The place to be_en

The Place to BE 2024 A land for winning in

• FINAL OF THE UEFA WOMEN’S CHAMPIONS LEAGUE IN SAN MAMÉS

• Music festivals and international concerts to vibrate to the rhythm of pop, rock, blues, jazz, classical, indie, folk…

• Festivals with identity, fairs and shows for you to discover our roots and culture “in situ”

• Sports competitions in incomparable natural and urban settings

MUSIC 6

Cover: UEFA

Edition: January 2024

Publisher: Bilbao Ekintza EPEL

This card offers savings and convenience for planning your stay in Bilbao Bizkaia, both on public transport and for tickets to museums, shows, restaurants, shops and other leisure spaces. Ask for it at any Bilbao Tourist office or at: www.bilbaobizkaiacard.com

BE BASQUE 28

www.reservabilbaobizkaia.eus/es/

Production and contents: CGBarrios Comunicación SL

Photographs: Archivos de Bilbao Turismo, Bizkaia Turismo, Ayuntamiento de Bilbao, Basquetour, UEFA, Athletic Club, Athletic Club Fundazioa, Last Tour, Dekker Events, Ayuntamiento de Getxo, BIBA!, Enkartur, Bilbao Orkestra Sinfonikoa, Bilbao Blues Festival, LetsGo Company, ABAO-OLBE, BOS, Innevento Sports, Street Marketing, Orbea, BideBike, Joselure, Charly López OCETA, Naike Foto Sport OCETA, Punta Galea Txirrindulari Elkartea, Punta Galea Challenge Surf (PGCH), Eraman!, No Media Estudio, Txelu Angoitia-Gerediaga Elkartea, Ayuntamiento de Gernika, Ayuntamiento de Ondarroa, Ayuntamiento de Lekeitio, Ayuntamiento de Bermeo, Ayuntamiento de Balmaseda, Ayuntamiento de Orduña, Ayuntamiento de Mundaka, Borja Cuervo, Miguel Sabino Díaz, Jon Villapún, Museo Guggenheim Bilbao, Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao, Getxophoto, FIG Bilbao, JA! Bilbao, KCD (Kultura, Communication y Desarrollo), Seriesland, Mendifilm Festival, Zinegoak, Zinebi, Zinemakumeak, Elai Alai Kultur Elkartea, Ayuntamiento de Leioa, Ayuntamiento de Arrigorriaga, Areatza Musik & Beer, AZL.

Printing: Grafilur LG BI 17-2023

Bilbao BBK Live (11-13 July)

BIME (October)

Bilbao Blues Festival (26-28 July)

BBK Bilbao Music Legends Fest (14 and 15 June)

Getxo Folk BBK (11-15 September)

Getxo Jazz (3-7 July)

Maz Basauri (November)

Musika Bizian (October)

Pozalagua Festival (August)

Areatza Musik&Beer (31 May-1 June)

Musika-Música (1-3 March)

BOS (all year)

ABAO OLBE (all year)

BAS Bilbao Arte Sacro (22-26 March)

CINEMA

50

Aste Nagusia (17-25 August)

Bilbao Basque FEST 2024 (March)

Balmaseda Living Passion (March)

Gabonak (December)

Santo Tomás Fair (21 December)

Last Monday in Gernika (28 October)

Durangoko Azoka (5-8 December)

Eusko Label Winter Series (October-February)

Women Winter Series (February-March)

Kantauri Fest de Zierbena (October)

Otxomaios in Orduña (8 May)

The Day of the Geese in Lekeitio (5 September)

Arrantzale Eguna in Bermeo (September)

Zapato Azule (Blue Saturday) in Ondarroa(June)

Feast of la Magdalena (22 July)

Zinebi 66 (8-15 November)

Zinemakumeak gara! (17-28 October)

Fant (3-11 May)

BBK Mendi Film Festival (December)

Thinking Football Film Festival (September)

Zinegoak (June and July)

Invisible Film Festival (October)

Bilbao Seriesland (October)

SPORTS 18

Final of the UEFA Women’s Champions League (25 May)

Total Energies Bilbao Night Marathon (19 October)

Bilbao Triathlon (14 September)

Orbea Klasika Bilbao Bizkaia (18 May)

Itzulia Basque Country (1-6 April)

Itzulia Women (10-12 May)

Getxo Circuit (31 July)

Occident Bilbao-Bilbao (17 March)

Laboral Kutxa Bilbao Mendi Trail (21 April)

Punta Galea Challenge (February)

Bilbao Guggenheim Museum (all year)

Bilbao Fine Arts Museum (all year)

Gutun Zuria (28 March -1 April)

FIG (November)

Gau Zuria (June)

Getxophoto (6-30 June)

JA! Bilbao Festival (September and October)

Bilbao International Games Conference (December)

Open House Bilbao (October)

MusEkintza (from September to November)

56

BAD (12-17 October)

Bilboko Kalealdia (1-6 July)

Portugalete International Folklore Festival (July)

Magiaren Topaketa (Mayo)

Arrigorriaga International Clown Festival (May)

Umore Azoka Leioa (from 16 to 19 May)

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Addresses, telephone numbers, links...

Historic final in Bilbao

UEFA Women’s Champions League 2024

The most important women’s football event in Europe is coming to Bilbao on 25 May. San Mamés stadium, known as The Cathedral, is to host the grand finale of the UEFA Women’s Champions League 2024, transforming the capital of Biscay into a festival of women’s football. The event represents a magnificent opportunity to remind society that the value of equality between women and men is indisputable.

Bilbao Bizkaia’s position as host to this event is coupled with its long footballing tradition. Athletic Club, an organisation with 125 years of history and the unique philosophy of drawing its players exclusively from among Basque footballers, is a strong promoter of women’s football, as the five league titles of its players, known as the lions testify. Its extraordinary number of fans has achieved records at European level for attendance at its matches, such as in 2019, when 48,121 spectators came together at San Mamés.

Just like its football club, Bilbao Bizkaia authentically combines tradition and modernity to offer unique and intriguing experiences. Gastronomy, culture, nature and ancestral history form the winning hand to offer a top-quality proposal that can be adapted to suit all tastes and customs.

Sample typical pintxos in any bar and restaurant area, enjoy the beauty of the Guggenheim Bilbao Bilbao, be entertained by the diverse theatre and concert programme, or explore spectacular beaches and natural landscapes that will remain etched on your mind forever. Do not miss the lively local festivities, a chance to discover typical products and the traditions that shape our ancient identity at first-hand. This guide is a passport to leisure and entertainment. Take this guide with you on your visit and use it to make sure you don’t miss any of all that Bilbao Bizkaia has to offer.

MUSIC ADULTS at record pace

One of the biggest festivals of music on the international scene is celebrating its eighteenth edition. The leading genres that make Bilbao BBK Live what it is are pop-rock and electronic music. This huge event, which in the last edition beat records with over 120,000 participants from 75 countries, has provided the stage for concerts and artists as iconic as Coldplay, Blondie, Green Day, Guns N’ Roses, Muse, The Black Crowes, Pearl Jam, Red Hot Chilli Peppers or The Police,and more recently, Rosalía, Stromae, Nathy Peluso, Pet Shop Boys, Amaya, Arctic Monkeys or Florence and The Machine.

