This traditional Basque character is the key figure at Christmas, a carbonero (charcoal burner) who comes down from his farmhouse in the mountains loaded with presents for children. Unseen, he visits all the houses in the Basque Country on Christmas Eve.
For the past few years, a lively parade of the Olentzero has been organised in Bilbao on 23rd December. Riding a pottoka (pony) and accompanied by Mari Domingi with her goose and mischievous galtzagorris (pixies), the procession runs down Gran Vía from Plaza Moyúa and then on to the Teatro Arriaga, where the Olenztero stays the night. On the morning of 24th December he welcomes all the boys and girls who want to meet him and give him their letters with their wishes for presents.
Establishments nearby
Arenal, 5 (Junto al Metro Casco Viejo salida San Nicolás) (Bilbao)
Bars and cafés | Restaurants
0.10 km
Accommodation nearby
