Big Week in Bilbao

The Great Week of Bilbao , also known as Aste Nagusia , is an emblematic celebration that takes place in the city of Bilbao, in the Basque Country, Spain . This festivity, which is celebrated in mid-August, is one of the most anticipated of the summer and attracts thousands of visitors from different parts of the country and abroad.

Origins and History of Semana Grande

The origins of Bilbao's Semana Grande go back to the 19th century, when the city began to celebrate an agricultural and livestock fair in honor of the Virgen de Begoña , patron saint of Bilbao. Over time, this fair developed into a larger celebration that spanned a full week, filled with cultural, sporting, and entertainment activities. La Semana Grande acquired its current name, Aste Nagusia, in Basque, the native language of the Basque Country, meaning " Great Week ". Over the years, this festivity has evolved and has become one of the main popular festivals in Bilbao and the entire region.

Events and Traditions of the Big Week

Bilbao's Semana Grande is a unique combination of traditions, music, dance, sports and cultural events that attract people of all ages. Some of the main activities and traditions of the Aste Nagusia include:

Txupinazo: The party officially begins with the " txupinazo ", a ceremony in which a rocket is launched from the balcony of the Town Hall to announce the start of Semana Grande. It is an exciting and festive moment in which the people of Bilbao and visitors come together to welcome the party.

Booths and Booths: During the Big Week, numerous booths and booths are set up in different parts of the city. In these spaces, concerts, dances, Basque gastronomy tastings and activities for the whole family are held.

Bullfights: The Aste Nagusia includes bullfights in the Plaza de Toros de Vista Alegre, a tradition rooted in the bullfighting culture of the Basque Country.

Parades and Giants and Bigheads : The parades of giants and bigheads are an essential part of Semana Grande. Large papier-mâché figures parade through the streets of Bilbao, accompanied by music and traditional dances.

Fireworks Shows : Every night, impressive fireworks shows are carried out in the Bilbao estuary, lighting up the sky and creating a magical and festive atmosphere.

Basque Rural Sports: Basque rural sports, such as stone lifting events and stone dragging competitions, are also part of the Semana Grande programming, highlighting the cultural heritage of the region.

Gastronomy of the Big Week

Bilbao's Semana Grande is also an opportunity to enjoy delicious Basque gastronomy. During the fiesta, the city's bars and restaurants offer a wide variety of pintxos, small portions of culinary delights typical of the Basque Country, ranging from tasty seafood morsels to delicious meat and cheese preparations. Also, street food is an essential part of Aste Nagusia. The food stalls offer a selection of traditional dishes such as churros, hot dogs, caramelized almonds and other treats to satisfy the cravings of the attendees.

The Festive Spirit and Citizen Participation

Bilbao's Semana Grande is much more than a series of events and traditions; It is a reflection of the festive spirit and hospitality of the people of Bilbao. During these days, the streets of the city are filled with people of all ages and nationalities, sharing laughter, dancing and good times. Citizen participation is essential for the success of the Aste Nagusia, and the people of Bilbao come together to decorate the streets, dress in traditional costumes and celebrate their culture and identity together.