The quality of the festival show bill is combined with the idyllic setting in which it is held: Kobetamendi grounds, on the side of Mount Kobetas, very close to Bilbao. What’s more, the programme extends to other parts of the city through Bilbao BBK Live Bereziak, a series of smaller concerts.

OUR BEACHES

Nature and relaxation under the sun

Beautiful spots along the coast of Bizkaia may serve as the perfect counterpart to the intensity of a day at Bilbao BBK Live. Going from powerful music shows to relaxing and resting under the sun and enjoying a swim at the beaches of Arrigunaga (Getxo), BarinatxeLa Salvaje (between Sopela and Getxo), Plentzia or Gorliz is a real luxury. And if the perfect break from the festival is a bit of surfing, we recommend you visit Sopela, Bakio or Mundaka. As you can see, there is a wide variety of quality options to choose from; what’s more, you can get to most of these beaches thanks to the direct connection with Metro Bilbao.

How to get there?

There are several options making direct access to Kobetamendi easy. Bilbao BBK Live offers a free bus service. The festival bracelet is required to board the bus. It leaves from the EITB headquarters (calle Capuchinos de Bilbao) and from the BEC! (Bilbao Exhibition Centre), next to Ansio metro station.

If you are planning on going with a motorhome, BEC! has set up a special carpark with 70 plots. What’s more, Metro Bilbao offers a special night-time service throughout the event. Are you still thinking about it?

City:

Main Venue:

Dates:

Bilbao

Kobetamendi

11, 12 and 13 July

Sopela

MUSIC and meetings of the

InDustry CONCERTS BIME

October City: Main Venue: Dates:

Bilbao Salas de Bilbao

info bime.org

The professional side of BIME, BIME Pro is a hive of networking conferences, talks, speedmeetings, masterclasses, workshops… Professional audiences and music lovers in general have the opportunity to catch up on the latest from the industry from mainstream voices. Promoters, institutions, producers, associations and companies from areas linked to technology, gaming, leisure, marketing or communications come together at this key meeting in the music industry.

BIMELIVE BIMEPRO

An unmissable event for lovers of live music with a free access programme taking place at the different stages and outdoor spaces in the city. BIME Live is the quintessential festival of showcases for up-and-coming Latin musicians, where you will enjoy a wide range of styles including trap, pop, flamenco, reggaeton, r&b and electronic music. Promising up-and-coming musicians showcase their talent on the stages before festival programmers, managers, journalists and other players from the industry.

BIME Live thus seeks to bring its programme closer to both the professional public that attends the music congress and the final public, democratising access to culture and becoming a celebration of music that is committed to new artistic talent. BIME has been held in Bilbao since 2013, and in Bogotá (Colombia) since 2022. It has become established as one of the meeting places of reference for the Spanish-speaking music industry. BIME is the perfect event for creating synergies and facilitating artistic and professional flows across continents, doing business, sharing knowledge, discovering new talent and keeping up with the latest developments in the Creative and Cultural Industries (CCIs). Without a doubt, the perfect event for artists, professionals, companies and audiences directly or indirectly linked to music.

9

MUSIC

PARTY roots in Bilbao

The third edition of the Bilbao Blues Festival promises to once again transform the Arenal of Bilbao into a huge party. This popular free musical event registered spectacular figures of attendance in its first two years, and has earned the right to be considered as one of the public’s favourite events in the summer.

The festival has managed to create strong links with the city right from its first edition. This is why its arrival is waited for with great enthusiasm.

The Bilbao Blues Festival bill is characterised by its eclectic nature, combining subgenres from the blues and related styles, including soul, jump blues and rhythm and blues, and by the high quality of the concerts, lively and authentic in substance and form, inviting regulars and fans to dance and celebrate alongside those who are less expert or there for the first time.

Leading international figures from the genre have performed on its stages. These include Shemekia Copeland, Ronnie Baker Brooks, Fantastic Negrito, Bette Smith, The Cinelli Brohers, The Original Blues Brothers Band, Vasti Jackson and The Mississippi Trinity, Ghalia Volt and Shakura S’Aida, with a special mention for legends Bob Stroger and Rick Estrin, who received the event’s official award in the first two editions. Groups such as La Mambo Jambo Arkestra, Koko-Jean and The Tonics, The Big Flyers, Travellin’ Brothers, Indigo Blues and Noa & The Hell Drinkers are good examples of the excellent health of local and national blues.

City:

Bilbao

Main Venue: Dates:

Arenal

26, 27 and 28 July

As well as top level musical performances, the Bilbao Blues Festival runs parallel activities such as the interesting educational concerts at the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, the entertaining swing and boogie-woogie classes at the Arenal, which enjoy a very high level of participation, and the popular parades through the Historic Centre and neighbouring areas with the aroma of New Orleans thanks to the Dixie band Granujas a todo ritmo.

Enjoy the best of Bilbao and let the Blues tunes carry you away!

Vasti Jackson and Shakura S’Aida

Rick Estrin & The Nightcats

MUSIC

City:

Bilbao

Main Venue:

Bilbao Arena

Dates:

14 and 15 June

BBK BILBAO

MusIC LEGEnDs FEST

Leading names in music at the Bilbao Arena. This festival, where artists as renowned as John Cale, Mavis Staples, Chris Isaak, Van Morrison, Jeff Beck, Wilko Johnson, Jethro Tull or The Beach Boys have performed, is a golden opportunity for admiring the talent of cult legends live. Legendary groups such as Deep Purple and Canned Heat have confirmed their presence at this year’s edition. The firmly established BBK Music Legends Fest, which was sold out by the second day last year, is one of the highlights of the cultural offer in Bilbao. Don’t miss it! info musiclegendsfestival.com

GEtXO JAZZ

real benchmark of the genre at national and international level. This festival combines the performances of great icons from the world of jazz with new talents. As well as concerts, the programme includes a contest of groups, jam sessions, exhibitions and street parades. A

GEtXO FOLK BBK

One of the most multicultural and diverse festivals found in Euskadi today, Getxo Folk BBK is celebrating its 40th anniversary. A variety of rhythms and styles will get the audience moving on the stage at Muxikebarri. Discover new musical ideas and enjoy bands from all over the world in a festive atmosphere.

City:

Main Venue:

Dates:

Getxo

Muxikebarri

from 11 to 15 September

City:

Main Venue:

Getxo

Muxikebarri and Plaza

Estación Algorta

Dates:

From 3 to 7 July

Chris Isaak

Dave Holland (double bass) and Jaleel Shawn (sax)

Las Migas

MUSIC MAZ BAsAurI

Are you a lover of independent music? If so, MAZ Basauri is made for you. Outstanding groups from the national music scene such as La M.O.D.A, Sidonie, Maika Makovski, Xoel López, Christina Rosenvinge, Viva Suecia and Triángulo de Amor Bizarro have already been on the Social Antzokia stage in previous editions. For one weekend, Basauri becomes the epicentre of alternative beats. Have fun!

