Don’t miss a weekend of art, music, food, and activities at the National Basque Festival.

Held in the heart of Elko each year, the festival has been celebrating basque heritage for 5 decades. Join the basque communities of Nevada on June 29th through July 1st, 2018, for an unforgettable, cultural experience.

Do as the Basques do and head on over to the Elko County Fairgrounds for traditional Basque dancing and activites. You can also watch rural sports competitions like Sheepherder’s Bread-making contests. If you want to get involved, sign up for a 5K run through the heart of Elko.

A parade is held through the downtown area as well. Natives wear traditional Basque costumes and march through the streets waving flags and playing drums. The festival also offers a catholic mass if you want to enjoy a serene environment and practice your faith.

Basque cuisine can be found all around the festival from sunrise to sunset. Try mouth-watering paella and chorizo from larger than life pots set up around the fairgrounds. Make sure to taste traditional Basque libations as well. Locals rave about the famous Picon Punch, a highball cocktail made with an Amaro liqueur, soda water, grenadine, a splash of lemon, and a bit of brandy floating on top. If you are more of a wine person, show up to the festival in all white. The Bascos invite you to cut loose at the Basque dance and spill wine all over your outfit. A white-stained shirt is considered a badge of honor.

For more information on the festival, visit http://www.elkobasqueclub.com/2018-national-basque-festival.html