When & Where: In May, in Pasai San Pedro

The Pasaia Maritime Festival ( Pasaia Itsas Festibala ) is an internationally renowned maritime festival held in the coastal town of Pasaia, Gipuzkoa. This biennial event celebrates the town’s rich seafaring history and brings together traditional ships, maritime culture, and enthusiasts from across Europe and beyond. Set against the stunning backdrop of Pasaia’s natural harbor, the festival offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the region’s maritime heritage firsthand.

First organized in 2018, the Pasaia Itsas Festibala quickly established itself as a significant cultural event in the Basque Country. The festival spans several days and takes place primarily in the districts of Pasai Donibane (San Juan) and Pasai San Pedro, with activities and exhibits extending throughout the town’s bay.

The event’s highlight is the arrival of historic ships, including sailing vessels, traditional fishing boats, and replicas of historical crafts. These ships anchor in the bay, creating a floating museum that visitors can explore. Among the notable vessels are the reconstruction of the 16th-century whaling ship San Juan, crafted at Pasaia’s Albaola Sea Factory, and other iconic ships from across Europe.

Beyond the ships, the festival features a vibrant program of activities, including maritime workshops, live music, traditional Basque dances, and culinary offerings. Demonstrations of traditional shipbuilding, rowing competitions, and storytelling sessions further immerse visitors in the region’s maritime culture. Local artisans and vendors also display their crafts, emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural heritage.

More information: https://pasaiaitsasfestibala.org/