City:

Main Venue:

Basauri

Social Antzokia and free concerts

In the street

Dates: mazbasauri.com

November

POZALAGuA FEstIVAL

Aunique environment, Armañón Natural Park, located in the Karrantza district, is host to this festival that includes music, theatrical and comedy shows performed in an auditorium carved into the mountain. This stage is next to Pozalagua caves, internationally recognised for their unusual eccentric stalactites. A very special show!

visitenkarterri.com

Main Venue:

Dates:

August City:

Karrantza

Auditorium

(Armañón Natural Park)

This year, the charity festival Musika Bizian is celebrating their tenth edition in order to raise awareness about the music, cultures and languages of stateless nations. In previous editions, music from Transylvania, Sicily, Kurdistan, the Faroe Isles, Cornwall, Brittany and Kosovo has been heard.

Musika Bizian, organised by Andra Mari Dantza Taldea, incorporates interesting activities in its programme that run in parallel including a Luthiers’ fair and street entertainment.

City: Main Venue:

Galdakao Plaza Iturrondo

andramaridantzataldea.net

The small and charming village of Areatza hosts this sustainable festival where rock, folk, rhythm & blues and funk come together. It also has a special section for tasting the many zero-Km craft beers, including non-alcoholic and glutenfree beers. The event is organised by Areatza Musik and Brewing Musika eta Kultura Elkartea and many renowned artists have played there, including Jared James Nichols, The Soul Jacket, Laura Cox Band and La Perra Blanco. An excellent musical and culinary atmosphere awaits you at Areatza Musik & Beer. What’s more, it is a chance to discover the scenic, artistic and monumental attractions of the Arratia Valley.

City: Main Venue:

Dates: Areatza Gudarien Plaza, 7 31 May - 1 June

October

musikandbeer.eus

Dates:

City:

Main Venue:

Bilbao Arriaga Theatre, Euskalduna Conference Centre...

Dates:

1, 2 and 3 March

musika-musica.bilbao.eus

BOS

Bilbao symphony orchestra

The Bilbao Symphony Orchestra (BOS) gave its first concert on 8 March 1922 at the Arriaga Theatre, under the baton of Armand Marsick. A century later, it continues to be hugely successful thanks to the top quality and variety of its programme. The programme of symphony, chamber, and educational concerts for all the family is complemented by workshops, conferences and talks which take place at its base, Euskalduna Conference Centre.

City:

Main Venue:

Bilbao

Euskalduna Conference Centre

MusikaMúsica

Grand classical programme

The Bilbao festival of classical music, which last year programmed more than 70 performances given by almost 1500 musicians at the Arriaga Theatre and in different halls of the Euskalduna Conference Centre simultaneously, offers something to suit all tastes. This is one of the grand festivals of classical music in terms of both audience and career path; symphonies, chamber music, recitals and opera, sessions for families... A wide range of quality concerts that aims to promote this genre and provide support for young musicians.

City:

Main Venue:

Bilbao

Euskalduna Conference Centre

Dates:

All year round

bilbaorkestra.eus

BAS

Bilbao Arte Sacro

Bilbao Arte Sakratua

The twentieth edition of the BAS sacred music cycle includes a broad programme with musicians specialised in sacred and baroque music who will go on stage at the Bilbao Philharmonic Society, founded in 1896, a chamber hall with some of the best acoustics in Europe. This recital, organised by the City Council of Bilbao, is one of the most eagerly awaited cultural events of the season.

Bilbao Association of of Friends of the Opera

Dates:

All year round

musika-musica.bilbao.eus/programa-bas/

he season of the Bilbao Association of Friends of the Opera (ABAO OLBE) opens with three bel canto masterpieces: Abduction from the Seraglio (20, 23, 26 and 29 January), Rigoletto (17, 20, 23 and 26 February) and La Bohème (18, 21, 24 and 27 May).

As occurs every year, it will also prepare free educational programmes (talks, workshops, conferences) and host first nights and performances for children as part of ABAO Txiki.

abao.org

City:

Main Venue:

Dates: T

Bilbao

Philharmonic Society

from 22 to 26 March

SPORTS

FInAL OF thE

uEFA WOMEn’s ChAMPIOns LEAGuE

Bilbao Bizkaia comes before the world at San Mamés stadium on 25 May to host the match of all matches in European women’s football: the final of the UEFA Women’s Champions League.

In a context of increasing awareness and global recognition of women in this sport, especially after the successful celebration of the World Cup Australia and New Zealand which crowned Spain as champions, the media are turning towards Bilbao, a city with a marked female football DNA thanks to the lions of the Athletic Club, five-time winners of the League title, and with a highly successful career.

The colourful and exciting atmosphere of the fans of the two finalists will take over the capital of Bizkaia on the day on which we find out who will follow Barcelona F.C. as the champions of Europe or whether the so-called culés will manage to retain the title.

A total of 16 teams, including Barcelona F.C., with its fabulous world champions Aitana Bonmatí -Ballon d’Or and best player in the World Cup- Irene Paredes and Alexia Putellas at the fore, aspire to play in the final of this tournament, which is expected to be more competed for and evenly matched than ever before.

Teams such as Olympique from Lyon, Bayern from Munich, Paris Saint Germain, Roma, Ajax and Chelsea, are lined up as favourites alongside the Catalans to play the grand finale on 25 May in The Cathedral

Athletic Experience and prematch in Pozas

We recommend you make the most of your visit to Bilbao to discover the history of the red and white club with the Athletic Experience. Visit the Athletic Club Museoa, the trophy and exhibition hall, which contains more than a century of football in its permanent collection. A historic journey which can be combined with an exclusive tour, lasting approximately 45 minutes, of the stadium, including a visit to the field, changing rooms, press room, presidential box, central ring and VIP zone, on a guided tour in groups or individually.

The atmosphere surrounding a football match at San Mamés is always something special, and is mainly concentrated in the busy calle Licenciado Poza, known as Pozas, a long artery that connects directly with the stadium itself. This is where the fans of the contenders gather to warm up before the match, singing, drinking a kalimotxo (a typical drink which mixes red wine with Coca Cola) or eating pintxos (cuisine in miniature) at any of the numerous bars and restaurants before heading to the Cathedral.

info

es.uefa.com/womenschampionleague/

City:

Dates:

Bilbao 25 May

TALENT POOL and victories

Bilbao Bizkaia’s commitment to women’s football comes from a long way back. The firm commitment of many clubs from Bizkaia such as, for example, Bizkerre (Getxo), Leioako Emakumeak and Elorrio to the development and promotion of their pool of players and, in particular that of Athletic Club since the creation of the section in 2002, has made a deep impression on the fans, who enthusiastically celebrate the victories of their players.

In the case of the club from Bilbao, in the 20-year career of the women’s team, it has won five First Division league titles and three sub-championships, and has taken part in the UEFA Women’s Champions League on five occasions.

Footballers such as Erika Vázquez (423 matches and 264 goals), Eli Ibarra (413 matches and 111 goals), Nekane Díez (381 matches and 162 goals) or Iraia Iturregi (402 matches and 64 goals) are considered as inspiration thanks to their great statistics and loyalty to the club.

SAN MAMÉS Records in women’s football

The red and white fans have taken centre stage at several moments that went down in the history of women’s football. The Copa de la Reina match between the lions and Atlético de Madrid on 29 January 2019, when 48,121 spectators filled San Mamés, a historic record for attendance at national, European level and second largest in the world remains in their memory.

