Hondarribia - Irun

Olentzero

December

On the 24th of December, apart from celebrating Christmas Eve, the Basques receive the traditional Olentzero, a coal merchant, who comes down the mountain that day to leave toys and presents in the houses at night.

Different events are held around this figure in the Basque Country. In Irun, associations of neighbourhoods, cultural associations, choirs, schools, groups of friends, etc… get together that day to go out and sing in the city.

Likewise, the Olentzero Singing Festival is held in Plaza de San Juan Harria. And the Olentzero himself also appears in the city, welcoming children who want to leave their letters in Plaza de San Juan Harria.