Aste Nagusia Txosnas

Dive into the vibrant heart of Aste Nagusia at the 'txosnas' (festival booths) set up by local groups.

These lively stalls are the epicenter of the celebration, offering live music, traditional Basque food like pintxos, and local drinks, all in an authentic, communal atmosphere that defines the festival for locals.

The txosnas are where locals gather to socialize and soak in the festive spirit. Expect a lively crowd, diverse culinary offerings, and spontaneous street entertainment. No official start/end time for general txosna activity, they are open late into the night during the festival. This is a must-experience for anyone wanting to feel the true pulse of Aste Nagusia.

SHINOVA Concert

Experience a free live concert by the popular band SHINOVA (SHINOVA en Bilbo) as part of the extensive Aste Nagusia music program.

This is a significant musical highlight within the festival, drawing a large local crowd.

Abandoibarra is a key concert venue during Aste Nagusia, hosting major acts. Be prepared for a large, energetic crowd. These free concerts are a quintessential part of the 'Big Week' experience.

Spanish Art Masterpieces

Start your Saturday with a cultural immersion at the Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao (Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao), featuring the exhibition 'From Greco to Zuloaga: Masterpieces of Spanish Art'.

This exhibition showcases 30 paintings and two sculptures, offering a deep dive into Spanish art history.

This is a fantastic opportunity to see a curated collection of significant Spanish artworks. It provides a more contemplative experience amidst the festive atmosphere of Aste Nagusia. Allow 2-3 hours for your visit.

Aste Nagusia Lunch & Stroll

Head back to the heart of Aste Nagusia in El Arenal and Casco Viejo for a lively lunch.

Explore the various food stalls and pop-up bars within the 'txosnas' zone, trying local delicacies like 'pintxos' (Basque tapas) and 'txakoli' (local white wine). The area will be buzzing with daytime activities and street performers.

This is a quintessential Aste Nagusia experience. Enjoy the festive ambiance, sample diverse Basque street food, and observe the vibrant street life and spontaneous performances that are characteristic of the festival.

Acrostics Presentation

Attend the 'Acrostics presentation' (Acrostics presentation, Teatro Arriaga), an institutional event within the Aste Nagusia program.

This offers a unique cultural insight into the festival's traditional and artistic elements, often featuring local performers and cultural groups.

The Arriaga Theatre is an iconic landmark in Bilbao, and events here during Aste Nagusia often provide a deeper understanding of Basque culture and the festival's heritage. Check the official Aste Nagusia program for precise details on content and any potential early booking for this specific event.

International Fireworks

Conclude your Saturday with the spectacular 33rd International 'Villa de Bilbao' Fireworks Competition (Pirotecnia Valecea from Álava). These daily pyrotechnic displays are a major highlight of Aste Nagusia, lighting up the sky over the Nervión River.

The fireworks are a captivating experience that draws massive crowds. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, especially on the Arenal Bridge. It's a grand spectacle that perfectly encapsulates the celebratory spirit of the Big Week.

Fireworks Prize Ceremony

Witness the prize ceremony for the 33rd International 'Villa de Bilbao' Fireworks Competition. This institutional event officially recognizes the winning pyrotechnic companies from the daily displays throughout Aste Nagusia.

A chance to see the culmination of one of the festival's most popular attractions and celebrate the artistic achievements of the fireworks display. It's a more formal, yet engaging, part of the festival's closing day.

Musical Vermouth

Enjoy a relaxed 'musical vermouth' (Musical vermouth, Teilape Gunea), offering a pleasant and social atmosphere with music and drinks.

This is a perfect way to experience the winding down of Aste Nagusia in a laid-back setting.

A popular local tradition, especially on Sundays, now integrated into the festival for a relaxed afternoon. It's an excellent opportunity to enjoy some final musical performances and soak in the festive ambiance before the Big Week concludes.

Guggenheim Contemporary Art

Conclude your weekend with a visit to the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum Bilbao.

Explore contemporary art exhibitions such as 'in situ: Refik Anadol', an immersive and multisensory experience using AI, or the thought-provoking 'Barbara Kruger' exhibition, the artist's first anthological show in Spain.

The Guggenheim is a must-visit for its groundbreaking architecture and constantly rotating, high-quality exhibitions. This offers a final, enriching cultural experience to cap off a festive weekend. The museum typically closes at 8:00 PM, allowing ample time for exploration.