On 27 April 2003, the former San Mamés filled with 35,000 supporters to watch a match that gave the League title to the red and white players. One month later, on 30 March, these players played their first match in The Cathedral, assembling together 23,000 people.

These events which are so well-remembered are examples of the passion with which women’s football is experienced in Bilbao and which is bound to be reflected in the final of the UEFA Women’s Champions League on 25 May.

Celebration of the first Superleague title, 2003

14 September

TOTALENERGIES BILBAO Night Marathon

Unbeatable night-time experience through Bilbao

Professional athletes and lovers of running can enjoy the experience offered by the TotalEnergies

Bilbao Night Marathon, one of the most spectacular sporting events in the Bizkaiain city. This night-time run passes by emblematic buildings in Bilbao, such as San Mamés stadium, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, Euskalduna Conference Centre, the Zubi Zuri footbridge and Gran Vía. A marathon through the heart of the city, celebrated with a number of live shows and fireworks. It is considered one of the top 50 races in the world and levels of participation continue to rise year after year. The TotalEnergies Bilbao Night Marathon, which is celebrating its 15th edition, offers three distances: marathon (42 km), half marathon (21 km) and the Pirate’s race (10 km).

BILBAO Triathlon

Swim, run and cycle in the heart of Bizkaia

Swimming segment: 1.9 km

Cycling segment: 82.5 km

Running segment: 21 km info bilbaotriathlon.com info totalenergiesbilbaomarathon.com

The Bilbao Triathlon, which this year celebrates its 13th edition, is particularly attractive, making it one of the favourite races of national and international triathletes. It starts at Itsasmuseum Bilbao with the swimming sector: almost two kilometres along the Bilbao Estuary. Once on their bikes, participants face an 82.5 km circuit which crosses over Euskalduna Bridge and up the mountains surrounding Bilbao. Next, on foot, comes a 21-kilometre urban race through the heart of the capital of Bizkaia. This sporting event attracts a huge number of fans who take to the streets and create an exceptional atmosphere all along the route.

Dates:

Bilbao 18 May City:

OrBEA KLAsIKA BILBAO BIZKAIA

The Orbea Klasika Bilbao Bizkaia is celebrating its fourth edition established as a benchmark for lovers of cycling. The race starts from the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and travels along roads and through emblematic landscapes in Bizkaia, alternating between mountains and coastal regions of great beauty. There are two routes to choose from, one which is more demanding and the other more attainable.

The 79th edition of the classic cycling race, the Getxo Circuit-Memorial Hermanos Otxoa, organised by SC Punta Galea, is a one-day race leaving from the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. It follows an attractive route along the roads of Bizkaia to finish at Plaza de los Fueros (Getxo).

Several teams from the World Tour category take part in this race, making it particularly attractive.

As 2024 is an Olympic year, the Getxo Circuit, traditionally held on 31 July to coincide with the San Ignacio festivities, will take place on 11 August this year.

Getxo

11 August City: Dates:

Itzulia BAsQuE COuntry

The most important stage race in the Basque calendar once again will pass through Bizkaia, Gipuzkoa, Araba and Navarra between 1 and 6 April. The 63rd edition of the Itzulia Basque Country, which forms part of the World Tour 2024 calendar of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), will attract many of the great stars of this sport.

Itzulia WOMEn

The best cyclists in the world have a date with Euskadi from 10 to 12 May. Over three days, the athletes cycle along the Basque roads in the third edition of this race, which is over 300 kilometres long.

itzulia.eus

City: Dates:

Santurtzi and Amorebieta-Etxano

1 and 6 April

City: Dates:

Ondarroa, Lekeitio, Orduña and Amurrio

10, 11 and 12 May

Occident

BILBAO-BILBAO

Authentic cycling along the roads of Bizkaia

Short: 85 km + 800 m.

Classic: 115 km + 1200 m.

Vivero: 125 km + 1600 m.

Ahuge festive event that floods Bizkaia with bikes.

The great Bilbao classic smacks of authentic cycling. Anyone who practices this sport is bound to have the International Cycling Event, now in its 35th edition, marked in red on their calendar. This is a unique event, with no classifications, with staged start times and it is open to anyone who wishes to take part. Everything depends on the person’s wishes and abilities. Year after year, a group of over 7000 brave men and women tackle one of the three routes offered.

17 March City: Dates: puntagalea.com

Bilbao

SPORTS

LABORAL KUTXA PuntA GALEA

LABORAL KUTXA BILBAO Mendi Trail

LFamily run: 9 km

Mountain run: 21 km

Mountain half Marathon: 21 km

Challenge

aboral Kutxa Bilbao Menditrail is the perfect excuse for both families and demanding athletes to enjoy the beauty of the mountain surrounding the capital of Bizkaia. Starting in Miribilla and finishing at the Itsasmuseum Bilbao, this race, which combines nature and sport, has three courses to suit all tastes: family run, mountain run and Mountain half marathon.

The Bizkaia town of Getxo hosts, year after year, the longest-standing surfing competition in Europe and one of the seven competitions that form part of the Big Wave Tour. The Laboral Kutxa Punta Galea Challenge attracts many of the best surfers in the world, who ride waves of at least six metres in height. A real show to watch.

City:

Dates:

Bilbao

21 April

laboralkutxabilbaomenditrail.com

City:

Getxo

Main Venue:

Punta Galea

Dates:

Between January and March

worldsurfleague.com

VISIT BIZKAIA BRIDGE

An engineering feat declared a World Heritage Site

Bizkaia Bridge, popularly known as the Puente Colgante (Hanging Bridge) and declared a World Heritage Site in 2006, joins the two banks of the Bilbao Estuary between Portugalete and the Getxo district of Las Arenas. An impressive 61 metres tall and 140 metres long, it enabled communication between the two seaside towns without obstructing shipping from the port, which in its day was one of the busiest in Europe.

Designed by Alberto Palacio Elissague, it was opened on 28 July 1893, the first transporter bridge in the world to be constructed with a metal structure.

We recommend a visit; as well as a gem of industrial heritage, it has a long history behind it. You can get there easily by bus or on the metro. puente-colgante.com

BE BASQUE

The BIGGEst week in BILBAO AstE nAGusIA

The Aste Nagusia or Big Week of Bilbao are 9 days of festivities where you will always be able to find a plan to suit you. The opening speech and the txupin launched from the balconies of the Arriaga Theatre are the signal to start an intense programme of activities. The beloved Marijaia, the undeniable star of the festivities, symbolizes happiness and a participatory spirit, and encourages everyone to join in the fun.

The Big Week will make you enjoy an endless number of events in the streets. In the daytime, be swept away by the performances of txistularis and Basque dancing, parades, workshops, culinary events, markets, children’s games, street theatre and sports championships. Come the night, take part in the verbenas (open-air festivities), the firework competition, the fire bulls and the concerts. Immersed in a great atmosphere, both by day and by night, is the Barracas fairgound in Etxebarria Park, also the location of the circus. The popular txosnas (stalls with music, food and drink) set up on both banks of Bilbao Estuary and adjacent to the Old Quarter are, particularly late at night, the nerve centre of the festivities.

