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The journey continues. New Bilbao Bizkaia Tourist Office
MERRY BILBAO Enjoy our way of celebrating Christmas
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PU 14 2012
contents Introduction 2 Useful Information 4 Musts 5 Exhibitions 9 Traditions 11 Bilbao by Land, Sea and Air 14 Bilbao Mendi Film Festival 16 Cultural Agenda 18 • Markets and Fairs
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• Exhibitions
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• Concerts
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• Jazz
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• Classical Music
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• Opera and Zarzuela Operetta 26 • Dance
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• Basque Dances and Bertsolaris Story Telling
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• Theatre, Musicals and Circus
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• Puppets
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• Sports
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Festive Parties and Bibao Nightlife
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Bizkaia
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Christmas Carols
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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 txikito, 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 Edificio Terminus Office Plaza Circular, 1 Monday to Sunday: 09:00 to 21:00 24 and 31 December, between 09:00 and 17:00 25 December and 1 January: 10:00 to 14:00 Guggenheim Office (Next to the museum) Monday to Saturday: 10:00 to 19:00 Sundays: 10:00 to 15:00 CLOSED 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.
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.
Bilbao Bizkaia Be Friendly Bilbao is a modern city, brimming with possibilities and renowned as a friendly location throughout Europe, where visitors will find a select choice of bars, restaurants and fashion boutiques, along with a wide range of other establishment where a warm and welcoming atmosphere pervades. www.bilbaobizkaiafriendly.com
Telephone Numbers of Interest
The Bilbao Card is available for 1, 2 or 3 days.
Ertzaintza (Basque National Police(. SOS-Deiak: 112
It is available from the Bilbao Turismo offices or from the website:
Local Police: 092
www.bilbao.net/bilbaoturismo
Bilbao International Airport: 902 404 704
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
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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 is illuminated and takes on a sparkling, glittering, magical appearance and the Christmas spirit is ever present. The streets of the city will be adorned with more than 500,000 latest-generation LED lights and 18 Christmas trees, between 8 and 18 metres tall. Don’t miss the opportunity of walking through the streets of the city bathed in the light of Christmas (100% low-energy lighting, of course).
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. Christmas in Bilbao also includes another important Christmas street market: the Mercadillo Navideño on Bailén Street. 7
Mercadillo de Navidad
Nativity Scenes in Bilbao
This street market is formed by more than 40 booths that sell products related to this time of year: Christmas decorations, small crafts, gifts, accessories and so forth.
Nativity Scenes have long been a tradition in Bilbao. This Christmas, their assortment, size and detail can be admired in different parts of the City:
Date: From 8 December to 6 January Venue: Bailén Street
• Narthex of the Church of San Nicolás de Bari. Audiovisual Nativity Scenes. 8 dioramas with special effects, including lighting, water features and smoke.
Time: 9:00 am to 11:00 pm Except for 23th December and 5th january: 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
The Delight of Christmas Shopping During the Christmas season, “going shopping” in Bilbao proves particularly attractive. The shop windows are decorated with great care and attention to detail and the main shopping areas provide the venues for some typical seasonal cheer in the form of performances by choirs of great renown within the Basque Country and groups playing traditional Basque instruments. Bilbao’s more than 7000 business establishments prepare exclusive promotions for the Christmas period, with particular focus on those who wish to leave Biscay’s capital with a beautiful keepsake or a gift displaying the finest taste. Moreover, the trade associations within the city organise a large number of activities to promote and share in the Christmas spirit. Further information: www.bilbaodendak.net
Closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Date: up until 6 January Opening hours: 10:00 to 14:00 and 17:00 to 21:00 • Cloister of the Cathedral of Santiago. 40 large-scale models from the Ist City of Bilbao National Diorama Competition. Date: up until 6 January Closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Opening hours: 10:00 to 14:00 and 17:00 to 21:00 • Diocesan Museum of Religious Art: The “Nativity Scenes of the World” exhibition is on display in the cloister of the museum. Closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Date: until 6 January Opening hours: 10:30 to 13:30 and 16:00 to 19:00. • Museum of Holy Week Processions: Exhibition of Large-Scale Nativity Scenes. 10 magnificent dioramas measuring 3 x 2.5 metres depicting scenes in Naples, Santurtzi and Africa. The latter features moving animals. Date: up until 6 January Closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Opening hours: 11:30 to 13:30 and 17:00 to 20:30.
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CHRISTMAS PARADES
OLENTZERO AND THE 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.
Olentzero 23 December. Olentzero comes to Bilbao.
