A Basque in Boise

A week-long celebration in Boise to honor the Basque language

Euskara Eguna PosterAs many of you already know, December 3rd is the day of Euskara, the Basque language. As opposed to previous years, Boise will keep the celebrations going for an entire week!

The International Day of the Basque Language, annually celebrated on December 3rd, was institutionalized by the Basque Government and the Royal Academy of the Basque language (Euskaltzaindia) in 1995.

However, its origins go back to 1948, when the 7th Congress of Eusko Ikaskuntza-Society for Basque Studies reached the following agreement: “a day of the Basque language will be celebrated worldwide once a year on December 3rd.”

Following that proclamation, Euskara celebrated its first International Day in 1949, to vindicate the universality of the Basque Language.

December 3rd is St Francis Xavier day, a missionary from Navarre born in the 16th century. According to the legend, his last words before dying on December 3rd, 1552, were in Basque.

On the occasion of the International Day of the Basque Language, public and private entities alike, as well as various associations, organize several activities (roundtables, exhibitions, workshops, conferences, cultural performances, etc.) to celebrate and support Euskara.

Check the Schedule of events to organize your week. Don’t miss it!

December 1 – 1:00-5:00 pm
Christmas Caroling
Bihotzetik Basque Choir Christmas Caroling throughout Boise.

Dec. 2 – 6:00-8:00 pm
3 Documentaries about Basque – Past and present
BSU Basque Studies is screening 3 short documentaries about Basque language and culture (with English subtitles). BSU BoDo. Free admission.

Dec. 3 – 6:00-8:00 pm
Rehearsals
Txantxangorriak and Boiseko Gazteak final rehearsal for winter show.

First Thursday Events
Dec. 5 – 5:30-8:30 pm – Holiday Sale and First Thursday Christmas celebration
At the Basque Museum and Cultural Center. Free admission, local musicians and guided tours.

Dec. 5 – 8:00-11:00 pm – Amuma Says No
At Leku Ona

Dec. 7 – 11:00 am-1:00 pm
Saturday Market
Oinkari Basque Dancers will be giving free dance lessons at the Grove Plaza in conjunction with the Capital City Public Market.

Dec. 8 – 12:30 pm
Winter Show and Celebration
Txantxangorriak and Boiseko Gazteak winter performance at Borah High School. Following the show head to the Basque Center to meet Olentzero, read a story and sing Basque songs.

Thanks for passing by: ↓

maria jesus jimenez Anne Marie

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