Bilbao

All the city 17-25 August City: Main Venue: Dates:

The Estuary of Bilbao

Historic backbone

Without a doubt, the Estuary takes centre stage in the history of Bilbao. The first settlements on which Bilbao was officially founded in 1300 were built on its banks. In both the present and the past, this river artery has been key to the economic and urban transformation of the city. The best way to find out more about its maritime tradition and evolution is at the Itsasmuseum.

In addition to being a hallmark of the city, the Estuary provides a central location for leisure and recreation, with the bridges playing a dual role: connecting and embellishing the route. It is a pleasure to wander along the promenades jogging, cycling, on foot… contemplating buildings designed by emblematic architects. In the water, it is exciting to practice sports such as kayaking, rowing... or go for a sail in the tour boat which travels as far as el Abra, the mouth of the estuary.

info bilbaoturismo.net

Marijaia at the launch of the Txupin

Itsasmuseum, Karola crane and San Mamés

City: Main Venue:

Dates:

BILBAO BAsQuE FEst 2024

Bilbao Basque FEST invites you to celebrate the enormous cultural wealth of the Basque Country at the height of Easter. A crucible of tradition and the avant-garde, this festival programmes more than 200 experiences, most of which are free: concerts, dancing, exhibitions of traditional sports, street performances, romerías (a sort of festive pilgrimage)… and the best cuisine. Take a look through the great window of the universe, made in Euskadi, and find out about the activities on offer under the areas of Gourmet, Culture, Music, Market, Cinema and Sport. A city event for all ages and tastes that you should not miss.

Bilbao

All the city

March

info basquefest.bilbao.eus

Balmaseda Living Passion

Vía Crucis to heighten your senses

If the processions of the different brotherhoods are the central theme of Easter Week in Bilbao, Balmaseda is recognised for its realistic and moving Vía Crucis Viviente, with performances of the Last Supper or Pilate’s Trial.

Balmaseda, the first City of Bizkaia and founded in 1199, holds one of the most cherished traditions with its living interpretation of the Easter Passion. Year after year, its historic quarter fills with more than 50,000 people who come to watch the representation of the last days in the life of Jesus of Nazaret, a performance in which almost 700 of the townsfolk take part under the direction of the Asociación Vía Crucis Viviente de Balmaseda.

City:

Main Venue:

Dates:

Bilbao

All the city

December

GABONAK Experience the magic of

City: Main Venue:

Dates:

Bilbao

Artxanda Viewpoint

December and January

Naturaleza Encendida Christmas in Bilbao

Light and immersion

No Christmas experience in Bilbao is complete until you have immersed yourself in Naturaleza encendida, an immersive show that has become one of the most attractive and unique leisure options in the city at this time of year. This open-air artistic light show is synonymous with entertainment for all the family. With a high level of educational content, the show highlights sustainable values and exalts the natural elements from the space in which it is set. “Naturaleza encendida” can be found at Artxanda Viewpoint, a unique location for enjoying unbeatable views of the city. It is easily reached by public transport, on the Artxanda Cable Car and by Bilbobus.

Excitement takes over the capital of Bizkaia during the two moments most eagerly awaited by children: the kalejira (street parade) on 23 December with Olentzero and Mari Domingi, Christmas characters from Basque mythology charged with delivering their gifts, and the Parade of the Three Wise Men on 5 January.

Every Christmas, Bilbao takes on a different light and atmosphere in line with these special dates. As you stroll along its streets, you may feel this magical transformation, watching the multicoloured lights and the Christmas markets filled with local produce immersed in a lively atmosphere which enthrals visitors and tourists. At this time of year, the city becomes a huge scene of leisure activities, with music, circus, magic and comedy shows and exhibitions, and with the installation of a slide and eco-friendly ice skating rink measuring 800 m2

bilbaoturismo.net

Olentzero and Mari Domingi

Photo of Naturaleza encendida. Itsasaldi 2023

Bilbao Plaza Nueva and El Arenal

21 December City: Main Venue: Dates:

santo tomás Fair

Basque tradition and cuisine

Delicious cheeses, succulent talos (corn cakes) with chorizo washed down with cider, honey, traditional sweets… one of the biggest culinary fairs of the year, marking the start of Christmas in Bilbao: Santo Tomás This popular fair allows you to immerse yourself in Basque tradition at the hands of the baserritarras (farmers) who offer their best produce for sale at stalls scattered around Plaza Nueva and el Arenal.

bilbaoturismo.net

28 October City: Dates:

Gernika-Lumo

Gernika-Lumo Last Monday in October

The quality of the farm

This is one of the most important agricultural fairs in Euskadi. This traditional Basque market spreads throughout the centre of the town and every year brings together thousands of people, attracted not only by the quality of the produce on sale, but also by the great festive atmosphere. Producers spread their wares along the streets in the centre of Gernika, and one of the attractions of this zeroKm fair are the competitions and exhibitions of cheese, txakoli from Bizkaia, honey, flowers, fruit and vegetables.

gernika-lumo.net

Durangoko AZOKA

DA! Varied and participatory culture

This is one of the biggest Basque cultural events of the year. The Durango Basque Book and Music Fair, which attracts thousands of people year after year, is the reflection of the work of publishers and record companies, who display their offerings in a festive atmosphere.

The event, organised by Gerediaga Elkartea, is divided into different areas: Ahotsenea e Irudienea (audiovisual), Kabia (presentations, talks and workshops about technology), Saguganbara (area for children and young people), Szenatokia (dance and theatre) and Talaia (presentations).

The Fronton Gernika Jai Alai hosts the Eusko Label Winter Series for 12 weeks, the most important cesta-punta event, one of the most spectacular traditional Basque sports. The best players of the time meet at the fourth edition of this tournament, which opens with a great festive atmosphere to coincide with the huge fair held on the last Monday of October.

City:

Dates:

Gernika October-February

info durangokoazoka.eus

City: Main Venue:

Dates:

Durango Landako Gunea from 5 to 8 December

The Women Winter Series is holding its second edition in 2024 following the successful first championship ever held last year. The great female promises of cestapunta promise a great show at Ezkurdi fronton, in Durango.

City:

Dates:

Durango February-March

Dates:

KAntAurI FEst DE ZIErBEnA

The port of Zierbena hosts this popular culinary festival which includes guided tasting sessions, children’s workshops, a marmitako contest and several water-based activities. The public can also enjoy demonstrations and exhibitions of the trades of the sea, as well as the recreation of a fish auction.

On 5 September, the charming coastal village of Lekeitio in Bizkaia celebrates its great day, popularly known as Antzar eguna or Day of the geese, as part of the San Antolín festivities. Thousands of people wearing denim and with arrantzale scarves around their necks come together at the port and in the streets of the village to enjoy a tradition that dates back more than 300 years.