The Olentzero, the mythical figure who brings presents to Basque homes, arrives in the capital of Bizkaia mounted on a huge Pottoka horse (an indigenous Basque This year more than ever, these events are breed). He is accompanied by his retinue: his wife, Mari Domingi and Basajaun (a real musts not to be missed. mythical Basque figure), riding a large goose and a huge tricycle, respectively, and Lamia (a form of Basque nereid), along with the galtzagorris (a form of Basque pixie attired in red trousers). The Olentzero will magically appear on the Gran Vía at 19:00 and will lead a procession to the Arriaga Theatre, where he will spend 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 morning 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.
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The Three King’s Parade 5 January 6.00 p.m. The parade sets off from the junction where Gran Vía meets María Díaz de Haro. Melchior, Gaspar and Balthazar sweep into Bilbao in a spectacular parade bursting with light, sound and colour. This year, Their Majesties will make their way along the Gran Via to the Town Hall. 8.15 p.m. Meeting the children in the Arab Room: The youngest members of the family can visit the Arab Room to deliver their letters with their wishes and dreams.
Ice Rink
PIN - Kids’ Christmas Park
This year, the La Casilla Pavilion has been turned into a ice palace where you can have fun skating.
Children are sure to have a fun time when Date: 6 December to 13 January. they visit the Kids’ Christmas Park, which Venue: La Casilla Pavilion. has become a real tradition on the Christmas calendar, in the Bilbao Exhibition www.bilbaokirolak.com Centre pavilions, which will be home to a 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: 21 December to 5January.
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EXHIBITIONS
Darío de Regoyos (1857-1913). The impressionist Adventure Up until 26 January
Fine Arts Museum
Darío de Regoyos (Ribadesella 1857) is the leading figure in Spanish Impressionist painting. On the 100th anniversary of his Up until 16 February death, the Museum is organising a major Cubism is one of the central movements in retrospective of his work, including almost 20th century avant-garde art. Built around 140 paintings. a core of 11 paintings by Juan Gris, the Indecipherable Sardinia. exhibition includes 39 works produced The sign engraved between 1912 and 1933 by some of the Up until 12 January greatest exponents of the movement. Telefónica Cubist Collection
As part of the second International Festival of Printmaking, this exhibition presents a selection of graphic works by Sardinian artists from the first half of the 20th century, shown in dialogue with contemporary artists who represent innovation in the art of Sardinian printmaking.
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Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. “Antoni Tàpies. From Object To Sculpture (1964-2009) Up until 19 January One year after the artist’s death, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao presents Antoni Tàpies. From Object to Sculpture (1964– 2009), the first comprehensive, in-depth look at one of the most fascinating aspects of this key artist of the second half of the 20th century: his sculptural work produced over five decades.
photography, over the course of the last forty years. The exhibition entails almost 180 images, which represent landmarks within the artist’s professional career.
Joaquín Achúcarro Concert Inaugural concert of the Joaquín Achúcharro season (Bilbao, 1932), given by the great, illustrious master from Bilbao, to whom the Campos Theatre pays tribute by programming four recitals. Date: 20 December Venue: Campos Elíseos Theatre Time: 20:00
Sweet Christmas at the Convent This Christmas the museums known as the Museo Diocesano de Arte Sacro and Museo de Pasos offer a selection of delicate products, mainly pastries and sweets, from 17 convents. This is a splendid opportunity to taste nougat, polvorones (a light, crumbly shortbread), chocolates, marzipan and other delicacies. Dates: From 5 to 22 December Venue: Museo Diocesano de Arte Sacro Time: Tuesday to Saturday from 10:30 to 13:30 and from 16:00 to 19:00 h. / Monday, Sunday and bank holidays, from 10:30 to 13:30.
Alhóndiga Bilbao Guerrilla Girls 1985 – 2013 Up until 6 January AlhóndigaBilbao presents the first important retrospective of the work of the Guerrilla Girls, a North American feminist art collective who use their posters and activism to become the ‘conscience of the art world’. Their internationally-renowned work condemns the subordinate position of women in both the art world and other fields of activity.
Sala Rekalde Emmet Gowin Up until 26 January This is one of the most comprehensive retrospectives, to date, of the North American Emmet Gowin (Danville, Virginia, 1941), one of the most original and influential forces within contemporary 12
Venue: Museo de Pasos de Semana Santa Time: Monday to Friday from 11:00 to 13:30 and from 17:00 to 20:30 / Saturday, Sunday and bank holidays, from 11:00 to 14:00 and 17:00 to 20:30.
