jaia of Getaria is more than just a festive occasion—it is a living expression of Basque identity, a space where cultural heritage is proudly celebrated and passed on to new generations.