Aste Nagusia (Semana Grande) 2026Sat, Aug 22, 2026Wanderistan
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Aste Nagusia (Semana Grande) 2026

BilbaoSat, Aug 22, 2026

Festivals

Overview

Overview

Bilbao's nine-day Great Week of free concerts, Basque dances and a nightly fireworks competition over the river.

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Aste Nagusia, also known as Semana Grande, is the main festival of Bilbao, Basque Country, Spain. It is celebrated annually over 9 days beginning on the first Saturday following 15 August. The festival has been held since 1978 and features a unique organisational model between citizen groups (comparsas) and the Bilbao City Council. Highlights include the chupinazo (signal rocket launch) from the balcony of the Teatro Arriaga, festive tents (txosnas), music, dance, bullfights, and fireworks. In 2009, it was voted one of the 10+2 Intangible Cultural Heritage Treasures of Spain. The 2026 edition runs from Saturday, 22 August to Sunday, 30 August.

⏱️ 192 hrsFestival

Good to know

  • The festival takes place in Bilbao, Basque Country, Spain. The main hub is the El Arenal fairground where txosnas (festive tents) are installed.
  • The festival runs for 9 days, from Saturday 22 August to Sunday 30 August 2026. Plan accommodation well in advance as Bilbao gets crowded.
  • Public transport (metro, tram, bus) is recommended to reach the city center. Bilbao's metro system connects all major areas.

Frequently asked questions

When is Aste Nagusia 2026?

It runs from Saturday, 22 August to Sunday, 30 August 2026.

What is the chupinazo?

It is the launch of a signal rocket from the Teatro Arriaga balcony that marks the official start of the festival.

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2026 guides

Planning around events? These guides collect 2026 calendars, festival clusters, and practical trip ideas so you can compare dates before you book.

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