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. Date: 5 to 8 December 2013 Venue: Landako Gunea (Durango)
TRADITIONS 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 During 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 properties. During the dinner, they sing carols and songs such as “Ator, ator”, “Horra Mari Domingi”, “Mesias sarritan” and then the family plays cards. 13
New Year’s Eve Singing
Typical dishes and sweets at As regards the celebrations on 31 Decem- Christmas ber and 1 January, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, an ancient song is sung during the dinner to mark the passing from one year to another. New new year The one that has to the one with nothing I have nothing and for me Pig’s ear Urte barri barri dekonak ez dekonari Nik ez dekot eta niri Ezpabere txarri belarri
In the past, the majority of the food eaten at Christmas came from the local farmsteads, and included pork, cured beef, eggs, poultry, nuts, honey, freshly-baked bread and vegetables, particularly, cabbage, etc. People also always bought special treats to celebrate these dates, fundamentally, fish and sweets, food that did not come from the farms. Some typical dishes were cabbage 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 (nougat), polvorones On 1 January, it is usual to have hot cho- (almond cookies) and marizpan feature colate for breakfast. Another tradition da- among the desserts. Today’s menus featuting back many years is to climb up Mount re tasty dishes such as: Gorbea on the morning of New Year’s Day, which attracts thousands of people in • Fresh Chorizo dishes with snails or salt cod Bizkaia.
Up Mount Gorbea
• Green sauce for any of the cuts of hake, from the Kokotxa or cheeks to the tail.
“Turrón de Soconusco” nougat Particularly chocolate, white praline, toasted praline, truffle and coated with chocolate. These are the basic ingredients traditionally used to prepare “Turrón de Sokonusko” nougat. The origin of this nougat is a mix of history and legend. The story goes that at the beginning of the 17th century, a man from Bizkaia called Iñigo Urruti set off to the New World to make his fortune and to search for the mythical “El Dorado”, but he found something much sweeter on his journey, the cocoa tree. The wise Urrutia saw a good business opportunity and after travelling through different provinces, he reached Santa Ana de Soconusco, on the border between Mexico and Guatemala, where he came across the native cocoa of that zone that he brought back to the bakery that his family ran in Bilbao. 14
• Treats from the vegetable garden: Cauli- This market was first held in the 19th flowers and sprouts with garnishes from the century. At that time, the tenants from the St. Martin pig slaughter. Bizkaia farmsteads used to come to Bilbao on 21st December to pay the owners of • Seafood always boiled in seawater. the farms, most of whom lived in the city, • Christmas soup, seafood consommés and the rent for the year. Apart from money, the baserritarras or farmers brought along the farm stocks. best products from the land they worked: • St. Thomas capon with bitter rocket salad. vegetables, cheese, fruit, txakoli wine, cider, talo flatbread, homemade bread, honey, animals, plants and flowers. St. Thomas’s 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.
La Ribera Market 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 15
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.
Guided Walking Tours
Visit to the City Hall and the Ibaigane Palace 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 and Ensanche-Abandoibarra at 12:00 From 6 to 8 December, every day: Casco Viejo at 10:00 and EnsancheAbandoibarra at 12:00 26 December and 2 January: EnsancheAbandoibarra at 12:00 27 December and 3 January: Casco Viejo at 10:00 6 January: closed. For further general information and information on prices telephone 94 479 57 60 16
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 Circular Square. For further information and prices, call 94 479 57 60
Guided Tours of Euskalduna Conference Centre and Concert A comfortable way to see the city from a di- Hall Tourist Bus
fferent perspective. Bilbao Tourist Tour Bus offers you a comprehensive and privileged Free guided tours for the general public Day of tour: Saturdays view of the capital of Bizkaia. Time: 12:00 The tourist bus runs until 31 December at Visitors per group: a maximum of 30 the following times: Ticket collection site: The guide in the Con6 and 7 December: 11.00 a.m. – 12.00 ference Centre. noon – 1.00 p.m. – 3.00 p.m. and 4.00 (*) Where there are more than 30 people p.m. per group, an additional tour will be orgaRest of the month: 11.00 a.m. – 12.00 nised at 13:00. The route of the tour is denoon and 1.00 p.m. pendent upon the number of visitors within No service on Tuesdays. (except for 24 the Conference Hall at any given time. The and 31 December, when there is service) tour may be cancelled where it conflicts Departure: Alameda Mazarredo (Opposite with the activities of the Conference Hall. No. 67) www.busturistikoa.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.
Guided Dramatised Tours of the Arriaga Theatre 6, 8, 15 and 29 December at 11:00 and 12:30.
