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MERRY BILBAO
Enjoy our way of celebrating Christmas
PU 14 2012
CONTENTS Introduction
3
Useful Information
4
Musts
5
Traditions
11
Bilbao by Land, Sea and Air
14
Kutxabank Mendi Film Festival Bilbao
16
Cultural Agenda
18
• Markets and Fairs
18
• Exhibitions
18
• Concerts
22
• Jazz
24
• Classical Music
25
• Opera and Zarzuela Operetta
27
• Dance
28
• Basque Dances and Bertsolaris Story Telling 29 • Theatre, Musicals and Circus
29
• Puppets
32
• Sports
33
Festive Parties and Bibao Nightlife
34
Bizkaia
35
Christmas Carols
36
3
4
MERRY BILBAO! In December and at Christmas, Bilbao is all about making sure that your stay in the city, your leisure activities and time spent with your family is filled with happiness. Come and enjoy this Merry Bilbao that will be sure to delight and amaze you, a city that will warmly welcome you to its streets brimming with history, modern avenues and where you can discover its traditions and the figure that best embodies the Christmas spirit: the Olentzero. Have a merry time in Bilbao at this time of the year that is about getting together, celebrations, hope, good wishes... visit the Christmas markets, immerse yourself in our culture with a pintxo (tapa) washed down with a tixkito, a glass of wine. Enjoy the warm welcome, the good food, first-rate shopping and our traditions. This Christmas, have yourself a Merry Bilbao!
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USEFUL INFORMATION Bilbao Turismo Offices Opening Hours Ensanche Office Weekdays: 9.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. and 4.00 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. Weekends and public holidays: CLOSED 9.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. on 24 and 31 December Guggenheim Office (Next to the Museum) Tuesday to Friday: 11.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. Saturdays: 11.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m. Sundays: 11.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m. 6 to 9 December: 11.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m. CLOSED every Monday, on 25 December and 1 January Arriaga Office (Ground floor of the Arriaga Theatre) From Monday to Friday: 11.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. and 5.00 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. Saturdays: 9.30 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. and 5.00 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. Sundays: 9.30 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. 6 to 9 December: 9.30 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. and 4.00 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. 24 and 31 December: 11.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. CLOSED on 25 December and 1 January www.bilbao.net/bilbaoturismo Tel. 94 479 57 60
Bilbao Card The Bilbao Card lets you use the urban public transport at a special rate. You will also get significant discounts on guided visits of the city, tourist buses, at museums, leisure establishments, shops, restaurants, for shows and other services.
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The Bilbao Card is available for 1, 2 or 3 days. It is available from the Bilbao Turismo offices or from the website: www.bilbao.net/bilbaoturismo
Booking Centre bilbaoreservas.com is the official Bilbao Turismo service to make it easy for visitors to book any tourist service in the city. www.bilbaoreservas.com Tel.: 902 877 298
Shop Opening Hours Christmas is clearly one of the busiest times for the retail trade in Bilbao. The shop windows are beautifully decorated to showcase their best products, creating a warm and welcoming setting that is really worth experienced. Visitors to Bilbao can enjoy the atmosphere and take some time to shop between 10.00 a.m. to 1.30 p.m. and from 4.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m. Most shops are closed all day on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. .
Telephone Numbers of Interest Ertzaintza (Basque National Police(. SOS-Deiak: 112 Local Police: 092 Bilbao International Airport: 902 404 704 Family time
***All the activities in this leaflet may be subject to change.***
MUSTS Follow our recommendations and discover everything Bilbao has to offer this December and during the Christmas holidays. Activities to discover its history, traditions and architecture, outstanding and eye-catching exhibitions, music, dance, etc. Here are some of our “musts” to have a merry time in Bilbao.
The “Light” of Christmas Bilbao lights up for Christmas and the sparkling, twinkling and magical lights create a real seasonal spirit. Its streets are decorated with 498,480 state-of-the-art LEDS, along with 25,000 metres of micro-bulb garlands and 306 of lit motifs. A real must is to stroll along the streets enjoying the Christmas lights, which are 100% low energy consumption.
Christmas Markets Lights in every corner, crafts, carol singing, typical products and the pleasure of shopping in a delightful setting. That is what you will find at the Christmas markets. St. Thomas’s Market is the most traditional one in Bilbao and thousands of people flock to the market on 21 December to enjoy the local culinary delights and the festive atmosphere. This market that dates back to the 19th century is set up in the Plaza Nueva square and the streets of the El Arenal district. 7
Christmas in Bilbao is also the time Venue: Calle Bailén of two other well-known events: the Time: 9.00 a.m. to 11.00 p.m. Bilbao Craft Fair and the Christmas Except on 23 December and 5 Flea Market. January: 9.00 a.m. to 2.00 a.m. • Craft Fair This fair features a wide range of products: ceramics, painting, costume jewellery, sliver and glass jewellery, leather, glass, carved wood, textiles, toys, etc. Interesting workshops, for example, on fashion design, making furniture out of recycled cardboard, glass or silk-painting, are organised alongside the fair. Musicians perform in and outside the venue throughout the fair.
Date: 19 December to 6 January. Venue: Alongside the Arriaga Theatre. Opening hours: 11.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. and 5.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m. CLOSED on 25 December and 1 January 11.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. on 6 January
The Delight of Christmas Shopping “Going shopping” in Bilbao is particularly attractive at Christmas. The shop windows are decorated with great care and the main shopping areas are bustling with seasonal activity. Bilbao’s more than 7,000 stores prepare exclusive promotions for Christmas, where you can find something special as a souvenir to take home with you or a truly tasteful gift for your family and friends. The traders’ associations of the city also organise a wide range of activities to capture and spread the Christmas spirit.
