Things to see and do if you travel to the Basque Country this Christmas
01
Discovering the origins of Olentzero and Mari Domingi
Olentzero and Mari Domingi are the main protagonists of Christmas in the Basque Country. Do you want to know where they come from and what their function is? Find out on our blog #TuristaMaitea!
Discover the fascinating legend
02
Visit the Mirandaola Ironworks
Did you know that Olentzero is a charcoal burner? He usually goes to the Mirandaola Ironworks to take the charcoal that he produces in the forest. Come see how he works and meet Mari Domingi and Napoleon the donkey.
03
Excursion to the Christmas Amusement Parks
Known by the acronym PIN, in these spaces there is usually an extensive program of activities aimed at the most txikis. You will find merry-go-rounds, trampolines, zip lines and, above all, lots of fun!
For little ones and not so little ones!
04
Ice skating
Ice skating is one of the most typical activities at Christmas. In addition, more and more places are offering this activity for the whole family: in Irun, Vitoria-Gasteiz and Bilbao you will find ice rinks where you can have fun.
05
Walking through the Monumental Nativity Scene of Vitoria-Gasteiz
In the capital of Alava you can walk through a nativity scene made up of more than 200 life-size figures. It is one of the most important according to the World Federation of Nativity Scene.
You will be part of the Nativity Scene!
06
Search for unique gifts at the Christmas Markets
Are you still missing the gift of that loved one? Well, take a tour of the Christmas markets full of craft products from our capitals and find the perfect gift.
07
Tasting of typical Christmas sweets
In this blog post we tell you what our typical Christmas sweets are and, most importantly, where to buy them! Chocolate truffles, Basque Cake, Goxua... Just smelling them will make your mouth water.
The best souvenir for the family!
08
Enjoy the Christmas illuminations
Streets around the Basque Country are lit up with imaginative illuminations to spread the festive mood. Moreover, in some towns lighting the illuminations is a real event.
May the spirit of Christmas light your way!
09
Run the San Silvestre
On December 31, the popular San Silvestre race is celebrated in different Basque municipalities. In all of them, the festive tone prevails over the competitive one, which also has its space.
10
Ascent to the mountain to say goodbye or receive the year
It is one of the most deeply rooted traditions that we have to say goodbye to the year or toast for the one to come. Gorbea, Adarra or Zaldiaran are some of the mountains to which we went on December 31 or January 1 to finish and/or start the year on the right foot.
Prepare your New Year's resolutions!
More plans to do at Christmas as a family, as a couple or with friends
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