Music, songs, dancing and surreal dialogue accompany five characters who tell their stories and the story of the theatre in their own words. A calculating box-office clerk, a sardine with an allergy to humidity, a fledgling pelota player, an “enterprising” Departures every 15 minutes from 7.15 fishmonger and the vase from the first floor, a.m. to 10.00 p.m. which has dried out, the poor thing, participate in the tour, providing the magic of the Service on Sundays and Public Holidays theatre... Can you think of a better way of from: 8.15 a.m. spending a Sunday morning? 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 4.30 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: departures at 7 pm too. Saturdays and Sundays: Off to Sea (2 hour trip) Departure time: 10.30 p.m. 24 and 31 December: 1:00 p.m. No service on 25 December,1 and 6 Jan. www.bilboats.com 17
BILBAO MENDI FILM FESTIVAL BILBAO THE BEST FILMS FOCUSING ON MOUNTAINS AND ADVENTURE CONVERGE IN BILBAO From 13 to 22 December The provincial capital once again provides the venue for the best cinema focusing on mountains and adventure with the celebration of the sixth edition of the BILBAO MENDI FILM FESTIVAL, a competition that, in the space of a few years, has consolidated its position as one of the best of its kind at international level. In addition to the 40 films selected to compete, the festival brings a wide range of internationally renowned figures to Bilbao (directors and sportsmen and women who will present their experiences in the own words) and numerous parallel activities have been organised. 18
The event provides a unique opportunity to watch a selection of the best documentaries focusing on mountains and open-air adventure sports (surfing, skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, base jumping, trail running, canoeing, speleology, etc.). Amongst the parallel activities, on this occasion attention should be drawn to the spectacular international slackline competition (a balancing act), a waterline exhibition and a leisure area focusing on various activities for the entire family, beneath the Euskalduna Bridge on the first weekend of the festival.
Pagasarri HISTORICAL DOCUMENTARY WITH LIVE MUSIC On 18 December, the Euskalduna Conference Centre and Concert Hall provides the venue for the screening of a restored Italian documentary dating from the 1930s, accompanied by live music, recalling the era of silent films. “Terre magellaniche” was filmed in Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego by a Salesian missionary, who was also an explorer, mountaineer, photographer and film-maker. His film provides exceptional testimony of the day-to-day lives of indigenous peoples.
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.
Further Information: www.mendifilmfestival.com
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CULTURAL AGENDA MARKETS AND 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.
FAIRS
V Bilbao Nativity Scene Markers’ Fair 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 15 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.
XXVIII 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 15 December: Venue: Bilbao Exhibition Centre Opening hours: 10.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m.
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ExHIBITIONS
ready to colour in works of art, trace out geometrical figures and let your imagination run wild. If you successfully complete A real must among the wide variety of cul- the game you will receive a small Christtural activities available in Bilbao is to visit mas present! the major exhibitions being hosted by the Date: 17 December to 5 January city’s museums and exhibition centres. Location: The galleries of the Museum Opening Hours: 10:00 to 19:45 Bilbao Fine Arts Museum Ages: from 5 to 10 years old 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 current offer is rounded off with a number of temporary exhibitions: “Undecipherable Sardinia. The Nature of Engravings”, the “Telefónica Cubist Collection” and “Darío de Regoyos (1857-1913. The Impressionist Adventure” focusing on Spain’s main representative of impressionist painting.
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao www.guggenheim-bilbao.es he 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 collection is currently accompanied by the temporary exhibitions “Antoni Tàpies. From the Object to the Sculpture 19642009” and “Garmendia, Maneros Zabala, Salaberria. Process and Method”.
Make your own Christmas decorations! Let the older people get on with visiting the Museum and come over to Art Corner. Get to work and make decorations for this Christmas. They will look great hanging on the tree. Date: 21, 22, 26, 27, 28 and 29 December. 2, 3, 4 and 5 January Location: Art Corner Opening Hours: 11:00 to 17:00 Ages: from 2 to 8 years old Kubik Short stories told through colours, forms and volumes within a game entailing construction, projections and sound. Enter KUBIK, as small world of sensations created by the Teatro Paraíso Company and the Belgian Theatre de la Guimbarde. Date: 26 December 2013 Location: Auditorium of the Museum Opening Hours: 12:30, 17:00, 18:30. Ages: from 3 to 5 years old Stone by stone The stones along the way and the pebbles on the beach take on a life of their own. Via this work, Le home dibuixat teaches us that the most mundane items hide a secret world of stories. Come and discover them:
At Christmas too…
Date: 28 December 2013 Location: Auditorium Opening Hours: 17:00 (in Basque), 18:30 Pay attention and follow the clues! The (in Spanish). smallest detail might prove important The Ages: from 4 to 7 years old game is available at the ticket office: get Treasure Hunt
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Alhóndigabilbao 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 courtyard and enjoy the excellent programme of activities. Gabonak Arte
Date: Until 6 January. Venue: Museum cloisters Time: Tuesday to Saturday: 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 24, 25 December and 1 January: CLOSED And it is running children’s workshops for 5-9 year olds at Christmas. 10.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. on 26 to 30 December and 2 to 4 January Further information: 94 432 01 25 museo@eleizmuseoa.com
Activities for children between 5 and 12 Archaeological Museum which focus on the different arts (science, technology, architecture, dance, music, www.bizkaia.net/arkeologimuseoa films, etc.). The permanent exhibition takes the visitors Dates: 26, 27 and 28 December 2013, and through the history of Bizkaia by means 2, 3 and 4 January 2014. of the materials unearthed archaeological Opening hours: 11.00 a.m. to 2.30 p.m. digs. The “Euskal Herria in the 5th to 8th and 5.00 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. centuries” exhibition will run until April 2013.
