Ever since 1978, the summer in Bilbao has been characterized by the “Semana Grande” (The Big Week) festival, also commonly known “Astenagusia”, which takes place from the 20th to 28th August.

This is must for every Bilbaino and visitor, who are sure to enjoy themselves in a city that becomes one big lively festival, with a wide variety of options for all tastes and ages. The festival itself is spread out throughout different areas such as the Arenal, an exciting area where we find the “txoznas” or large tents for the different “comparsas” or participating festival groups; the Etxebarria Park, which houses the fair attractions and stalls; or the improvised terraces of the main city hotels, where you can enjoy a drink in a very pleasant atmosphere.

The musical programme is usually a very important part of the festival, with an emphasis this time on pop and mixed race music (Carlinhos Brown, Orishas, M-Clan, Luz Casal, etc). To this we must add the excellent theatre programme, which attracts some of the best theatrical groups; the bullfights of Vista Alegre, with the top names of the bull rings or the International Firework Competition, which this year holds its 15th Edition.

The festival reaches its finale when “Marijaia”, the character that symbolizes the “Astenagusia”, is submerged into the waters of the Estuary, evoking a sense of sadness by the people of Bilbao as they impatiently wait for next year’s edition.