Every year in the Basque Country, the last weekend of October is marked by the Espelette Pepper Festival. It’s the perfect opportunity to experience this Southwestern tradition, with lively street performances by bandas. Featuring concerts, banquets, and the must-have moment of tasting the iconic Basque pepper, it’s always a time of warmth and joy. For your stay during this festive weekend, discover our 4-star campsite in Bidart, Camping Erreka, located just 22 km from Espelette.
Espelette Pepper Festival: Warmth and Cheerfulness
The Espelette Pepper Festival takes place during the last weekend of October and celebrates the end of the harvest of this iconic Basque pepper. Each year, more and more visitors flock to Espelette to immerse themselves in this tradition. Here, the pepper is treated like a true star! On Sunday morning, a special ceremony is held in Espelette’s Saint-Étienne Church, featuring a Basque mass and a choir. During the ceremony, the priest blesses the peppers to ensure a successful harvest for the following year.
Throughout the festival, tourists can witness the procession of brotherhoods and the induction ceremony. This highly anticipated moment sees the parade winding through the village streets toward the Château des Barons d’Ezpeleta. There, new members are inducted, and the prestigious "Pepper Prize" is awarded. Each year, medals are presented to professionals from the world of sports, entertainment, or gastronomy.
Honoring Tradition Throughout the Espelette Pepper Festival
As part of the tradition, the fronton (pelota court) in Espelette hosts a Makilaris performance during the festival, paying tribute to the Napoleonic Guard’s military parades. Once lost, this tradition is now revived in Lower Navarre during the popular Espelette Pepper Festival. The goal? Twirl the makila (stick) around the fingers and hands before launching it into the air.
On Sunday afternoon, the streets come alive with the vibrant sounds of bandas. With a varied and much-loved repertoire, the musicians delve into traditional Basque, Landes, and Navarrese music. In the evening, the festival culminates with traditional Basque and Spanish songs performed in front of the church. This impromptu concert is followed by a banquet featuring garbure, veal axoa, sheep’s cheese, and Basque cake.
Our 4-star campsite in Bidart welcomes you throughout the festivities
To host you during the Espelette Pepper Festival, our 4-star campsite in Bidart is ready to welcome you. Located just 22 kilometers from Espelette, you’ll enjoy a comfortable stay in a fully equipped mobile home that can accommodate 2 to 8 guests.
Whether with friends or family, this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy an idyllic setting, just a stone’s throw from the Atlantic Ocean waves. Nestled in a preserved natural environment, your future mobile home includes all modern conveniences. If you’re looking for a unique rental experience during your holidays for the Espelette Pepper Festival, we also offer our Coco Sweet lodge—a nature-inspired accommodation to awaken your adventurous spirit.
Throughout the Espelette Pepper Festival, dive into our aquatic area with a heated pool and fun-filled amenities. For seaside holidays, visit the stunning beaches of the Basque coast, located just 800 meters from the campsite. Surfing, bodyboarding, or simply relaxing on the sand—there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And since the Basque Country is brimming with culinary treasures, we invite you to savor local delicacies at our on-site restaurant.
Come experience the Espelette Pepper Festival with a stay at Camping Erreka!