Main Venue:

Dates:

Lekeitio

5 September City:

Lekeitio Port

October City:

Zierbana

OtXOMAIOs In OrDuÑA

Orduña, the only place in Bizkaia classed as a city, recalls the appearance of its patron saint, the Virgen de la Antigua, on 8 May. On this day, the local authorities visit the Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de la Antigua and pay tribute to the patron saint. The Otxomaios festivities start a few days before and continue until the middle of the month. The programme includes a great variety of activities and events, including livestock fairs, parades and children’s activities.

info ordunaturismo.com

info kantaurifest.eus

8 May City: Main Venue:

Dates:

Orduña

streets of Orduña

info lekeitioturismo.eus

Blue and green plans around Bizkaia natural spaces

The natural diversity and wealth of Bizkaia is a tourist attraction offering options of great beauty. The sea, mountains and rivers come together magically in Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, where you can enjoy its landscapes to the full and practise sports such as surfing or kayaking. Gorbeia natural park, the biggest in Euskadi, is a paradise offering hiking trails for all levels; from climbing Mount Gorbea, at a height of 1481 metres, to other more simple routes. In Urkiola, mythology blends with a spectacular combination of mountains, rocks and valleys; this is the home of Urkiola Sanctuary, one of the most significant temples in Euskadi. Visit Pozalagua Cave, in Armañón, an underground cathedral filled with stalactites, stalagmites and the unusual eccentric stalactites. Another trip you are bound to love is the Salto del Nervión Waterfall, where you can witness the biggest waterfall in mainland Spain, with a drop of 270 metres.

Urkiola

BE BASQUE

Seafaring Festivities

ArrAntZALE EGunA BErMEO T

he Day of the Fisherman pays tribute to the men and women of Bermeo who worked in professions linked to the sea, some of which have now disappeared. The local celebrations of Bermeo offer a lively programme filled with traditional music, street parades, sporting events and the traditional talos contest.

City: Main Venue:

Dates:

Bermeo streets of Bermeo September

ZAPAtO AZuLE

In OnDArrOA

Zapato Azule (Blue Saturday) owes its name to the traditional denim shirts. It is held on the last weekend in June in the old quarter of the fishing village of Ondarroa. The celebrations last all day and have two essential highlights: the Dinamartxa, a mountain bike race between Tolosa and Ondarroa, which ends in a swim, and the T-shirt fair.

info ondarroa.eus

City:

Main Venue:

Dates:

Ondarroa

streets of Ondarroa

last Saturday in June

FEAst OF LA MAGDALEnA

This traditional seafaring festival celebrates an ancient dispute as to the ownership of the Isle of Izaro, located at the mouth of the Mundaka Estuary. The coastal towns of Bermeo, Elantxobe and Mundaka recreate this historic dispute to give way to a huge festival where everyone wears blue denim and checked scarves. The town of Plentzia also celebrates La Magdalena.

info bizibermeo.eus

info mundakaturismo.com

City:

Dates:

Bermeo, Elantxobe, Mundaka.

22 July

ARTS

Art and attraction

The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, emblem of the capital of Bizkaia, is fascinating thanks to its innovative architectural shapes and its magnificent collections of contemporary art. The art gallery, which last year saw the best summer ever with over 490,000 visitors, offers a rich and varied programme in a variety of formats (paintings, sculptures, photography and videos) in 2024. A proposal which attractively combines its notable permanent collection, which includes the work of Richard Serra, Mark Rothko, Eduardo Chillida, Jenny Holzer, Cristina Iglesias, Jorge Oteiza, and Joseph Beuys.

•Giovanni Anselmo: Beyond the Horizon (9 February - 19 May)

•Pop Art (15 February - 15 September)

•June Crespo. Vascular (1 March - 9 June)

•Martha Jungwirth (7 June - 22 September)

•Yoshitomo Nara (28 June - 3 November)

•Hilma af Klint (18 October - 2 February, 2025)

•Film & Video. Metahaven: Chaos Theory (22 February - 9 June)

•Film & Video. Anthony MacCall (20 June - 10 November)

COntEMPOrAry ARCHITECTURE

Icons of a transformation

Bilbao’s urban landscape contains an amalgam of excellent examples of contemporary architecture which have contributed to establishing the city as a highly attractive and beautiful city. The signal to start adopting these landmarks came in 1995 with Metro Bilbao by Norman Foster, with its shell-shaped entrances, christened fosteritos, and which gave a new look to the city.

1997 saw the arrival of the Guggenheim Museum by Frank O. Gehry, the principal icon of this new architecture. Magnificent constructions are found all along the Bilbao estuary, such as the Isozaki Atea complex, by the Japanese architect Arata Isozaki; the elegant and functional auditorium of the University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), designed by Álvaro Siza; the Library at Deusto University, designed by the architect from Navarre Rafael Moneo; the Iberdrola Tower by César Pelli; and the Conference Centre and Concert Hall by Federico Soriano and Dolores Palacios. In the city centre, the new urban look is represented by the Azkuna Zentroa cultural centre, formerly the Alhóndiga, and redesigned by Philippe Starck.

Isozaki Atea and Zubizuri

ARTS

BILBOKO ARTE

EDERREN MUSEOA

BILBAO FINE ARTS

MUSEUM

info bilbaomuseoa.eus/

The Bilbao Fine Arts Museum confronts 2024 immersed in an extension project, designed by architects Norman Foster and Luis María Uriarte. The Bilbao art gallery sees the future in terms of growth and has designed a programme that can be enjoyed in the old building The exhibition of 110 historic photos from the Ordoñez-Falcón collection, A New World to See, the guest work Mousquetaire à la pipe by Picasso, the collection of video art and digital creation Multiverso and the installation Thirteen to Centaurus by the artist from San Sebastian, Sergio Prego, are some of the highlights for this year.

These temporary exhibits combine perfectly with the museum’s own large collection, of more than 19,000 pieces, ranging from Romanesque art to present-day, including work by Martín de Vos, El Greco, José de Ribera, Zurbaran, Murillo, Goya, Gauguin, Francis Bacon, Tàpies, Barceló, and a long list of Basque artists such as Adolfo Guiard, Darío de Regoyos, Eduardo Chillida and Jorge Oteiza.

Looking at the to grow future

DISCOVER THE RICH MEDIEVAL HERITAGE FROM BIZKAIA

History, tradition and art magically come together in several towns in Bizkaia close to Bilbao, keepers of a monumental heritage of great beauty. Villages such as Balmaseda and Lanestosa (Enkarterri), Durango and Elorrio (Durangaldea), Otxandio and Areatza (Gorbeialdea) and Gernika-Lumo (Urdaibai), are home to churches, shrines, convents, stately homes, manor houses and luxurious palaces which will allow to connect with the medieval past of the region. A visit to these beautiful towns with narrow cobbled streets is well worth a visit. Many of them are situated in natural environments of extraordinary charm, and can be reached by road (bus or car) or rail.

ARTS

City:

Main Venue:

Dates:

Bilbao

Azkuna Zentroa

From 28 March to 1 April

Gutun ZurIA

Literary conversations

The Bilbao International Literature Festival, Gutun Zuria, is a celebration of literature that every year brings together local and international writers who talk about and discuss their concerns using the word as the starting point. The subjects addressed at this literary event include disciplines such as sociology, music, visual arts, philosophy, journalism or anthropology. Gutun Zuria, which celebrates its 16th edition this year, is held at the Azkuna Zentroa in Bilbao and its programme includes conferences, debates, workshops, artistic productions, activities for schoolchildren and publishing launches.

