Easter is a wonderful time to explore the Basque Country. The air starts to warm, the landscapes bloom, and towns come alive with age-old traditions and lively festivals. Whether you’re into culture, nature, or gastronomy, there’s something for every kind of traveler. Here are eight detailed ideas for how to make the most of your Easter holidays in Euskadi this year.
1. Living Passion in Balmaseda
Balmaseda, the first town founded in the province of Bizkaia, is famous for its intense and emotional Holy Week celebration. The Living Passion (Pasión Viviente) has been staged here since 1931 and involves hundreds of local volunteers. It’s not just a play—it’s a full-scale historical reenactment that turns the entire town into Jerusalem.
- When: Friday, April 18th.
- Times: The Trial of Jesus at 9:00 a.m. | The Via Crucis and Crucifixion at 8:00 p.m.
- Where: Throughout Balmaseda’s Old Town. Main scenes unfold near San Severino Square, the Old Bridge (Puente Viejo), and El Calvario.
- Good to know: The morning and evening events tell different parts of the story—watch both if you can. The entire town participates, so there’s an immersive, emotional atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere.
2. Centuries-Old Processions in Segura (April 17-18)
The tiny village of Segura, in the heart of Gipuzkoa, offers one of the most beautiful and authentic Holy Week experiences. With its preserved medieval architecture and candlelit processions, it feels like stepping back in time. These events have been held since the 1600s and still follow the original scripts and costumes.
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- Thursday, April 17th: Procession of the Arrest (El Prendimiento) at 9:00 p.m.
- Friday, April 18th: Procession of the Holy Burial (El Santo Entierro) at 8:00 p.m.
- Route: Through the stone-paved streets of the old quarter, starting and ending at the Parish Church.
- Why go: The silence, the torches, and the slow pace of the processions make this a spiritual and moving experience—even if you’re not religious.
3. The Unnailing Ceremony in Laguardia (April 18th)
Laguardia, capital of the Rioja Alavesa wine region, brings a touching and symbolic ritual to life each Easter: El Desenclave, or “The Unnailing.” This ceremony represents the moment Jesus is taken down from the cross, and it’s followed by a somber procession through the town.
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- When: Good Friday, April 18th, at 6:00 p.m.
- Where: Inside the stunning Church of Santa María de los Reyes, then out to the Main Square.
- What to expect: Hooded figures, emotional music, and a deeply respectful crowd.
- While you’re there: Take a walk through the underground wine cellars that run beneah the town and enjoy a glass of local Rioja wine in the sunshine.
4. Solemn Processions in Bilbao (April 13–20)
Bilbao’s Holy Week is among the most elaborate in the Basque Country. Eleven different brotherhoods participate in around 15 processions, many of them in the heart of the Old Town (Casco Viejo). The atmosphere is hushed, emotional, and steeped in centuries-old tradition.
- Thursday, April 17th: Nazareno Procession at 8:00 p.m.
- Friday, April 18th: Procession of Silence at 10:00 p.m.
- Route: Begins at Santiago Cathedral and winds through the narrow streets around Plaza Nueva.
- What makes it special: The lighting, music, and iconic pasos (religious floats) are mesmerizing, especially in the quiet of night.
- Tip: Arrive early to grab a spot near the Cathedral or Plaza Unamuno for the best view.
5. Basque Fest in Bilbao (April 16–19)
For a lighter and more festive take on Easter, Basque Fest is a cultural festival that transforms Bilbao into a stage for Basque creativity. It’s perfect for families, food lovers, music fans, and anyone who wants to experience the culture in a fun and modern way.
- Main venues: El Arenal for food and sports; Azkuna Zentroa, Sala BBK, and Kafe Antzokia for concerts and workshops.
- Don’t miss:
- Txoko Gourmet (El Arenal): Free cooking demos, local product tastings, and culinary activities (11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. & 4:30–8:00 p.m.).
- Herri Kirolak (Traditional Basque sports): Axe cutting, stone lifting, and tug-of-war exhibitions at 12:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.
- Theatrical boat rides on the Nervión River from Pío Baroja dock—fun and educational.
- Free live concerts featuring local and emerging Basque artists.
- Family-friendly: There are special zones for kids and plenty of street performers.
6. Nature Escapes: Urdaibai and San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
Not everything is about processions—Easter is also a great time to connect with the Basque Country’s stunning natural beauty. Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve is a paradise for walkers, birdwatchers, and sea lovers.
- Top hikes:
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- Oma Forest: A magical painted forest by artist Agustín Ibarrola, blending art and nature.
- Mundaka viewpoints: Stunning panoramic walks over the river estuary and cliffs.
- San Juan de Gaztelugatxe: One of the most iconic sites in Euskadi. Although the entry for Easter is fully booked, the viewpoint trails nearby still offer incredible photo opportunities.
- Travel tip: Go early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the peace.
7. Basque Flavours: Pintxos, Cider
No visit to the Basque Country is complete without indulging in its world-famous gastronomy. Whether you’re a foodie or just a curious traveler, Easter is a great time to eat like a local.
- Where to go:
- Pintxo tours in Bilbao’s Old Town, San Sebastián’s Parte Vieja, or Vitoria’s Virgen Blanca area.
- Cider houses in Hernani or Astigarraga—join in the txotx ritual, where you catch cider straight from the barrel.
- Wine tastings in Rioja Alavesa: Laguardia, Elciego, and Labastida are all home to charming family-run bodegas.
- Seasonal must-try: Torrijas (Spanish-style French toast) are a traditional Easter dessert you’ll find at most bakeries.
8. Vitoria-Gasteiz: Calm, Culture and Green Living
Vitoria-Gasteiz, the Basque capital, is often overshadowed by Bilbao and San Sebastián—but it’s a gem for travelers seeking a slower pace and greener surroundings. Its Holy Week processions are more intimate but equally atmospheric.
- Processions: Organized by the Brotherhood of the Vera Cruz, they include beautifully crafted pasos and candlelight.
- What to do:
- Visit the Santa María Cathedral, which inspired Ken Follett’s «World Without End.»
- Wander through the medieval streets of the Old Town.
- Cycle or walk around the Green Belt, a 33-km nature loop around the city.
- For families: Head to Salburua Wetlands to see deer, storks, and waterbirds from the observation platforms at the Ataria Nature Centre.
Ready to Spend Easter 2025 in the Basque Country
As spring breathes new life into the Basque Country, dressing its landscapes in vibrant colors and inviting the community to partake in a season of renewal, Easter emerges as a time of reflection, celebration, and unparalleled cultural immersion. Whether you’re drawn to the spiritual solemnity of traditional processions, the communal joy of open-air festivals, or the dynamic buzz of Bilbao’s city-wide extravaganza, there’s something in the Basque Country’s Easter celebrations for every traveler.
Don’t miss the chance to experience Easter in one of the most culturally rich regions of Spain.
Plan your visit to experience unique Basque festivities with Basqvium. Explore the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Basque Country during your trip. From the quiet villages to the bustling streets of Bilbao, let the spirit of Easter and the warmth of Basque hospitality fill your spring with unforgettable memories.
Book your trip now and dive into the vibrant Easter celebrations of the Basque Country