Further information: www.bilbaodendak.net
Nativity Scenes in Bilbao
Nativity Scenes have long been a tradition in Bilbao. This Christmas, their assortment, size and • Christmas Flea Market This Flea Market has over 40 detail can be admired in different stalls where you can buy sea- parts of the City: sonal products: Christmas de- • Porch of the Church of San corations, small craft items, Nicolás de Bari gifts, accessories, etc. Date: 1 December to 6 January Date: 8 December to 6 January. • Cloisters of Santiago Cathedral. Date: 1 December to 6 January • Otxarkoaga-Txurdinaga Civic Centre Date: 14 December to 6 January • MDiocesan Museum of Sacred Art: EThe “Nativity Scenes from Around the World” exhibition will be held in the museum’s cloisters. Date: 25 November to 5 January. • Museum of Holy Week Procession Floats: Exhibition of Nativity Scene, organised by the Bizkaia Association of Nativity Scene Makers and the Guild of Penitential Brotherhoods of the City of Bilbao.
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Date: 1 December to 6 January. CLOSED on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
CHRISTMAS PARADES: OLENTZERO AND THREE KINGS Yet again this year, the Olentzero and Melchior, Gaspar and Balthazar will visit our city to bring tons of seasonal excitement. This Christmas, many new features and surprises have been organised to welcome Their Majesties of the Orient and Olentzero, our lovable charcoal-maker.
his partner, Mari Domingi, and Basajaun mounted on a large goose and Lamia – another character from Basque mythology - and the galzagorris - elves in red trousers on board a huge tricycle. Olentzero appears as if by magic on the Gran Via at 7 p.m. and the parade then moves on to the Arriaga Theatre, where he spends the night. 24 December. Olentzero meets the children at Arriaga Theatre from 11.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. After a good night’s sleep and feeling refreshed, Olentzero and Mari Domingi spend the mor-
This year more than ever, these events are real musts not to be missed.
Olentzero 23 December. Olentzero comes to Bilbao. The Olentzero, the magical character who brings gifts to Basque homes, rides into the capital on a huge Pottoka – a breed of horse native to the Basque Country. He is accompanied by his entourage: 9
ning meeting and listening to the wishes of the boys and girls that come to the Arriaga Theatre. Then, in the afternoon, they set off around BIlbao’s neighbourhoods to continue spreading excitement.
the guests of Olentzero and Mari Domingi, and Mrs. Claus from the North Pole, St. Nicholas from Central Europe, Befana - Italy’s Christmas Witch, Ded Moroz and Snegutchka from Russia, Dun Che Lao Ben from China, Apalpador from Galicia and Tio Nadal (Uncle Christmas) from Catalonia will The Three King’s Parade visit the capital of Bizkaia. They will all be welcomed by the Mayor 5 January of Bilbao, Iñaki Azkuna. The chil6.00 p.m. The parade sets off dren will also have the chance to from the junction where Gran Vía hand in their Christmas letters at meets María Díaz de Haro. Alhóndiga Bilbao. Melchior, Gaspar and Balthazar sweep into Bilbao in a spectaPIN - Kids’ Christmas Park cular parade bursting with light, sound and colour. This year, Children are sure to have a Their Majesties will make their fun time when they visit the way along the Gran Via to the Kids’ Christmas Park, which Town Hall. has become a real tradition on 8.15 p.m. Meeting the children the Christmas calendar, in the in the Arab Room: The youngest Bilbao Exhibition Centre pavimembers of the family can visit lions, which will be home to a the Arab Room to deliver their letters with their wishes and dreams.
First Christmas Conference On 14 and 15 December, Bilbao will host the First Christmas Conference that will feature the main characters from around the world of this magical season. As 10
broad and varied programme of entertainment, fun and leisure activities. This year’s event will offer an outstanding selection of games, sporting activities, workshops and the traditional stalls. Date: 15 December to 5 January.
which will round off the evening as the audience claps along.
Date: 1 January Venue: Euskalduna Concert Hall Time: 8.00 p.m.
Choral Music
On Friday 14 and Saturday 15 December, you will be able to enjoy live choral music right in This year, the La Casilla Pavilion the heart of the shopping cenhas been turned into a ice palace tre of Bilbao. A dozen of choral where you can have fun skating. groups, which are deep-rooted Date: 5 December to 13 January. in the traditions of the Basque Countries, and musical ensembles Venue: La Casilla Pavilion. from Bilbao featuring saxophones, Opening hours: flutes, txistu, albokas and trikitixa 5 to 9 December. brighten up the streets to entertain 14 to 16 December. the people as they go about their 20 to 23 December. Christmas shopping in the city. 26 to 30 December. 2 to 6 January. Dantza Plazetan 11 to 13 January. 2012 Programme 10.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. and 3.30 p.m. to 10.30 p.m. It is one of the most acclaimed 10 to 13 December. cultural programmes in Bilbao. It 17 to 19 December. aims to showcase Basque popu7 to 10 January. lar folklore by organising pilgri5.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m. mages, dance performance and 24 and 31 December: street entertainments. 10.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. • Beti Jai Alia Group and 3.30 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. Date: 24 December. 25 December. Venue: Plaza Aita Donosti 10.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m. square and 5.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m. Time: 7.00 p.m. 1 January.
Ice Rink
5.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m.
• Salbatzaile Dantza Taldea
Date: 29 December. Venue: Plaza Santiago square Inspired by the traditional musi- Time: 8.00 p.m. cal highlight in Vienna each year, the New Year’s Concert returns after the success of previous years with an attractive selection of the best waltzes, polkas and marches by the Austrian composer, Johann Strauss. The Strauss Festival Orchestra will play such well-known pieces by the composer known as the Waltz King as Napoleon, Fantasy Flowers, Klipp Klapp, the Emperor Waltz or Champagne. And of course, they will play the most famous waltz of all, the Blue Danube, and the Radetzky March,
New Year’s Concert
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• Ondalan Erraldoien Konpartsa Date: 31 December. Venue: Luzarra (Giants on stilts) Time: 11.30 a.m.
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. “Egon Schiele”. “Claus Oldenburg. The Sixties”
of Claus Oldenburg, one of the most influential figures in the development of art since the Fifties. Oldenburg is not only a fundamental figure in pop art, performance and installation, but his large-scale projects have also greatly influence art for public spaces.