FIG E

ngraving, one of the oldest artistic techniques while also being largely unknown to the majority of people, is the central theme at the International Festival of Engraving and Art on Paper, one of the most important showcases at European level for this discipline. The event, which selects a guest country every year, hosts around 40 national and international galleries in its 5000 m2 of exhibition space. It offers an exclusive programme for collectors, themed lectures, workshops and masterclasses.

figbilbao.com

GAu ZurIA

Nights in Bilbao fill with magic for the city’s anniversary at the Gau zuria or White Night. Watching the transformation of churches, squares, parks, museums, emblematic buildings, bridges and sculptures through surprising art, light and sound installations becomes a true pleasure for the senses. A show that takes place over two afternoons and two nights to celebrate one of the most highlighted dates in the Bilbao calendar.

Main Venue:

Dates:

Bilbao

November City:

Euskalduna Conference Centre

bilbaoturismo.net

Dates:

June City:

Bilbao

info gutunzuria.azkunazentroa.eus

GEtXO PhOtO

City:

Getxo

Main Venue:

Algorta

Dates:

From 6 to 30 June

Getxo, a coastal town just 25 minutes away from Bilbao on the metro, organises the Getxophoto International Image Festival every year, to showcase photographic work about different subject areas committed to using public spaces as the meeting point. The photos can be enjoyed in the open air, displayed on walls, shop windows, buildings, and in less conventional display formats and locations.

getxophoto.com

ARTS

City:

Main Venue:

Bilbao

Sala BBK

September-October

Dates: info jafestival.com

JA! FEstIVAL BILBAO

The International Festival of Literature and Art with Humour, Ja! revolves, as is only logical, around humour in the arts, especially in literature, offering spaces for entertainment and reflection. Screenings, interviews, exhibitions, talks and performances, always from a witty and ingenious perspective, give form to this festival, which is free of charge, and where artists such as John Cleese, Tom Sharpe, Elvira Lindo, Javier Cansado, Forges, Juan Carlos Ortega, Olga Tokarczuk or John Banville have performed. This year Ja! celebrates its 15th edition.

BIG T

Bilbao International Games Conference

he biggest names in the international video game industry come together at BIG, an event where professionals and the general public meet in an environment of passion and entertainment for gaming. Indie zone, conferences, competitions, awards, networking… BIG is already a hallmark event for the industry leaving nothing to be desired.

bilbaogamesconference.com

OPEn hOusE BILBAO

At the Open House Bilbao festival, free guided tours offer the opportunity to discover more than 60 emblematic spaces in the city, usually closed to the public, and which are known for their architectural and/ or urban value. This international initiative also includes complementary activities such family workshops, urban strolls or signature tours.

openhousebilbao.org

Main Venue:

Dates:

December City:

City:

Main Venue:

Dates:

Barakaldo

Bilbao Exhibition

Centre (BEC!)

MusEKIntZA

MusEkintza offers a rich and varied programme of artistic disciplines: theatre, performances, music, film, poetry, dance, fashion, sculpture, visual shows… Everything goes at this event which has a great added value, as the different shows are held in museums and historic locations of Bizkaia.

Bilbao

Various venues

October

bizkaikoa.bizkaia.eus

City:

Different towns in Bizkaia

Dates:

From September

To November

John Banville

Olga Tokarczuk, Nobel Prize in Literature

CINEMA

City:

Main Venue: Dates:

Bilbao

Various locations from 8 to 15 November

Documentaries and short films

The most innovative and creative audiovisual productions in documentary or short film format will find their place at Zinebi, the International Documentary and Short Film Festival in Bilbao, this year in its 66th edition. Characterised by its commitment to emerging artists, once again the jury at Zinebi will include flamboyant film-makers such as Estibaliz Urresola, director of the full-length feature film 20,000 species of bees and the animation director and illustrator, Alberto Vázquez.

info zinebi.eus

City:

Bilbao

Main Venue:

Dates:

Various locations from 17 to 28 October

ZInEMAKuMEAK GArA!

Film women

inemakumeak gara! aims to promote and raise awareness of the work of female film directors. For one week, this event, which has been held since 1996, brings together screenings, conferences, workshops and meetings with a broad range of perspectives. The event comes to an end with the awarding of the Simone de Beauvoir Prize, in recognition of the brilliant female careers in the film industry.

zinemakumeak.com

CINEMA 30 FAnt BILBAO

Fantasy film

National and international premières of fantasy and horror films come together in the programme of the 30th edition of the Fantasy Film Festival FANT, organised by Bilbao City Council. The event, a reference in the genre, offers a rich selection of talks, special screenings, parallel activities and recognitions, such as the Honorary FANT Award and the FANT Star Award which last year went to the actress Belén Rueda.

City: Main Venue:

Dates:

Bilbao

Various locations from 3 to 11 May

Bilbao

December City: Main Venue:

Dates:

Various locations

thInKInG FOOtBALL

FILM FEstIVAL

Human stories around a ball

The Athletic Club of Bilbao, through the Athletic Club Foundation, is organising the Thinking Football Film Festival, an annual event with the special feature that it shows works that have a great social and human background and are linked to football. Films and documentaries for all ages at an event that, after 11 editions, has become established as one of the most important festivals in Europe dedicated to this sport.

BBK MEnDI FILM

BILBAO BIZKAIA

Nature on film

Nature and film come together magically at the BBK Mendi Film Bilbao Bizkaia, the perfect event event for enjoying films about mountains, adventure and extreme sports. The inspirational programme includes a number of national and international premières, complemented by talks, exhibitions and special awards.

mendifilmfestival.com

thinkingfootballfilmfestival.com

Bilbao

October City: Main Venue:

Dates:

Sala BBK

CINEMA

Main Venue:

Dates:

June City:

Bilbao

Various locations

ZInEGOAK

LGTBIQ+ Perspectives

zinegoak.com info

Aspects including visibility, acceptance, meeting and reflections based on sexual diversity, identity and/ or gender through art, film and culture define the philosophy of the Bilbao International LGBTIQ+ Film and Performing Arts Festival. Zinegoak, this year in its 21st edition, and established as an international festival of reference in this area, brings together an attractive programme of perspectives and narrative formats.

kcd-ongd.org

SAN JUAN DE GAZTELUGATxE

A natural wonder

The Bizkaia coastline keeps its most dazzling treasure in San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, between the towns of Bakio and Bermeo, 35 kilometres from Bilbao. This natural spot has a winding stone path with 241 steps across the sea to connect the highest point with San Juan chapel.

Take a walk and enjoy the spectacular views of the Cantabrian Sea. When you reach the highest point, you will be amazed by the magnificence of a landscape that looks as if it came out of an adventure book. Make a space in you diary to visit this magical and iconic place.

web.bizkaia.eus/es/gaztelugatxe

seriesland.eus

InVIsIBLE FILM FEstIVAL Film Sozialak

ilms are a tool that serve to help cure and convert to encourage an ethical and responsible society. The International Invisible Film Festival Film Sozialak 2024, organised by the NGO Kultura, Communication y Desarrollo (KCD), is based on this philosophy. Through a careful selection of audiovisual work, it aims to promote sustainability, gender equality, interculturality, solidarity and human rights, inviting audiences to reflection and debate.