Diocesan Museum
www.eleizmuseoa.com The Diocesan Museum is hosting the VIII Reproductions Museum “Nativity Scenes from Around the World” www.museoreproduccionesbilbao.org exhibition. The museum boasts copies of the most important sculptures throughout human
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history. In addition to the permanent collection, over the Christmas Period the exhibition “The Renaissance Route. Sculpture in Florence.” can be visited, which transports us back to one of the most productive eras of European artistic expression: the Renaissance in Florence.
Basque Museum www.euskal-museoa.org Housed within a Baroque building in the Casco Viejo [old quarter] of Bilbao , the exhibitions of this museum aim to depict the historical and cultural evolution of Basque society. Up until 16 March 2014, visitors will be able to contemplate the “Gallery of Famous Figures from Biscay. Sports Personalities, Artists, Writers” which entails 239 portraits of celebrated figures from Bilbao from the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries.
Maritime Museum www.museomaritimobilbao.org The Atlantic Cod. The Power of the Senses The exhibition allows to become better acquainted with one of the cornerstones of Basque gastronomy: the Atlantic cod. The dish known as pil-pil will submerge visitors in the fascinating universe of the cod, via experience, emotion, the five senses and the unexpected. This will allow us to gain a greater understanding of the past, present and future of this culinary culture that affords more insight into Basque society and lifestyle. Christmas workshops for children have been organised focusing on the sea, whales, boat construction, etc. Don’t miss this opportunity! Date: 23, 26, 27, 30 December and 3, 4 January Opening Hours: 09:30 to 13:30 Price per day: 10 euros
Euskalduna Conference Centre and Concert Hall “The Toys of Yesteryear” Exhibition A thematic exhibition focusing on a number of the toys that have accompanied children, and sometimes their elders, in recent decades (Playmobil, Meccano, Lego, Barbie, Marklin…) Date: From 16 December 2013 to 09 January 2014 Location: Euskalduna Conference Centre and Concert Hall, Barria Hall. Price: €5 23
CONCERTS
Oskorri folk band: The Pub Ibiltaria
Date: 21 December 2013 Mamba Beat vs. Depeche Mode y electro Location: SALA BBK Mamba Beat vs. Depeche Mode and 80’s Time: 20:00 electro pop. The Basque band presents its Concert. Golden Christmases repertoire and versions of influences. Date: 28 December 2013 Date: 14 December Location: SALA BBK Venue: Cúpula Concert Hall, Campos Elí- Time: 20:00 seos Theatre Time: 20:00
JAZZ
The Magic Teapot vs. California Acid Rock. The Basque band presents its reperGinger Baker’s Jazz Confussion toire and versions of its influences. Considered one of the first drummers to Date: 26 December become a star as an instrumentalist, he is Venue: Cúpula Room, Campos Elíseos also one of the first musicians to introduce Theatre the use of two bass drums. Time: 21:00 Date: 4 December Gala of the Bilbainadas Contest Venue: BBK Concert Hall Date: 22 December Horario: 20:00 Location: Arriaga Theatre Venue: La Bodega Concert Hall, basement Time: 11:30 of the Sociedad Bilbaina, entrance on José Mª Olabarri Street A Flamenco Christmas. La Zambomba de Jerez. BJU / Brooklyn Jazz Underground Ensemble Date: 13 December Location: Sala BBK Date: 5 December Time: 20:00 Venue: Bilbaina Jazz Club, entrance on José Mª Olabarri Street Time: 20:00 Joaquin Chacón & Mariano Diaz Quartet Date: 12 December Venue: Bilbaina Jazz Club, entrance on José Mª Olabarri Street Time: 20:00 24
BBK Jazz. Juan de Diego “Trakas”/ Jean Marie Ecay 4tet Date: 6 December Venue: BBK Concert Hall Time: 20:00-21:15 BBK Jazz. Kike Arza 5tet/ Javier Colina 4tet Date: 7 December Venue: BBK Concert Hall Time: 20:00-21:45 Flamenco Jazz Company: ‘Rumbo desconocido’ Date: 21 December Venue: Campos Theatre Time: 20:00 Por Alusiones Dúo/Jam Session/ Kathorno Date: 26 December Venue: Campos Theatre Time: 20:00h/20:30h/21:00
