When & Where: Every year in late October, in the village of Espelette. In 2026, the festival will take place on October 24 and 25.
The Fête du Piment d’Espelette, commonly known in English as the Pepper Festival in Espelette, is one of the best-known gastronomic celebrations in the northern Basque Country. Held annually in Espelette, the festival celebrates the famous Espelette pepper, a product that has become an international symbol of Basque cuisine and agricultural heritage.
The History of Espelette Pepper
The Espelette pepper, known locally as Piment d’Espelette, was introduced to the Basque Country from the Americas during the 16th century through maritime trade routes linked to the Atlantic coast. Farmers in Lapurdi gradually adapted the crop to the local climate, and over time the pepper became an essential ingredient in Basque gastronomy.
Today, the product holds protected designation status under the French AOP system, which regulates production methods and guarantees regional authenticity. The drying red peppers hanging from the white façades of traditional Basque houses have become one of the defining visual images of Espelette.
Gastronomy, Food and Basque Culture
The festival reflects the strong relationship between food, agriculture, and cultural identity in the Basque Country. During the event, visitors can taste products made with Espelette pepper, including cured meats, cheeses, sauces, chocolate, and traditional Basque dishes.
Wine and regional beverages also play an important role, with local producers from the French Basque Country presenting wines, cider, and artisanal products alongside culinary demonstrations and market stalls. Music, dancing, and Basque rural traditions are integrated into the celebration, creating an atmosphere that combines gastronomy with community heritage.
Practical Information for Visitors
The festival usually takes place during the last weekend of October and attracts thousands of visitors to the small village of Espelette. Streets are often crowded throughout the weekend, particularly during the ceremonial blessing of the pepper harvest and traditional parades.
Because parking in the village becomes limited during the festival, many visitors arrive early or use regional transport connections from nearby towns such as Bayonne and Biarritz.
Posted on May 25, 2026
