Virgin Begoña Festival

Aste Nagusia is a must for all those who wish to discover the festive spirit of Bilbao which, over a 10-day period, is transformed into a major centre of festivities and entertainment for people of all ages. The celebrations begin on the Saturday following the festival of Nuestra Señora de Begoña on August 15.

The international fireworks competition lights up the sky every night until the day when, sadly, the inhabitants of “El Botxo” have to submerge the figure of “Marijaia” in the waters of the river until the following year. Semana Grande is the biggest festival in northern Spain. Dedicated to the Virgin of Begoña, affectionately known as Amatxu, or Mother, to the Basques, this is a celebration of Basque heritage as much as religion. Most of the inhabitants of the city take a week off – so don’t expect all the shops to be open, or you’ll be disappointed – and simply take part in one of Europe’s most exhilarating street parties.