For nine days, from August 22 to 30, joy and culture take over the city’s streets. Thousands of people will gather to enjoy the unique atmosphere of Semana Grande | Aste Nagusia, one of the most iconic and well-attended celebrations in the Basque Country.
A century-old tradition with a folk spirit
To understand the significance of Bilbao’s Semana Grande, we must go back to 1978, when various local associations launched a contest to solicit ideas for livening up the city’s summers.
That initiative gave rise to the festival we know today, whose opening highlight is the traditional txupinazo and the reading of the opening proclamation. At that moment, the iconic Marijaia appears on the balcony of the Arriaga Theater to kick off nine days of festivities renowned worldwide.
A world-class cultural showcase
One of the true highlights of Aste Nagusia is its impressive musical lineup, which this year will feature more than 100 free performances spread across 9 venues throughout the city. The lineup stands out for its diversity of genres, combining pop, rock, electronic music, classical, Basque folk, and world music at various locations such as:
Abandoibarra, rightthe Guggenheim Museum, this large stage will host major evening concerts featuring established acts such as Zea Mays, Leire Martínez, Bebe, and M-Clan, along with special performances such as the collaboration between the band Urtz and the Bilbao Orkestra Sinfonikoa (BOS).
At Parque Europa, the latest rhythms will come together with a young crowd. Highlights include the highly anticipated performance by the popular Basque band En Tol Sarmiento on August 26, as well as the urban pop and electronic music sessions scheduled throughout the week.
The city will also feature iconic venues such as the hall Bilborock, a leading figure in emerging pop-rock and metal; the Evaristo Churruca Pier, dedicated to world music; the Church of the Incarnation for the classical music series; and the classic Pergola in Doña Casilda Park, where the traditional “bilbainadas” will ring out.
An exclusive dining experience at El Mirador restaurant
To celebrate such a significant occasion, we at the abba Euskalduna Hotel have designed a Special Aste Nagusia Menu, available at our restaurant El Mirador, located on the hotel’s terrace with spectacular views of the Bilbao estuary.
From August 22 to 29, during lunch service, this will be the only option available in the restaurant, and we strongly recommend making a reservation in advance. For dinner service, this festive menu will be available as an option, though it is available exclusively by advance reservation.
