What most people know is the running of the bulls in Pamplona.. A lesser known cousin of the festival is Fêtes de Bayonne. http://www.fetes.bayonne.fr
Held on the French side of Basque Country in the town of Bayonne, the festivals last 5 days and starts on the Wednesday before the first Sunday of August. Participants dress in white and red celebrate on the streets with lots of drinks and activities that goes on the whole day.
The Good
The atmosphere is great and there is a great deal of fun and activities all day long. It also it also not 'touristic'- it has an extremely local and rustic feel to it.. my measurement of this? You don't see many Americans talking loudly and Asians with cameras everywhere (I was one of the very few). Hahahaha. This means not many people know about it and has yet to flock there in droves.
So if you like street parties and a good fiesta- this is the place to be..
Don't miss
Everything! Just soak up the atmosphere, enjoy the party. The city is beautiful and nice to walk around. But try the flavoured beer- it's basically normal beer with some flavoured beverage syrups like monin.. actually taste very good :) If you are a beer lover though.. be reminded that France is not famous for its beer.. and there is a good reason why.
The Bad & The Ugly
What to beware of? The shops mostly close its toilets and that means the streets become a giant urinal with people easing themselves everywhere!! I was there the first 2 days of the festival and it has already started to smell.. I could not imagine how the city will smell on day 5!! I was told there by some friends who was there on day 4 and 5 that it was.. 'strong'..
While at the 'opening ceremony' of the festival, I also experienced a scare. One thing to note is the Basque nationalism movement- advocating for either further political autonomy or, chiefly, full independence of the Basque Country. So while in a packed square filled with people, some activist stared some fireworks and rolled down a banner that says 'freedom for Basque Country' For the first time, I was scared.. and this is coming from the person who went to Jakarta and Bali right after their respective bombing and Phuket after Tsunami.. but at that point of time.. even if it was not a bomb- anyone in the crowd could be trampled to death if there was a panic stampede.
Certain streets are also strongholds of activist and tourist best beware of the local etiquettes to observe when you are there. Nationalist vibes are incredibly strong among the activists and as a responsible tourist it is best to be aware.
Another note, not many people speak English and hence some preparation to allow you ask some basic questions and information to get around is necessary prior to the trip.. or just go with some French speaking people.. also don't forget to book where you want to stay early!!
I did not take a lot of pictures of the partying at night.. because it will be dangerous for my camera.. but here are some pictures. As a whole, I would definitely rate this as something you should see and experience!!
notes: check out of course the original Sanfermines/Sanferminak and smaller celebration in quaint smaller towns such as fetes de tyross.
Here are some pictures of a house party in tyross. lots of food, drinks and singing..
When: July 2011
With: Fred
Ratings: 3*
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