CLASSICAL MUSIC Händel’s Messiah Participatory concert given by the Bilbao Symphony Orchestra (BOS) Date: 4 December Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Schedule: 20:00 Ken Zazpi and the Basque Symphony Orchestra. A fresh opportunity to enjoy the merging of classical music with other notes. On this occasion, those of the renowned Basque pop-rock band Ken Zazpi. Date: 5 December Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Schedule: 20:00 Coral d’Avui (i Cor Euridice) Lleida. 30th Anniversary Coro Ars Viva [choral singing] Date: 06 December 2013 Location: Iglesia del colegio Jesuitas Indautxu [church] Time: 20:00 Kea Vocal Group The group sings works by Britten, Poulenc, Busto, Takemitsu, Azruza and Andreo. Date: 10 December Venue: Arriaga Theatre Time: 20:00 25
Bilbao Symphony Orchestra The programme includes W. A. Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 5 in A major, K 219 (30’) and G. Mahler’s Symphony No. 5 in C sharp minor (70’). Date: 12-13 December Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Time: 20:00 Coral san Antonio de Iralabarri and Coro Biotz-Alai. 30th Anniversary Coro Ars Viva [choral singing]
14 December at 20:00 in El Karmelo de Santutxu Church 20 December at 20:00 in the Church of San Ignacio 21 December at 20:00 in the Church of Ntra. Señora del Rosario en Errekalde 26 December at 20:00 in the Residencia Padres Jesuitas Church 27 December at 20:00 in the Quinta Parroquia [church] 28 December at 20:00 in the Church of San Pedro de Deusto
Bilbao Symphony Orchestra Christmas Date: 13 December Concert Location: Iglesia del colegio Jesuitas IndauDate: 19-20 December txu [church] Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Time: 20:00 Time: 20:00 Municipal Music Band and the Choral Sinfonity: Electric Guitar Concert Society Sinfonity is an electric guitar orchestra that plays classical music. From Bach to Holst and Vivaldi to Falla, the repertoire constitutes a pleasant, exciting experience for the Charity Gala to raise funds for the Bi- audience and provides a moving, different zkaia Food Bank. way of enjoying classical music. Performances by the San Antonio de Ira- Date: 19 December labarri Choir, Ugaoko Sarea Abesbatza, Venue: Arriaga Theatre Ugaoko Sarea Txiki, Zirzira Taldea, and the Time: 20:00 Golden Apple Quartet Begoña Basilica Christmas Concert. Date: 17 December Invitations at the Bilbao 700 Foundation. Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Date: 20 December Time: 19:30 Venue: Begoña Basilica Around the world in 4 voices Time: 20:00 The Bilbao Choir and Chamber Orchestra Christmas Concert by the Kantika de offers a world music concert: a tour of se- Leioa Choir and the Municipal Band of veral continents that brings us exotic music Bilabo Txistularis (pipe players). full of unique melodies. The choir, formed by girls and boys of ages Date: 17 December 10 to 17, have won important national and Venue: Campos Elíseos Theatre international awards. The choir’s daring Time: 20:00 programmes and exquisite mise en scene Coro Ars Viva and Escolanía Ntra. Seño- have made it a point of reference in the ra de Begoña. 30th Anniversary Coro Ars choral scene. Viva [choral singing] Date: 20 December Date: 15 December Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Time: 12:00
Date: 20 December Location: Iglesia del colegio Jesuitas Indautxu [church] Time: 12:00
Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Time: 20:00
Christmas Choir Concerts
Date: 22 December Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Time: 19:00
12 December at 20:00 in El Salvador de Castaños Parish Church 13 December at 20:00 in the Church of San Antón
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Gabonetako Soinuak. (The Sounds of Christmas)
San Antonio de Iralabarri Choir Date: 22 December Venue: Campos Elíseos Theatre Time: 20:00 Concerts for babies. From Christmas to New Year’s Concert for babies 0 to 3 years old. An emotional journey from classical Christmas melodies to the New Year in the Vienna of the Strauss brothers.
