Basque Culture in Boise
If you are not already familiar with the Basque culture and where it resides in downtown Boise, this blog is for you! Basque culture in Boise has become very prominent and brings a lot of history to the Treasure Valley area. Regardless of who you are, Basques welcome you to learn their culture!
Who Are the Basques?
Basques are a distinct cultural and ethnic group who predominantly live in the Basque Country, a region located in the western Pyrenees mountains that spans parts of northern Spain and south western France. They have a unique language known as Basque (or Euskara) which has no relation to any other language. The Basque’s rich cultural heritage makes them known for their strong sense of identity and religion. Basques have a long history and have played a significant role in many surrounding regions, and in Boise, which happens to have the largest community of Basque people per capita in the U.S.
Basques came to Idaho dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s to work as sheepherders. The Gold Rush of 1849 influenced Basque immigrants to migrate to the United States in hopes for a better life. Due to a large need for meat and wool, America had an influx in many job opportunities and the Transcontinental Railroad allowed a safer and cheaper route that was less expensive to travel to the American West and settle into community boarding houses.
What started out as many Basque males traveling alone, led to a chain migration of Basque people to the American West and the rest of the country. By the 1950’s, the sheep industry was slowing down and there was less of a demand for workers. Immigration had slowed down, and there was no longer a need for boarding houses. Many Basque people chose to stay and raise many generations of family members while continuing to celebrate their history and culture in the heart of downtown Boise!
Exploring Basque Block
Located in downtown Boise, Basque Block is a vibrant hub renowned for its language, dance, art, cuisine, and festive spirit. It has been known to host events for national organizations, weddings, educational programs and so much more. There are four restaurants on this block, many of which you can indulge in delicious Basque food. One of these restaurants includes the Basque Market, a restaurant that serves many tapas/pintxos that remain traditional to Basque food and host classes, events and catering. Furthermore, the Basque Market holds Idaho's largest collection of both Spanish and Basque wines.
Another one of my favorite Basque restaurants in Boise is Ansots, which is in close proximity to Basque Block. When the boys were little, we lived in Toledo, Spain for a year and although we never got to check out Basque Country there, the Basque food at Ansots takes us right back!
Fun fact, my cousin who lived in Spain and is married to a Spaniard, says that we have the best Spanish food she has had in the United States!
In addition to the yummy food and wine, you’ll find The Basque Museum and Cultural Center. The museum aims to preserve and promote Basque culture. There you can find exhibits that walk you through the history of Basques in the area, and you can also sign up for a guided tour!
Basque Traditions
The Basques are known for sharing their vibrant traditions with us on an annual basis.
Among these traditions is the celebration of San Sebastián Day, which occurs on January 20th of each year. This festive occasion includes the renowned Tamborrada Festival. Participants wear traditional Basque attire and engage in drumming performances. The festival holds deep significance for the people of San Sebastián as they pay homage to their patron saint, Saint Sebastian, who is believed to have protected the city during the plague outbreaks.
Another cherished event is the San Inazio Festival, a yearly gathering that pays tribute to St. Ignatius of Loyola, the patron saint of the Basques. What started over 25 years ago has now become a cherished tradition on Basque Block. Every July, people from near and far travel to attend this festival. They enjoy performances by local musicians and dancers, and witness exciting Basque Sporting events, including pala, a sport similar to racquetball. This event has become a local highlight of the summer season.
Basques also have a super awesome tradition called Jaialdi, which happens to be the biggest Basque cultural celebration in the world! It all started back in 1987 when they threw a weekend celebration at the old Idaho State Penetentiary, but everyone loved it so much that it became an annual event here in Boise. Now, every July on the last weekend, people come together to celebrate and immerse themselves in Basque culture.
Make sure you don’t miss the chance to explore Basque Block and uncover the history of the people and place it’s named after. The Basque’s have played a significant role in shaping the identity of Boise as you know it today!