Fine Arts Museum. Fernando Botero The Guggenheim Museum is hosting the “Egon Schiele” exhibition, Under the title “Fernando Botero. a comprehensive approach to Celebration”, the Museum of Fine the great Austrian Expressionist’s Arts is hosting an anthological exhibition of this Colombian artist. It brings together eighty works produced in the last sixty-five years, the majority of which are from his private collection. It is a series of vigorous compositions, opulent forms and exuberant colours that celebrate the great Botero’s particular vision of painting.
Durango Basque Record and Book Fair This free-entry event and open to the general public is a benchmark of Basque culture. The fair features publishers, distributors, record companies and cultural institutions and agents whose works are in Basque or which address Basque issues in any language.
universe, through a selection of drawings and watercolours from the Albertina, Vienna. The exhibition features nearly a hundred works that trace the stylistic evoDate: 6 to 9 December 2012 lution of the artist. Venue: Landako Erakustazoka de “Claus Oldenburg. The Sixties”. Durango This is the largest exhibition coOpening hours: 10.30 a.m. to vering the early ground-breaking 8.00 p.m. and iconic work from the Sixties 12
TRADI
-TIONS The Christmas festivities are part of the ritual celebrations to mark the winter solstice. Even though the passing of time has meant that some customs no longer have their original role, some rituals still carry on but have been adapted to the present.
Olentzero The Olentzero is undeniably the main figure of Christmas in the Basque Country. His name comes from the expression Onen zaro, which in Basque means good era, a bountiful time. Each winter, this charcoal maker, with his big belly and beard, comes down the mountainside to bring the presents that the children of Bilbao have asked for in their letters. This character is today accompanied by his friend Mari Domingi and different figures from Basque mythology, including the Lamia and the
Galtzagorri elves. The entourage of the Olentzero makes its way through the streets and squares of Bilbao followed by the other members of the parade who collect the children’s letters to the sound of traditional carols.
The Bread Ritual EDuring the Christmas Eve dinner on 24 December, some homes continue to perform the ritual of the bread, which consists of blessing this food by making the signing of the cross with a knife. A piece is then cut off and the people cross themselves with it. This tip of the loaf is kept until the next year. According to popular belief, it has beneficial pro-
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perties. During the dinner, they sing carols and songs such as “Ator, ator”, “Horra Mari Domingi”, “Mesias sarritan” and then the family plays cards.
New Year’s Eve Singing
(nougat), polvorones (almond cookies) and marizpan feature among the desserts. Today’s menus feature tasty dishes such as: • Fresh Chorizo dishes snails or salt cod.
with
• Green sauce for any of the cuts of hake, from the Kokotxa or As regards the celebrations on 31 cheeks to the tail. December and 1 January, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, • Treats from the vegetable garan ancient song is sung during den: Cauliflowers and sprouts the dinner to mark the passing with garnishes from the St. from one year to another. : Martin pig slaughter. New new year • Seafood always boiled in The one that has to the one seawater. with nothing • Christmas soup, seafood conI have nothing and for me sommés and farm stocks. Pig’s ear • St. Thomas capon with bitter New new year The one who has to the one rocket salad. with nothing “Turrón de Soconusco” I have nothing and for me nougat. Pig’s ear Particularly chocolate, white Up Mount Gorbea praline, toasted praline, truffle and coated with chocolate. On 1 January, it is usual to have These are the basic ingredients hot chocolate for breakfast. traditionally used to prepare “TuAnother tradition dating back rrón de Sokonusko” nougat. The many years is to climb up Mount origin of this nougat is a mix of Gorbea on the morning of New history and legend. The story Year’s Day, which attracts thougoes that at the beginning of the sands of people in Bizkaia. 17th century, a man from Bizkaia called Iñigo Urruti set off to the Typical dishes and New World to make his fortune Sweets at Christmas and to search for the mythical “El Dorado”, but he found soIn the past, the majority of the mething much sweeter on his food eaten at Christmas came journey, the cocoa tree. The from the local farmsteads, and wise Urrutia saw a good busiincluded pork, cured beef, eggs, ness opportunity and after travepoultry, nuts, honey, freshlylling through different provinces, baked bread and vegetables, he reached Santa Ana de Socoparticularly, cabbage, etc. People nusco, on the border between also always bought special treats Mexico and Guatemala, where to celebrate these dates, fundahe came across the native comentally, fish and sweets, food coa of that zone that he brought that did not come from the farms. back to the bakery that his family Some typical dishes were cabbage ran in Bilbao. with oil, cod, bream and snails in tomato sauce, food that could be eaten when keeping vigil. As regards the desserts, the intxaursalsa (a walnut cream) and compote were the sweets par excellence. Nowadays, these products are usually mixed in dishes with other more modern tastes and turrón 14
St. Thomas’s Market
La Ribera Market
On 21 December, the streets around the Plaza Nueva square and El Arenal become the largest showcase of local farm produce and meat products Thousands of people flock there to try the local products and, above all, the traditional talo corn flatbread with chorizo sausage and the txakoli wine. Another fundamental ingredient is the festive atmosphere thanks to the street entertainers and Basque music playing in the background.
The recently refurbished La Ribera Market, a temple to gastronomy on the banks of the river estuary, is another must in the search for succulent food. It is a retail flagship for the whole of Bizkaia. In the run-up to Christmas, thousands of people flock there to shop with the guarantee that they will find the best of the best being sold at the market.
www.mercadodelaribera.net
This market was first held in the 19th century. At that time, the tenants from the Bizkaia farmsteads used to come to Bilbao on 21st December to pay the owners of the farms, most of whom lived in the city, the rent for the year. Apart from money, the baserritarras or farmers brought along the best products from the land they worked: vegetables, cheese, fruit, txakoli wine, cider, talo flatbread, homemade bread, honey, animals, plants and flowers.
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BILBAO by Land, Sea and Air
You just have to choose the best way to discover Bilbao and the one you prefer. We have come up with different ways to visit the city that capture its essence and history. By land, sea and air, different and spectacular perspectives of a Bilbao brimming with history and spots to be photographed.
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Guided Walking Tours Discover Bilbao and its Christmas traditions as a professional guide takes you around two areas that capture the seasonal feel of the city: theCasco Viejo [Old Town] and Ensanche-Abandoibarra.