Concert by the Young Euskal Herria Orchestra They will play Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis, by Ralph Vaughan Williams, and the Serenace for String Orchestra, Op. 48, by Piotr Ilich Tchaikovski. Date: 3 January Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Time: 20:00
Date: 28 December Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Time: 12:00 and 18:00 Date: 29 December Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Time: 10:30 and 12:00 13th Concert Tribute to Alfredo Kraus A tribute to the great tenor Alfredo Kraus with the participation of the Donostiarra Choral Society, Bilbao Symphony Orchestra, soloists Carmen Solís (soprano), María Luisa Corbacho (mezzo), Andeka Gorrotxategi (tenor) Rubén Amoretti (bass) y Óliver Díaz (Musical Direction) to raise funds for WOP -Walk on Project. To close the Verdi Year and the bicentenary of his birth, they will perform one of his greatest works: the Requiem. Date: 30 December Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Time: 20:00
Grand New Year’s Concert Inspired by the traditional musical event that takes place each year in Vienna, the New Year Concert returns with a selection of the finest waltzes, polkas and marches by the Austrian composer Johann Strauss. Well known pieces such as The Napoleon March, The Flower Festival, Klipp-Klapp, The Emperor Waltz and Champagne will be performed. The most famous piece of all, the Blue Danube, will of course be included, as will the The Radetzky March, which, accompanied by the applause of the audience, will draw the performance to a close. Date: 1 January Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Time: 20:00
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OPERA AND ZARZUELA OPERETTA Abao Txiki: Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves. Adaptation of the traditional story of the Thousand and One Nights, for a children’s choir, soloists and 18 musicians. Date: 3-4 December Venue: Arriaga Theatre Time: 12:00 and 18:00 Date: 5 December Venue: Arriaga Theatre Time: 12:00
DANCE La Cena: Theatre Venue: La Fundición Date and Time: 6-7 December at 20:00 8 December at 19:00 Brittle Failure: Dance Venue: La Fundición Dates and Times: 14 December at 20:00 15 December at 19:00 8th Young Ballet Dancers Award Date: 7 December Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Time: 19:30 Swan Lake
Zarzuela: El Caserío
The Russian Classical Ballet performs this beautiful romantic ballet that has moved audiences for over a century. A truly romantic, poetic theme where good triumphs over evil.
Date: 12 December An immortal zarzuela by maestro Jesús Venue: Campos Elíseos Theatre Guridi that has become a symbol of Bas- Time: 20:00 que music. The Nutcracker Date: 14 December Russian Classical Ballet performs The NutVenue: Campos Elíseos Theatre cracker, a story that stimulates the imagiTime: 19:30 nation and transports us to the realm of Date: 15 December fantasy. A magnificent show to enjoy the Venue: Campos Elíseos Theatre very best of ballet. Time: 19:00 Date: 13 December Venue: Campos Elíseos Theatre Time: 20:00
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Swan Lake
Dantza Emanaldia
The Crown of Russian Ballet of Moscow performs this captivating story. A romantic setting, magnificent choreography and an unforgettable story of condemned love combine to make Swan Lake an authentically classical ballet acclaimed by audiences all over the world.
Performances by the interns of the Provincial Council of Bizkaia with the participation of ITZIAR MENDIZABAL and EDWARD WATSON, as gueset stars of the Royal Ballet of London.
Date: 14 December Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Time: 20:00
Date: 27 December Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Time: 20:00
Choir, Ballet and Orchestra of the Russian Army in Saint Petersburg More than 100 artists sail across the stage with their voices, ballet and music. This is an exciting, fast-paced performance that gradually builds up the rhythm until the audience is immersed in a colourful, energetic and incomparable world. Date: 23 December Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Time: 20:00 The Nutcracker The Saint Petersburg Jacobson Ballet captures all the beauty and drama of truly romantic ballet in a timeless classical that appeals to any generation. The Nutcracker is a Christmas classic, ideal for children and adults alike. Date: 25 December Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Time: 20:00
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BASQUE DANCES AND BERTSOLARIS STORY TELLING Herritmo
THEATRES, MUSICALES AND CIRCUS
The performance features the Oreka TX, Kukai and Kalakan companies, which integrate dance, music, song and rural sports. The movements of rural sports have been turned into choreographies and farm tools Hecube are used to create music. Actress Concha Velasco plays Hecuba, the Date: 11 December classic by Euripides known as a tragedy of Venue: Arriaga Theatre revenge. Time: 20:00 Venue: Arriaga Theatre Bertsolari Txapelketa Nagusia 2013 Dates and Times: 4-6 December at 20:00 The XVI Euskal Herria Bertsolaris Contest 7 December at 18:30 and 21:30 is the highlight of this Basque musical 8 December at 19:00 verse tradition, where the contestants show off their style and originality as they perform their improvised rhyming verses to a set meter. Date: 15 December Venue: Bilbao Exhibition Centre BEC! Time: 11:00h
Jamming A “unique and unrepeatable” performance based on improvisation and “letting the audience choose the story”. Venue: Campos Elíseos Theatre Dates and Times: 5 December at 20:30 27-28 December at 21:00 3-4 January at 21:00 #QueNoNosFrujanLaFiesta A monologue by David Guapo that is a safe bet in which comedy, music and improvisation combine to make a unique show for all ages.
