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A group of Basque dancers performing in front of a crowd of people.
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Celebrate Jaialdi On the Basque Block

July 29-August 3, 2025

Mark your calendars—after a long hiatus, the highly anticipated Jaialdi is making its grand comeback! Traditionally held every five years, this beloved festival features a full slate of can’t-miss events and cultural offerings. From mouthwatering delicacies and lively dance performances to farm sport competitions like wood chopping and hay bale throwing, you’re in for a week packed with Basque happenings.

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Fun Facts for First-Timers

New to Jaialdi? Kick off your journey with these fun facts about the cherished celebration and the Basque people behind it.

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Jaialidi means “festival” in the Basque language, Euskara, one of the three oldest languages in Europe.

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Originally a one-time cultural festival at the Old Idaho Penitentiary, Jaialdi returned in 1990 at Governor Cecil Andrus’ request for Idaho’s centennial—and went on to be held every five years.

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Jaialidi typically draws 30,000+ people, making it not only the largest Basque festival in the U.S. but also one of the largest in the world.

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The Basque Country, known as Euskal Herria, is split between seven provinces that straddle present-day Spain and France.

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Boise’s Basque population, estimated at approximately 16,000, is one of the largest in the U.S.

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An illustration of a Basque Flag with a painted texture.

Basque Block Must-Dos

Your Jaialdi experience isn’t complete without soaking up the delights of the Basque Block in downtown Boise. Sample this list of must-dos and must-eats so you don’t miss a beat.

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A group of Basque dancers performing in a parade on a street lined with buildings and spectators.
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Jaialdi Is Only the Beginning…

You’ve come for Jaialdi, but there’s so much more to see! Round out your trip by exploring the rest of Boise and other destinations within driving distance.

Distance From Boise

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Jaialdi

Payette Brewing Company

Length: 1.2 miles, 1.93 km

City: Boise

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Lookout view at Three Island State Park.

Three Island Crossing State Park

Length: 64.9 miles, 104.45 km

City: Glenns Ferry

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Murals on building walls in Freaky Alley.

Freak Alley Gallery

Length: 0.6 miles, 0.97 km

City: Boise

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Jaialdi

Hells Canyon Winery

Length: 28 miles, 45.06 km

City: Caldwell

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Bitner Vineyards

Bitner Vineyards

Length: 30 miles, 48.28 km

City: Caldwell

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Jaialdi 101

Scroll through this travel tip to get the full scoop on Jaialdi—what it is, insider tips and why it deserves a spot on your summer calendar.

Take a Look
A Basque flag flying hanging on the outside wall of the Basque Center, and in the background, several trees and a tall building.

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The words Basque Block, Boise over an illustrated map showing the Basque Block surrounded by various streets in Boise.
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Find Your Basque Basecamp

Don’t sleep on finding a place to rest!

Browse Lodgings
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An outdoor view of The Basque Market brick building and a group of people sitting beneath umbrellas on the patio out front.

More Stories, More Celebrations

The adventure continues … Explore Basque experiences, along with cultural events and historic tales across Idaho.

Dive In
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