Saturdays and Sundays: Casco Viejo at 10.00 a.m. and Ensanche-Abandoibarra at 12.00 noon. 6 to 9 December, everyday: Casco Viejo at 10.00 a.m. and Ensanche-Abandoibarra at 12.00 noon. 26 and 28 December: EnsancheAbandoibarra at 12.00 noon. 27 December: Casco Viejo at 10.00 a.m. 6 January: There will be no visits. For further information and prices, call 94 479 57 60
Visit to the City Hall and the Ibaigane Palace Learn everything there is to know about two iconic buildings of Bilbao: The City Hall and the Ibaigane Palace, official home to Bilbao’s Athletic Football Club. During the visit to the city hall, you will be able to visit rooms such as the spectacular Arab Room or the Assembly Hall. The visit to the Ibaigane Palace will be an opportunity to visit a key building in the Neo-Basque style.
The visits are organised at 11.00 a.m. on every Sunday in December. Tickets are available from the Bilbao Turismo Office located in the ground-floor of the Arriaga Theatre. For further information and prices, call 94 479 57 60
Tourist Bus A comfortable way to see the city from a different perspective. Bilbao Tourist Tour Bus offers you a comprehensive and privileged view of the capital of Bizkaia.
The tourist bus runs until 31 December at the following times: 6, 7 and 8 December: 11.00 a.m. – 12.00 noon – 1.00 p.m. – 3.00 p.m. and 4.00 p.m. Rest of the month: 11.00 a.m. – 12.00 noon and 1.00 p.m. No service on Tuesdays. Departure time: Alameda Mazarredo (Opposite No. 67) www.busturistikoa.com
Departures every 15 minutes from 7.15 a.m. to 10.00 p.m. Service on Sundays and Public Holidays from: 8.15 a.m. Service. on 24 and 31 December stops at. 9.00 p.m. 25 December and 1 January: 9.15 a.m. to 2.30 p.m. and 14.30 p.m. to 10.00 p.m.
Sailing through Bilbao Learn about the history of Bilbao in a cultural boat trip down the river estuary. This is an opportunity to enjoy a delightful boat trip on a modern vessel as you see the city from a different angle from the water as you sail along.
Tel.: 94 642 41 57 and 644 442 055 Daily Sailing through Bilbao (1 hour trip) Departures: 1.00 p.m., 4.00 p.m., 5.30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays: Off to Sea (2 hour trip) Departure time: 10.30 p.m. No service on 24, 25, 31 December and 1 and 6 January www.bilboats.com
Panoramic View of the City One of the best panoramic views of Bilbao is from the top of Mount Artxanda, which is reached in the funicular railway that came into service in 1915. You can see all the architectural landmarks of the city and the winding river estuary below. It is also an ideal spot to enjoy being outdoors, do some sport or enjoy a traditional dish. 17
KUTXABANK MENDI
FILM FESTIVAL BILBAO Kutxabank Mendi Film Festival Bilbao 14 to 23 December
best film directors and the outstanding figures in the different activities, including skiing, climbing, ethnography, extreme sports, etc. During one week, the general public will be able to enjoy the best audiovisual works and films made since last January.
The V Kuxtabank International Mendi Mountain Film Festival is coming to Bilbao: a magnificent opportunity to enjoy the best Yet the festival also boasts pafilms on mountains. Kutxabank Mendi Film Festival rallel activities: audiovisual and seeks to disseminate the moun- photography courses, exhibitain culture that it showcases tions, vertical theatre, slack line, from different aspects: films, a mountain hike to Pagasarri and literature, photography and mu- tree planting. sic underpinned by the values of respecting the environment and the spirit of improvement and team work.
Bilbao will become the capital of mountain culture. Come and join in this challenge.
More information on the proThis International Festival is a key grammed activities at: event and meeting point for the www.medifilmfestival.com
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Pagasarri People who love the great outdoors have their own Christmas tradition. The hike to Pagasarri is being organised yet again this year. The date with the Bilbao “txapela� on Sunday 23 December on this occasion. Thousands of people enjoy this mountain pilgrimage to enjoy nature and the magnificent view from these heights over the capital of Bizkaia.
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CULTURAL
AGENDA You will find here everything you need to organise your leisure time: Information, dates, opening hours, etc. on all the sport and cultural activities planned for this month and during the Christmas holidays.
XXXVI Desembalaje Antiques Fair Furniture, paintings, sculptures, lamps, costume jewellery, gems, porcelain, items for collectors, garments, walking sticks, field tools, etc., all of which have to be at least 40 years old.
Date: 15 and 16 December:
MARKETS AND FAIRS
Opening hours: 10.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m.
IV Bilbao Nativity Scene Markers’ Fair
EXHIBITIONS
The Bilbao Nativity Scene craftspeople and associations will sell items and miniature figures for you to make your own Nativity Scene at home.
Date: Until 9 December. Venue: El Arenal Opening hours: 10.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. and 5.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m.
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Venue: Bilbao Exhibition Centre
A real must among the wide variety of cultural activities available in Bilbao is to visit the major exhibitions being hosted by the city’s museums and exhibition centres.
Bilbao Fine Arts Museum
Guggenheim Bilbao Museum
www.museobilbao.com The Bilbao Fine Arts Museum boasts a permanent collection covering from the 13th century to the present, with important paintings from the Spanish and Flemish schools, along with the best collection of Basque artists. It includes major works by Martín de Vos, El Greco, Ribera, Zurbaran, Murillo, Gentileschi, Goya, Sorolla, Cassatt, Gauguin, Zuloaga, Bacon, Chillida, Tápies and Barceló. The Museum is also currently hosting two temporary exhibitions: “Celebración” by the Latin-American artist Fernando Botero and “Giovanni Battista Piranesi” with works by this master of engraving.
www.guggenheim-bilbao.es The most important artists from the second half of the 20th century are showcased at the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, including Eduardo Chillida, Richard Serra, Yves Klein, Jeff Koons, Jenny Holzer or Richard Long. The temporary exhibitions currently being staged alongside the collection are “Egon Schiele”, Claus Oldenburg. “The Sixties” and “Inhabited Architecture”. And they are also on at Christmas… • Treasure Hunt and drawing Children aged 3 to 12 will need to use their detective skills when they set off on the Treasure Hunt at the Museum. There is also a drawing and play area designed specifically for them in the atrium. Date: 17 December to 6 January. Venue: Atrium and rooms of the Museum. Opening hours: 10.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m.
