Bixintxo - Fêtes d'Hendaye

The patronal festival of Hendaye

Bixintxo is the unmissable event of Hendaye life. Celebrated every year in January, this patronal festival honors Saint Vincent, the patron saint of the city, through ten days of entertainment combining Basque traditions, shows, gastronomy, and conviviality. Bixintxo brings together Hendaye residents and visitors in a festive and warm atmosphere that marks the beginning of the year in the Basque Country.

The return of Étienne Pellot, corsair of Hendaye

The opening of the festival is marked by a spectacular moment: the return of the famous corsair of Hendaye Étienne Pellot. According to tradition, this historical figure, having escaped his English jailers, arrives from Portugal disguised as a pilgrim after passing through Santiago de Compostela. His landing at the port of Caneta, accompanied by schoolchildren, launches the festivities to the cheers of the crowd gathered in the Place de la République.

The Tamborrada, the beating heart of Bixintxo

The tamborrada is the highlight of the festival. This parade of companies to the sound of drums goes through the streets of Hendaye in a joyful and infectious din. The general rehearsal with the presentation of the pennants, and then the grand parade on the last weekend, are moments of popular communion where the entire city vibrates to the rhythm of the percussion. The txistularis (Basque flute players) also accompany the processions in the city streets.

Basque pelota, gastronomy, and entertainment

Bixintxo offers a rich and varied program throughout the ten days. Basque pelota games, including the prestigious 2-on-2 bare-hand match as part of the Spanish championship, attract enthusiasts to the fronton. The potato omelet contest, popular meals (suckling pig, zikiro), and pintxo pote in the city center will delight foodies. The funfair sets up at the Gaztelu Zahar fronton for the delight of families.

Mutxiko, concerts, and shows

Sunday mornings are enlivened by mutxiko, these traditional Basque dances open to all. Concerts, children's shows, and musical evenings punctuate the two weekends of the festival. The Hendaye choir offers a concert in the majestic setting of the Saint-Vincent church, adding a cultural and spiritual dimension to the celebrations.