City:

Main Venue:

Dates:

Bilbao

Various locations from 10 to 17 October

BILBAO Seriesland

F B

ilbao Seriesland is far more than a festival of web series or digital series; it is also an international meeting point of great importance for screenwriters, producers, directors and content distributors. With its very own DNA, Bilbao Seriesland reveals original digital content created by local and international talent.

Bilbao

Main Venue:

Dates:

November City:

Bilborock and other venues

ON STAGE

City:

Main Venue:

Dates:

Bilbao

Various locations

from 1 to 6 July

KALEALDIA BAD Bilboko

Entertainment within reach

Festival of Contemporary Theatre and Dance

The dates of the BAD Festival of Contemporary Theatre and Dance, organised by the City Council of Bilbao, are highlighted in the calendars of many lovers of culture in Bilbao Bizkaia. Dance, performances, new plays, the avantgarde and theatre come together to offer a local and international programme of great interest. Year after year, BAD enjoys a warm welcome from audiences and moreover, is a valuable tool for supporting local creative talent.

City:

Bilbao

Main Venue:

Dates:

Various locations from 12 to 17 October

The Festival of Street Art and Theatre, organised annually by Bilbao City Council, offers free street performances of dancing, tightrope walking, circus and acrobatics given by local and international companies. Shows for all the family in different parts of the city at an event supported by the presence of food trucks, and offering an exceptional atmosphere for children’s entertainment.

THEATRE IN BILBAO BIZKAIA

A varied programme throughout the year

Your stay in Bilbao Bizkaia will be even more enjoyable if you include a visit to the theatre in your schedule. Arriaga Theatre, Euskalduna Jauregia Bilbao Conference Centre, Campos Elíseos Theatre, Serantes Kultur Aretoa (Santurtzi) and Social Antzokia (Basauri) are just some of the venues offering top quality performances all year round. If you are a fan of the performing arts, there is a great programme available to you, with special additional activities during Aste Nagusia. Enjoy it!

Arriaga Theatre

49th

ON STAGE Portugalete International Folklore Festival

Folk, cultural and dance groups from all over the world come to Portugalete with their traditional shows filled with rhythm and joy. The event takes a closer look at the demonstrations of folk traditions and raises awareness about other people’s cultures while also displaying examples of Basque folklore. The Portugalete International Folklore Festival, organised by the group Elai Alai, is a huge inspiration which goes beyond the cultural and celebrates living together.

MAGIArEn tOPAKEtA

Magic in the Open Air

Magiaren Topaketa offers illusion and magic shows in the open air and free of charge to entertain audiences of all ages. The event, organised by the City Council of Bilbao, includes fascinating national and international performances filled with surprise and imagination, including talks and art exhibitions about magic.

info bilbaokultura.eus

IntErnAtIOnAL CLOWn

FEstIVAL

The streets and squares of the village of Arrigorriaga become stages for good humour and laughter during the International Clown festival, this year in its 29th edition with an attractive and special local, national and international programme. The festival has a multidisciplinary nature intended to reach all audiences, and therefore also offers musical shows, slacklining workshops, balancing games, decoration and exhibitions to promote this.

info elai-alai.eu

City: Main Venue:

Dates:

Portugalete

Paseo de la Canilla

July

July City: Main Venue:

Dates:

Bilbao

Txurdinaga and Otxarkoaga

uMOrE AZOKA

For four days, Street Art plays a central role in Leioa during the Umore Azoka, the Street Performers Fair, the perfect setting to enjoy a wide range of theatrical languages. With an enthusiastic and supportive audience, this event includes work by an outstanding selection of Basque, national and international companies. More than 30,000 people attended the 90 performances scheduled for last year.

info umoreazoka.org

info arrigorriaga.eus

City: Main Venue:

Dates:

Arrigorriaga

Various venues

May

City:

Leioa

Main Venue:

Various venues

Dates:

from 16 to 19 May

CALENDAR EVENTS 2024

JANUARY

• Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

- Works from the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao Collection

• Fine Arts Museum

- Begoña María Azkue Bequest (until December 2024)

- A New World to See. Ordóñez Falcón Collection (until February 2024)

- Picasso. Mousquetaire à la pipe (until March 2024)

- Sergio Prego. Thirteen to Centaurus. BBKateak (until November 2024)

• ABAO-OLBE. Abduction from the Seraglio

FEBRUARY

• Punta Galea Challenge

• Gutun Zuria

• Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

- Giovanni Anselmo: Beyond the Horizon (February to March)

- Film & Video. Metahaven: Chaos Theory (February to March)

- Pop Art (February to September )

• Women Winter Series (February and March)

• ABAO-OLBE. Rigoletto

MARCH

• Musika-Música

• BAS Bilbao Arte Sacro

• Occident Bilbao-Bilbao

• BILBO Basque Fest

• Balmaseda Living Passion

• Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

- June Crespo. Vascular (March to June)

APRIL

• Itzulia Basque Country

• Laboral Kutxa Bilbao Mendi Trail

MAY

• Final of the UEFA Women’s Champions League

• Orbea Klasika Bilbao Bizkaia

• Itzulia Women

• Otxomaios in Orduña

• Magiaren Topaketa in Bilbao

• Arrigorriaga International Clown Festival

• Umore Azoka Leioa

• Fant in Bilbao

• ABAO-OLBE. La Bohéme

• Areatza Musik&Beer

JUNE

• BBK Music Legends Fest

• Zapato Azule (Blue Saturday) in Ondarroa

• GetxoPhoto

• Gau Zuria in Bilbao

• Zinegoak in Bilbao

• Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

- Martha Jungwirth (June to September)

- Yoshitomo Nara (June to November)

- Film & Video. Anthony MacCall (June to November)

JULY

• Bilbao BBK Live

• Bilbao Blues Festival

• Getxo Jazz

• Getxo Circuit

• Feast of la Magdalena in Bermeo, Elantxobe and Mundaka

• Bilboko kalealdia

• Portugalete International Folklore Festival

• Kaleka Lea Artibai

AUGUST

• Pozalagua Festival

• Aste Nagusia in Bilbao

SEPTEMBER

• Getxo Folk BBK

• Bilbao Triathlon

• The Day of the Geese in Lekeitio

• Arrantzale Eguna in Bermeo

• Kantauri Fest in Zierbena

OCTOBER

• BIME

• TotalEnergies Bilbao Night Marathon

• Last Monday in October, Gernika-Lumo

• JA! Festival Bilbao

• Open House Bilbao

• BAD in Bilbao

• Musika Bizian in Galdakao

• Zinemakumeak gara! in Bilbao

• Thinking Football Film Festival in Bilbao

• Invisible Film Festival in Bilbao

• Bilbao Seriesland

• Eusko Label Winter Series (October to February)

• Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

- Hilma af Klint (October to February)

NOVEMBER

• MAZ Basauri

• FIG Bilbao

• Zinebi

DECEMBER

• Gabonak

• Durangoko Azoka

• Santo Tomás Fair

• Bilbao Mendi Film Festival

THIS SEASON’S PROGRAMME:

• Bilbao Symphony Orchestra - BOS

• Arriaga Theatre

• Euskalduna Jauregia Conference Centre Bilbao

• MusEkintza

BILBAO TURISMO

Plaza Circular, 1 Edificio Terminus

944 795 760

bilbaoturismo.net

visitbiscay.eus