Alhóndiga Bilbao www.alhondigabilbao.com This former wine warehouse, which was refurbished and transformed under the watchful eye of Philippe Starck, has become an innovative culture and recreational centre. Visit its exhibitions, be seduced by its spectacular spaces, wander around the 43 columns that make up its central 21
courtyard and enjoy the exce- Diocesan Museum llent programme of activities. www.eleizmuseoa.com • ‘Project Bilbao’. Photography exhibition that focuses on the The Diocesan Museum is hosgrassroots input as a driving ting the VIII “Nativity Scenes from factor of the urban transforma- Around the World” exhibition. Date: Until 5 January. tion of the New Bilbao. Venue: Museum cloisters Date: Until 13 January 2013
Free Entry. • Gabonak Arte Activities for children between 5 and 12 which focus on the different arts (science, technology, architecture, dance, music, films, etc.).
Time: Tuesday to Friday: 10.30 a.m. to 1.30 p.m. and 4.30 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. Sundays and public holidays: 10.30 a.m. to 1.30 p.m. On Mondays, on 25 December and 1 January: CLOSED
And it is running children’s work Dates: 26, 27 and 28 December shops for 5-9 year olds at Christ2012, and 2, 3 and 4 January mas. 10.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. on 26 to 30 December and 2 to 4 January. 2013. Opening hours: 11.00 a.m. to 2.30 Further information: 94 432 01 25 p.m. and 5.00 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. museo@eleizmuseoa.com
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Arkeologi Museoa Archaeological Museum
Maritime Museum
www.bizkaia.net/arkeologimuseoa
www.museomaritimobilbao.org
Located in the dock areas of the former Euskalduna shipyards, in Abandoibarra, the Maritime Museum offers the following programme: • “Light Skin”. Central sculpture of the “Bilbao Guggenheim ++” exhibition area at the Shanghai Family workshops: The ChristWorld Fair 2010. mas workshops will be run from 11.30 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. from 26 • “ R.M.S. Titanic, How it was Built and Why it Sank”, “A Century of December to 4 January. Surf” and “Memories of José Further information: 94 404 09 90 Ramón de la Rica: Vessels of or arkeologimuseoa@bizkaia.net Basque Shipping Companies”.
The permanent exhibition takes the visitors through the history of Bizkaia by means of the materials unearthed archaeological digs. The “Euskal Herria in the 5th to 8th centuries” exhibition will run until April 2013.
Basque Museum www.euskal-museo.org Based in a Baroque-style building in the Casco Viejo or Old Town of Bilbao, the exhibitions of this museum show the cultural and historical evolution of Basque Society.
• You can also visit the 50-metre long Dutch Sailing Ship, “Mercedes”, at the museum dock until next March.
Reproductions Museum www.museoreproduccionesbilbao.org
Copies of the most important sculptures down through the ages are on show at this museum. At Christmas, you can visit the “Akropolis: Mito Biziak”, which will take you through the Acropolis as a mythical and religious symbol, by means of the sculptures belonging to the museum collection, and “Zubiz Zubi” exhibitions. 23
Athletic Club Museum www.athletic-club.net Situated in the heart of San Mamés Stadium, the museum showcases the history of our hundred-year-old club by means of the kit, flags, photographs, trophies, etc. The entrance to the Museum also includes a guided visit of the stadium (VIP lobby, boxes, press room, changing room, benches and stands). The current temporary exhibitions are “A Century of Stickers”, “20112012, a Season to Remember” and “50 Years of Iribar at Athletic Club”.
CONCERTS Fito & Fitipaldis Concert On this tour, Fito and Fitipaldis creates a cosier and more intimate atmosphere. During the concert, the band led by Adolfo Cabrales, Fito, from Bilbao plays his best known hits, along with songs that do not regularly feature in his repertory that have been recovered for this occasion.
Date: 6, 7 and 8 December: Venue: Euskalduna Concert Hall. Times: 6 December: 8.30 p.m 7 and 8 December: 9.00 p.m.
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Music Legends Series. Jorma Kaukonen with Barry Mitterhoff Jorma Kaukonnen is considered a leading performer and master of fingerstyle guitar. Jorma gets his inspiration from the most lively and energetic rock on the current scene and from the tradition of the Blues and American folk Els Amics de les Arts music. Coming under the so-called Catalan folk pop, their songs are Date: 11 December. small everyday stories produced Venue: Sala BBK with simple melodies, with touTime: 8.00 p.m. ches of electronics, puns and a great deal of irony.
Mónica Molina
Date: 13 December.
Mónica Molina showcases her la- Venue: Arteria Campos Eliseos test recording work, “Mar Blanca”, Theatre Cúpula Room. in memory of her father, Antonio Time: 8.30 p.m. Molina, a legend of Spanish music and coinciding with the 20th Mamba Beat anniversary of his death.
Date: 13 December. Venue: Arteria Campos Eliseos Theatre, Theatre Room Time: 8.30 p.m.
MAMA BEAT was set up in Bilbao in 2006 and features the electronic rhythm.
Date: 14 December. Venue: AlhóndigaBilbao atrium Time: 8.00 p.m. Free Entry.
Musiketan series. Tom Russell Tom Russell is a master of the narrative and Mesabi, his new album, features some of the most acclaimed and irresistible stories of this singer-songwriter so far. Date: 16 December. Venue: Sala BBK Time: 8.00 p.m.
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JAZZ Arturo Stable 4tet. Date: 6 December. Venue: Bilbaína jazz club Time: 10.00 p.m.
