5 things to do in the Basque Country at Christmas

Experience the magic of this time of year in a place where people really live their traditions. Meet Olentzero and Mari Domingi, legendary figures of our land, try a hot talo and accompany it with some traditional sweet treats at the traditional markets that liven up our towns and villages.

Let yourself get carried away with the dazzle of the lights, the smell of roast chestnuts and the festive atmosphere that transforms our streets.

Idea 1. The Santo Tomás fair and stalls »

The Santo Tomás fair is one of the most traditional Christmas events here, with origins that date back centuries, to when farmers and stockbreeders brought down their produce to pay their rent and tithes.

St. Thomas' day marks the beginning of Christmas in the Basque Country. In cities like Bilbao or Donostia / San Sebastián you can find stalls selling local produce and freshly-made talos.
Idea 2. Christmas big wheel in Donostia / San Sebastián »

The big wheel in San Sebastián has become a veritable icon of the city. Every year, from mid-November onwards, the wheel stands beside La Concha beach, lighting up the promenade and offering one of the finest views of the bay from the top.

When you get right to the top of the big wheel, don't forget to take a photo - you can only get it at this time of year.
Idea 3. A monumental nativity scene in Vitoria-Gasteiz »

La Florida park in Vitoria-Gasteiz is filled with large figures to create a striking monumental nativity scene. Every year new scenes, with music and lights to enhance the atmosphere, are added, fitting perfectly into the setting of the park.
Idea 4. Christmas lights in Bilbao »

At this time of year, strolling round the illuminated streets of Bilbao is one of the most popular - and magical - things to do. The city, especially the Arenal neighbourhood, the Doña Casilda park and the Gran Vía, is filled with lights ad roast chestnut stands. These are the best places to take a few photos and live the traditions and magic of Christmas in the Basque Country.
Idea 5. Meet Olentzero and Mari Domingi »

This is the idea that will appeal the most to the smallest members of the family. Visit the Mirandaola ironworks to meet Mari Domingi and Olentzero, his trade of charcoal burning, his story - and all this through a storyteller.

You can also visit Olentzero's home in Izenaduba Basoa just 15 minutes from Bilbao. This theme park is packed with Christmas magic and the history of Basque mythology.

You can also see Olentzero, Mari Domingi and all their companions around the streets of our provincial capitals and lots of other places in the Basque Country on 23rd December in the afternoon or 24th in the morning.