Follow this part of the trail
8 articles
Every December 21, Bilbao's Plaza Nueva and El Arenal fill with farmers, artisans, and families for the Santo Tomás Fair. Expect Basque cheeses, chistorra, talo, txakoli, and the sounds of txalaparta and trikitixa. This guide covers what to eat, where to go, and how to enjoy this pre-Christmas tradition.
Bilbao's Aste Nagusia festival revolves around food and drink. This guide explains what txosnas are, where to find them near El Arenal, what to order—like bocadillos and chistorra with a zurito—and how to balance tent-hopping with pintxos routes in the old town.
Aste Nagusia, or Semana Grande, is Bilbao's biggest street festival, held for nine days in late August. From the rocket launch at the Arriaga Theatre to free concerts, txosnas along El Arenal, nightly fireworks, and parades of giants, it's a nonstop celebration of Basque culture. Learn what to expect, how to plan, and why you should join the crowds.
Bilbao BBK Live is one of Europe's most distinctive city festivals, set on the Kobetamendi hillside above Bilbao with views of the city and the Basque countryside. Held each July, this multi-genre event combines international headliners with deep electronic programming, Basque culture, and a strong sustainability ethos. Our guide covers the venue, getting there, tickets, accommodation, what to pack, and how to make the most of the surrounding city.
Bilbao's carnival, known locally as Aratuste, is a pre-Lenten celebration filled with parades, costume contests, and unique Basque traditions. Learn about the trial of Farolín and Zarambolas, the burning of the sardine, and how to plan your visit to this lively event in the Basque Country.
Getting to Bilbao BBK Live at Kobetamendi means choosing between a reserved shuttle, a free bus, a long walk, or a taxi. This guide compares each option, explains departure points near San Mamés and the BEC, and outlines road closures and what to know before you go.
Aste Nagusia, Bilbao's Great Week, turns the city into a massive open-air celebration each August. For first-time visitors, grasping the basics—when it runs, how the free events work, and where to find the action—makes all the difference. This guide covers the essential logistics and cultural notes to help you navigate the festival like a well-prepared traveler.
The kalejira is a lively street parade of giants and cabezudos that takes place during Aste Nagusia in Bilbao. It has deep roots in the festival's history and offers a family-friendly way to experience Basque culture. Learn what to expect and how to find the procession.