Kasper Tranberg Trio Date: 13 December. Venue: Bilbaína Jazz Club In this concert, Tontxu will per- Time: 10.00 p.m. form a selection of the songs that he recorded on his 8 records released since 1997. Some of his Jam Session teachers and friends of his youth Date: 20 December. will be here to support him on Venue: Hika Ateneo such a special day. The concert Time: 7.30 p.m. opens with Kepa Junkera with his magical Trikitixa (Basque New Year’s Super Jam accordion). Session Date: 17 December. Venue: Arteria Campos Eliseos Date: 26 December. Theatre Time: 8.00 p.m. Venue: Bilbaína Jazz Club Time: 10.00 p.m. Mikel Urdangarín
Tontxu
Mikel Urdangarin, the Basque singer-songwriter, has produced a record that oozes autumn, with an unpublished format and a sound that has never been heard before. Date: 6 January Venue: Arriaga Theatre Time: 7.00 p.m.
Bilborock
Niña Pastori
www.bilbao.net
Niña Pastori returns to the stage after her time away to have a child in her “Ya No Quiero Ser” tour. In this show, the singer from Cadiz performs her past hits along with some brand new numbers, such as the one that the tour is called after.
Date: 16 December. Venue: Arteria Campos Eliseos Theatre Time: 7.00 p.m.
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This former church, which has been refurbished for cultural activities, is located right in the heart of the city’s old town. It puts on a varied programme for people of all ages: concerts, children’s activities, ballet, etc.
CLASSICAL MUSIC
BOS - Bilbao Symphony Orchestra Chamber Concert
Bilbao Municipal Band
The orchestra will play pieces by: G. Bottesini, G. Rossini and M. Glinka Date: 10 December. Venue: Euskalduna Concert Hall. Time: 8.00 p.m.
The oboe player sponsored by Yamaha, Roberto Turlo Bernau, who has performed with musicians of the ilk of Alfredo Kraus, Teresa Berganza, Plácido Domingo, Joaquín Achúcarro or Mstislav Rostropovich, here changes register to share the stage with the Arab dancer, Nesma Sabat in a new concert by Bilbao Municipal Band. Date: 2 December. Venue: 12.00 noon Time: Euskalduna Concert Hall.
“Handel’s Messiah” participative concert
Our Lady of Begoña Basilica Christmas Concert Invitations from the Bilbao 700 Foundation. Limited capacity. Date: 14 December. Venue: Our Lady of Begoña Basilica Time: 8.00 p.m.
Date: 5 December. Venue: Euskalduna Concert Hall. Time: 20.00 p.m.
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BOS - Bilbao Symphony Orchestra Concert
Bilbao Symphony Orchestra Concert
With Mateusz Borowiak on the Date: 20 and 21 December: piano and conducted by Günter Venue: Euskalduna Concert Hall. Neuhold, the orchestra will per- Time: 8.00 p,m,. form the following works: W.A. Mozart, S. Rachmaninov and W.A. Mozart.
“Kantika de Leioa” Choir and Bilbao Municipal Date: 13 and 14 December: Txistularis Accordion Venue: Euskalduna Concert Hall. Band Time: 8.00 p.m.
Bilbao Municipal Band
Date: 20 December. Venue: Euskalduna Concert Hall.
Time: 8.00 p,m,. Conducted by Mark Whitlock. This renowned musician has Bilbao Sings at Christmas conducted some of the leading The San Antonio de Iralabarri bands of the United Nations on Choir performs this concert numerous occasions. as part of the “Bilbao Sings at Date: 16 December. Christmas” series. Venue: Euskalduna Concert Hall. Date: 21 December. Time: 12.00 noon.
Venue: Arteria Campos Eliseos Theatre
Bilbao Municipal Band’s Christmas Concert
Time: 8.00 p,m,.
Date: 19 December. Venue: Arteria Campos Eliseos Theatre Time: 7.00 p,m,.
Christmas Choral Concerts At Christmas, many churches in Bilbao host traditional choral concerts:
Church of San Antón (Casco Viejo) at 7.30 p.m. on 14 December 28
Church of La Encarnación (Atxuri) at 8.15 p.m. on 14 December El Carmelo Church (Santutxu) at 8.30 p.m. on 15 December Church of Our Lady of El Rosario (Rekalde) at 8.30 p.m. on 20 December Quinta Parroquia parish church (Abando) at 7.30 p.m. on 21 December Church of La Inmaculada (Basurto) at 7.30 p.m. on 22 December San Pedro Church (Deusto) at 8.00 p.m. on 27 December Residencia Padres Jesuitas Church (Abando) at 7.30 p.m. on 28 December El Salvador Church (Castaños) at 8.00 p.m. on 29 December
OPERA AND ZARZUELA OPERETTA Król Roger by K. Szymanowski
“Cuartito Lírico”: Programme of French music Date: 17 December. Venue: Arriaga Theatre Foyer Time: 8.00 p,m,.
International Opera Gala This performance features three leading soloists from the best and most renowned theatres in the world, New York’s Metropolitan, Venice’s Fenice Theatre, Milan’s Scala and Verona’s Arena, accompanied by the pianist Itziar Barredo.
Date: 22 December. Venue: Arteria Campos Eliseos Theatre Time: 8.30 p,m,.
XII Tribute to Alfredo Kraus Charity Concert Orfeón Donostiarra and Orfeón Txiki, the soprano Itziar Martínez Galdós and the Bilbao Symphony Orchestra will perform at the tribute to the great tenor Alfredo Kraus.
Date: 30 December. Venue: Euskalduna Concert Hall. Time: 7.00 p,m,.
A Christmas Carol -Abao Txiki
Date: 3 December. Venue: Euskalduna Concert Hall. Time: 8.00 p,m,.
“La Tabernera del Puerto” Zarzuela Date: 14 and 15 December: Venue: Arteria Campos Eliseos Theatre Time: 7.30 p,m,.
This opera is suitable for children 4 years and older. Based on Dickens’s popular story, it tells the story of the miserly Mr. Scrooge who becomes a kind and generous man one cold Christmas.
Date: 3 to 5 January. Venue: Arriaga Theatre Time: At 12.00 noon and on 7.00 p.m. on 3 and 4 January 12.00 noon on 5 January
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DANCE The Invisible Woman Date: 2 December. Venue: La Fundición Time: 7.00 p,m,.
