Year after year, the Orduñesas festival of the “Ochomayos” inaugurates the calendar of local festivals in Bizkaia. It has its origin in the 17th Century, and dates back to the ancient worshiping that took place at the Nuestra Señora de la Antigua Sanctuary, the patron saint of the town.

The monument was erected in her honour on the Txarlazo peak and forms a part of the scenery. It is 25 metres tall and is located right on the spot where Bizkaia, Álava and Burgos meet. In 1639, during the repairs to the chapel, the Town Hall vowed to make a pilgrimage to this sanctuary every 8th May in the name of all the Orduñeses, as a show of their appreciation and devotion, and in remembrance of the appearance of the Virgin.

This ancient tradition has brought about the celebration of one of the most well-known festivals in Bizkaia: numerous visitors flock here every year to witness the traditional and festive atmosphere of the Ochomayos, which, last year attracted around 12,000 people. The Foru Plaza is the main site for the events, such as the “baño en el pilón”, but the festival is also present in many of its streets, with txosnas (fairground rides), bars, cuadrillas (groups of friends), txarangas (popular musical bands), etc.

The figure that symbolizes this festival is the BIOTZA, the municipal txistulari and a 19th Century popular Orduñés character, who is burnt at the end of the Ochomayos. But before this, we have pelota matches, bullfights, street processions, concerts and good food that await all those who wish to venture into this lively festival.