Fêtes de Saint-Palais

Festivities in the heart of Lower Navarre

Every July, Saint-Palais (Donapaleu in Basque), former capital of the Kingdom of Lower Navarre, celebrates its patron saint festivals over five days of intense festivities. This event is one of the highlights of the Basque summer, combining ancestral traditions, sporting competitions, and festive entertainment in a friendly and popular atmosphere.

The Festival of Basque Strength

The Festival of Basque Strength, created in 1951, is the highlight of the festivals. This unique show embodies the folklore and soul of a people deeply rooted in their land. Eight teams from Lower Navarre and Soule, totaling 120 competitors, compete in six spectacular events:

• Tug of war: A test of collective strength pitting two teams against each other
• Hay bale lifting: The hay bale must be lifted above a mast by the strength of the arms alone
• Cart lifting: Lifting a heavy cart with the arms
• Log sawing: A speed race using a saw to cut through a tree trunk
• Wheat sack race: A sprint carrying a sack of wheat on the shoulders
• Log splitting: Felling logs with an axe

The winning team wins the Sud Ouest newspaper shield.

Basque Pelota

Pelota games are at the heart of the festivals. The Saint-Palais municipal fronton, which uniquely features two opposite walls, hosts semi-finals of the French championship rebot and other Basque pelota specialties. Pelota is more than just a sport in the Basque Country; it's a living tradition.

Kantaldi and Concerts

The kantaldi (Basque singing concerts) bring together groups like Alarma Morea, Saltoka, and Gurashow Taldea in the Place du Foirail. Concerts and bandas liven up the evenings and nights of celebration.

Entertainment for All

The festivals also offer:

• Toro de fuego: Traditional nocturnal pyrotechnic show
• Tournaments: Pétanque and mus (Basque card game)
• Children's games: Laser game, bubble football, wooden games, and activities on the banks of the Bidouze river
• Festival Mass: Traditional celebration with Basque songs

Saint-Palais, a historic town

Saint-Palais is the former administrative capital of Lower Navarre. The town had the privilege of minting its own currency for nearly 400 years. Located at the crossroads of the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage routes, it retains a rich historical heritage and a strong Basque identity.