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Jaialdi means “Festival” in the Basque Language (Euskara). This festival exhibits the Basque culture with dancing (dantzan) and musical (musika) performances, sporting (kirol) events, and authentic food (jateko) and drink (edateko). The Basque people are known for their merriment, and Jaialdi showcases these characteristics well.

Jaialdi was first celebrated in 1987 at the Old Idaho State Penitentiary as a one time weekend event to educate the public about the Basque culture. Jaialdi ‘87 attracted approximately 30,000 visitors who thoroughly enjoyed the event, the location, and the opportunity to be part of the Basque activities. The festival was so popular that Governor Cecil Andrus asked the local Basque community to put on another celebration to help celebrate Idaho’s Centennial in 1990.

After Jaialdi ’90, it was decided that the Jaialdi would continue to be held in Boise every five years. Jaialdi has been held in Boise in: 1987, 1990, 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015. Jaialdi has become so popular that the event had to be moved from the Old Idaho State Penitentiary to the Western Idaho Fairgrounds to accommodate over 40,000 guests. This event is always held on the last weekend of July, which coincides with the Boise’s Basque community annual San Inazio festival which celebrates their patron saint, San Ignacio of Loyola.

***UPDATE***

As you know, we were hoping to celebrate Jaialdi with you this summer. But increasing infection rates and slow vaccine rollouts, both here and around the diaspora, mean that we must postpone Jaialdi again. Mark your calendars, though! Jaialdi 2025 will take place July 29 – August 3, 2025.
We made this move to ensure the health of our local supporters and allow the safe travel of our friends and relatives from the Basque Country and beyond.
Tickets for Jaialdi 2025 will go on sale in early 2025. Most Jaialdi 2021 tickets have been refunded, so there’s no need to do anything but wait for the 2025 on-sale date, which we will publicize. (If you have Expo Idaho tickets, keep them — they will be valid for entry in 2025.) If you moved your hotel dates, please contact your hotel directly to make new arrangements.
Vendors and program book advertisers, please check your inbox next week for information on how to reschedule. We’re happy to answer any questions you might have.
We know that when we meet again we will have so much more to celebrate than during a typical Jaialdi year. We are so grateful for your ongoing support and can’t wait to welcome you to Boise in 2025. Until then, stay safe!

For more information, check out Jaialdi’s website by clicking the button below.

“Adiskide onekin, orduak labur”
With a good friend, the hours are short