Boise's Basque Festival Makes Grand Return After Decade-Long Hiatus

A Celebration of Basque Culture Returns to Boise

For the first time in over a decade, thousands of people from around the world will gather in Boise’s Basque Block to celebrate Jaialdi. This six-day festival, dedicated to honoring Basque culture through food, music, dance, sport, and community, will run from Tuesday, July 29 to Sunday, August 3. The event has become a significant cultural milestone for the Basque community and offers a unique opportunity to experience the traditions and heritage of this vibrant group.

Jaialdi, which means “festival” in the Basque language, is one of the largest celebrations of Basque culture globally and the biggest of its kind in the United States. Traditionally held every five years during the last weekend of July, it coincides with the celebration of San Ignatius of Loyola, the patron saint of the Basque people. This timing adds historical and spiritual significance to the event, drawing participants from across the globe.

Organizers describe Jaialdi as a cultural homecoming for Basques worldwide. It brings together individuals from the Basque Country and the diaspora, offering a chance to reconnect with family and friends while sharing their rich heritage with a broader audience. While Basque festivals take place in various locations around the world, Jaialdi is exclusive to Boise, making it a unique and highly anticipated event.

The last Jaialdi was scheduled for 2020 but was canceled due to the pandemic. As a result, this year’s celebration marks the first in 10 years. Organizers are excited about the return and anticipate a larger turnout than ever before, expecting between 30,000 and 40,000 attendees. They are preparing for an even more energetic and expansive celebration, reflecting the changes that have occurred in the past decade.

Marketing Director Lael Uberuaga-Rodgers shared her enthusiasm for the event, stating, “A lot has changed in the world in the last 10 years, and we’re expecting this festival to be our biggest yet.” According to Uberuaga-Rodgers, approximately 30 to 40% of attendees are local, while several hundred to a few thousand travel from abroad. The remaining participants come from various parts of the United States, highlighting the widespread appeal of the festival.

Many events during Jaialdi are free and open to the public, including street performances and activities in Boise’s Basque Block. However, tickets are required for select events such as Sports Night, Festara, Dantzaldi, and the Expo Idaho showcase. These can be purchased through the official website, jaialdi.com.

This year’s festival introduces new and improved elements to commemorate the first event in 10 years. One of the highlights is Dantzaldi, or “dance time,” which will be introduced as a large indoor concert and dance hall at the Idaho Central Arena on Saturday, August 2. While the festival has always featured street dancing, this new high-capacity venue allows more people to enjoy a mix of Basque folk, rock, and fusion music from both international and local performers. This addition promises to enhance the overall experience and attract a wider audience.