Swan Lake
Swan Lake The Crown of Russian Ballet of Moscow performs this unique work and captures the essence and the beauty of the story and the harmony of Tchaikovsky’s music.
Date: 22 December. Venue: Euskalduna Concert Hall. Time: 8.00 p,m.
“Swan Lake” is considered to be the most spectacular classical The Nut-Cracker ballet with a plot brimming with This moving fairytale ballet crearomance and beauty. ted by Tchaikovsky has becoDate: 4 December. me a classic and a real must at Venue: Arteria Campos Eliseos Christmas. Theatre Date: 25 December.
Time: 8.00 p,m,.
The Nut-Cracker A Christmas classic. This work by Tchaikovsky sweeps us away to a kingdom of fantasy and imagination.
Date: 5 and 6 December: Venue: Arteria Campos Eliseos Theatre Time: 8.00 p.m. on 5 December 7.00 p.m. on 6 December
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Venue: Euskalduna Concert Hall. Time: 8.00 p,m.
Mayumana: Racconto Unique show, brimming with rhythm, movement, poetry, technology and humour that combines the best that the group has created over the years.
Date: 22 to 30 December. Venue: Arriaga Theatre Time: 6.00 p.m. and 9.00 p.m. on 22, 26, 28 and 29 December 5.00 and 8.00 p.m. on 22 and 30 December 8.00 p.m. on 27 December
BASQUE DANCES AND BERTSOLARIS STORY TELLING Argia and Juan Antonio Urbeltz: “Besta Berri”
THEATRES, MUSICALES AND CIRCUS The Beauty and the Beast Impressive scenery, dazzling costumes and real-life fairytale characters make this a unique show, brimming with imagination, fantasy and emotion, which immersed the audience into the most romantic and magical story ever told.
Date: 7 to 19 December: Venue: Arriaga Theatre. Time: 5.00 p.m. and 9.00 p.m. on 7, 8, 14 and 15 December 4.00 and 8.00 p.m. on 9 and 16 December 8.00 p.m. on 11, 12, 13, 18 and 19 December
This performance showcases the Besta berri traditional dances, the Lapurdi and Baja-Nabarra processions; the Aurresku of Jorge Oteiza’s Apostles and a Christians and Turks Pastoral inspired by Souletin popular theatre.
Date: 2 December. Venue: Arriaga Theatre. Time: 7.00 p,m.
Bertsolaris Story Telling Bizkaia Championship Live performance of one of the oldest traditions of Basque culture.
Date: 15 December. Venue: Bilbao Arena Time: 5.30 p,m.
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Little Red Riding Hood, the Musical Tale of the Red Cape The discovery of a red cape is here the simple plot that is the starting point for this new version of the popular children’s story, Little Red Riding Hood.
Date: 8 and 9 December: Venue: Arteria Campos Eliseos Theatre Opening hours: 5.00 p.m. and 7.30 p.m. on 8 December 5.00 p.m. on 9 December
“San Lorenzo Mártir” Date: 15 and 16 December: Venue: La Fundición. Time: 8.00 p.m. on 15 December 7.00 p.m. on 16 December www.lafundicion.org
Unfinished Business at Christmas A group of neighbours, who have been friends as long as they remember, arrange to play a game among themselves. They will have to write three wishes that they want to come true during this festive season and they will read them at New Year. A perfect comedy for this time of year.
Date: 23 and 26 December: Venue: Arteria Campos Eliseos Theatre Time: 6.00 p.m. on 23 December 8.30 p.m. on 26 December
The Guardian of the Tales Fantasy story where a librarian is taken through our favourite tales in the search for a mysterious fairy.
Date: 9 December. Venue: Arteria Campos Eliseos Theatre Time: 12.30 p.m. and 5.30 p.m.
Big Sister Three nuns, a convent and a single winner. A real reality show when three nuns will do everything possible to win the contest and to be the best nun in the convent.
Date: 26 December. Venue: Arteria Campos Eliseos Theatre
Mag Lari, Laughter and Magic What can be better than making people laugh and perform magic at the same time? This performance, which will appeal to young and old alike, will surprise and make you laugh as you watch Mag Lari, the best known illusionist in our country.
Date: 27 December. Venue: Arteria Campos Eliseos Theatre Time: 5.00 p.m. and 8.00 p.m.
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Sensormen
Peter Pan On Ice
Comedy, music, percussion and a dazzling staging of event are what this show offers. It combines Yllana’s gestual humour with the technological and rhythmical performances of Bulbul, the percussionist and multimedia performer.
A cast of twenty top-class artists, with genuine European and World skating championships, singers, acrobats and actors, bring to life the adventure of the boy that refused to grow up. Date: 28, 29 and 30 December Venue: Bilbao Arena Time: 5.00 and 7.30 p.m. on 28 December 5.00 and 7.30 p.m. on 29 December
Date: 28 to 30 December. Venue: Arteria Campos Eliseos Theatre Time: 8.00 p.m. on 28 and 29 December 7.00 p.m. on 30 December
6.00 p.m. on 30 December
The First Dog in the World A sung fable that will delight everyone who believes that animals can be loved and steal our hearts.
Date: 2 and 3 January Venue: Arteria Campos Eliseos Theatre Time: 5.00 p,m.
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The Dog in the Manager This comedy by Lope de Vega is one of the best known and acclaimed plays from the Spanish Age of Enlightenment.
Date: 2 and 3 January Venue: Arteria Campos Eliseos Theatre Time: 8.00 p,m.
“Cantajuego, Cosquillas”
PUPPETS My Uncle the Detective is Searching for the Mummy Pedro Holmes and his nephew Carlitos Watson set off to look for the Lost Mummy. It is a marvellous mystery story for children over 3. The Enigma of the Lost Mummy!
Date: 2 December. “Cosquillas” narrates the dream of the Adventurous Flea to make Venue: Arteria Campos Eliseos everyone laugh and spread Theatre happiness. Time: 1.30 p.m. and 5.30 p.m. Date: 4 January Venue: Euskalduna Concert Hall. Time: at 4.30 p.m. and 7.00 p.m.
Shadows of the World
Unique opportunity to travel through the age-old eastern art Eoloh! of the shadow theatre, which EOLOH! is a circus beyond the combines the world of reality conventional one. Trapeze cho- and fantasy, light and shadow. reography, special effects with Date: 16 December. snow, water, fire, the wind of Venue: Arteria Campos Eliseos EOLOH! and a large video screening. The 20 members of the Theatre company come from leading Time: 12.30 p.m. and 5.30 p.m. circuses such as the Cirque du Soleil or Afrika.
Date: 6 January Venue: Euskalduna Concert Hall. Time: at 5.00 p.m. and 8.00 p.m.
Blue Bird
Anita Maravillas takes you on a thrilling adventure without dialogues starring two amazing realsize wooden puppets.
Date: Sunday 23 December Venue: Guggenheim Museum Auditorium Time: 12.30 p.m.
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SPORTS Football. Athletic Club 6 December Athletic Club – Sparta Praga (9:05 p.m.) 9 December Athletic Club – Celta
19 December Bizkaia Bilbao Basket – UCAM Murcia Time: 8.15 p,m. 23 December. Bizkaia Bilbao Basket – BlusensMonbus Time: 12.15 p,m.
Venue: Bilbao Arena (Miribilla Sports Centre ) 22 December More information about the Athletic Club - Zaragoza matches at: Venue: San Mamés. More infor- www.bilbaobasket.biz mation on the matches or changes to the calendar at: www.athletic-club.net
Basketball. Bizkaia Bilbao Basket 2 December Bizkaia Bilbao Basket – Assignia Manresa Time: 12.15 p,m. 9 December Bizkaia Bilbao Basket – Cajasol Time: 12.15 p,m. 12 December Bizkaia Bilbao Basket – Belgacom Spirou (Eurocup) Time: 8.15 p,m.
OTHER SPORTS EVENTS
2 December III Bilbao Mountain Hike 9 December XVIII Run for Health 30 December XVIII Las Arenas to Bilbao Race
Further information: www.eventosbhm.com
***All the activities in this leaflet may be subject to change ***
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FESTIVE PARTIES AND BILBAO NIGHTLIFE
Bilbao’s sky turns dark blue, the sinuous shadows of the Guggenheim being to grow and a new pace begins to be felt in the city. Night falls and Bilbao is the ideal place to linger over a drink, enjoy a coffee, pintxos (tapas) and txikitos (glasses of wine), and so on. Enjoy the conservation, the culinary heritage, live music, dancing, you will find so much to choose from in the different atmospheres and areas in the city. Try our famous Gin Tonics. Their preparation is a real art and a show for the people watching. And try one of the more innovative and sophisticated combinations. Enjoy the aromas of bergamot, lime, liquorice...just have fun and enjoy this gift for the senses. And at Christmas, do not miss out on the parties that the top hotels, restaurants, bars and discos organise to make sure you really have a Merry Bilbao! Links of interest: www.gintonicbilbao.com Gayfriendly www.revistablue.com
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The Transporter Bridge, the Beaches and the Cliffs by Metro. The Metro will whisk
BIZKAIA
Bilbao is the capital of Bizkaia, a territory with modern and innovative amenities, with their own character, designed to meet the needs of any type of visitors.
you from the centre of Bilbao to the beaches where you can relax or surf at Getxo or Soplena, cliff tops to walk along... and you can also take it to the Transporter Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (20 min.).
The Urkiola and Gorbeia Natural Parks. The limes-
Urdaibai and Gernika. The Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve is a unique place where man has managed to respect the balance with an exceptional landscape of sea, beach and mountains. Gernika is the symbolic city the Basques, the cradle of their historical freedoms and rights and victim, 75 years ago, of the air-raid that Picasso immortalized to denounce human brutality. (40 min.).
tone landscape of the Urkiola Natural Park is covered with beech and oak forests between rugged landscapes. And within close reach, you can enjoy the cultural heritage in the old towns of Durango and Elorrio brimming with history. Gorbeia is the mountainous giant of Bizkaia and a popular destination for hiking and mountaineering. (40 min.).
Enkarterriak. Las Encartaciones Markina, Lekeitio and or Encartaciones in the west of Ondarroa. Lea-Artibai is the Bizkaia is a zone that combines most eastern region of Bizkaia and the coast is dotted with fishing villages of great beauty such as Lekeitio and Ondarroa. Markina is a stunning town that is the birthplace of cesta-punta, a variety of Basque pelota. (45 min.).
wild nature with villages of great beauty such as Balmaseda. (30 min). The Karrantza Valley is home to geological treasures such as the Pozalagua Caves or places for an entertaining family trip such as the El KarpĂn animal recovery centre. 37
CHRISTMAS CAROLS OLENTZERO Olentzero joan zaigu mendira lanera intentzioarekin ikatz egitera. Aditu duenian Jesus jaio dela lasterka etorri da berri ona ematera. Horra! Horra! Gure Olentzero! Pipa hortzetan duela eserita dago kapoiak ere baditu
arraultzatxuakin bihar meriendatzeko botila ardoakin. Inolaz ezin dugu Olentzero ase bakarrik jan dizkigu hamar txerri gazte. Saiheski ta solomo makina bat este Jesus jaio da eta alaitu zaitezte. Horra! Horra!...
HORRA MARI DOMINGI
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Horra Mari Domingi begira horri gurekin nahi duela Belena etorri.
Hatoz, goazen, adora dezagun Belenen jaio den haur eder hori haur eder hori
Gurekin nahi baduzu Belena etorri atera beharko duzu gona zahar hori.
Irrintzi eta poza algara beti hori behar di単agu guk elkarrekin.
Hatoz! Hatoz! zure bila nenbilen ni. Hatoz! Hatoz! zure bila nenbilen ni.
Pozez adora dezagun Jesus haur hori berak eman dezagun gaur zorionik.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: Bizkaia Provincial Council, Euskal Museoa, Kutxabank Mendi Film Festival, Aitor Elizegi and all the cultural institutions, associations and organisations that helped with this tourist guide.
tel: 94 479 57 60 www.bilbao.net/bilbaoturismo