DANTZA PLAZETAN 2013 PROGRAMME This is one of the most traditional cultural programmes in Bilbao. It aims to promote popular Basque folklore by holding local religious festivities known as romerías, dance displays and parades. Beti Jai Alai Date: 24 December Venue: Aita Donosti Square Time: 19:00 Salbatzaile Dantza Taldea Date: 28 December Venue: Santiago Square Time: 20:00 Ondalan Date: 31 December Venue: Luzarra Square (Deusto) Time: 11:30 30
Venue: Campos Elíseos Theatre Dates and Times: 6 December at 20:00 7 December at 20:00 and 22:30 I’ll be darned 14 December at 20:30 and 22:30 The show is presented by Joaquín Reyes, the new king of surreal humour and a cult figure among the latest generation of comics. An endless outflow of tumbling words, extravagances and incongruities that dazzle audiences everywhere. Date: 14 December Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Time: 20:30 and 22:30
The Soul of Melody: The magic of great musicals Above all, The Soul of Melody is a tribute to music and the great musicals of Broadway and the West End. A different approach to the themes of the great classics of the genre: Chicago, West Side Story, Cats, Evita, The Sound of Music, Cabaret, Fiddler on the Roof and The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Venue: Arriaga Theatre Dates and Times: 13-14 December at 20:00 15 December at 19:00 Loop
The Dictionary 20-21 December at 20:00 Actress Vicky Peña reviews the life of María Moliner, who wrote the most complete, useful, insightful and amusing dictionary of the Spanish language on her own, at home, and in her own handwriting. Date: 20-21 December Venue: Arriaga Theatre Time: 20:00 A Part of Mi A musical based on the life and music of the renowned singer, Camilo Sesto.
Date: 21 December A pair of comedians offers a refreshing Venue: Palacio Euskalduna repertoire of variety shows and sketches Time: 20:00 chosen by them and mixed with different Nights of Hidden Intentions styles within the same genre. A night full of comedy charged with fine Date: 18 December Galician irony, with Carlos Blanco and QuiVenue: Arriaga Theatre co Cadaval, two comedians of international Time: 20:00 renown. Teleskopika: Good Times Date: 21 December Date: 20 December Venue: Campos Elíseos Theatre Venue: Campos Elíseos Theatre Time: 22:30 Time: 20:30
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The Wizard of Oz
Children’s Theatre. Hansel and Gretel
An endearing play that overflows with happiness, fantasy, music and magic in equal parts, and that has been viewed by over 400 thousand spectators. Awarded with the 2012 Rojas Award to the Best Family Show.
Date: 29 and 30 December 2013 Location: SALA BBK Time: 17:00
Date: 23 December Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Time: 17:00 and 19:00
Missisipi Gospel Choir The great voices of Black music come again with a fresh proposal to make the audience vibrate with their combination of vitality and spirituality, spiced with the rhythms of funk and blues.
Let’s Have Fun!
Date: 2 January This is the new show by CantaJuego. New Venue: Palacio Euskalduna, Hall A-1 songs, new characters and a story full of Time: 20:00 fantasy, rhythm and a lot of fun for the enThe Chorus tire family. The Chorus, one of the best treble choirs in Date: 26 December Europe returns to the Palacio Euskalduna Venue: Palacio Euskalduna again. Their recital includes their timeless Time: 16:00 and 19:00 hits, like the ones in the film that brought Geronimo Stilton The Kingdom of them worldwide fame, as well as top hits Fantasy Musical from The Beatles. Thanks to the famous journalist mouse and editor of The Rodent’s Gazette, the audience will discover a fantastic kingdom where dreams, magic, music and imagination are the guiding thread in a fascinating story. Venue: Arriaga Theatre Dates and Times: 26 December at 19:00 27-28 December at 17:00 and 20:00 29 December at 18:00
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Date: 2 January Venue: Palacio Euskalduna Time: 20:00 Golulá Golulá tells the story of Lara, a vain, hyperactive girl, and her friend Bunka, a naïve, good-tempered gorilla in charge of caring for the only cloud that hangs in the sky of the country called Golulá.
Date: 26-27 December Venue: Campos Elíseos Theatre Time: 17:00
Date: 29 December Venue: Campos Elíseos Theatre Time: at 12:00 and 16:30
... In the Third Degree, a Killing Musical
Treasure Island: The Musical
This year Mr Gordon celebrates his birthday again, surrounded by his wealthy family and bohemian friends. Suddenly, someone dies for no apparent reason, which makes everyone suspect a third degree murder.
A musical adaptation of the universal classic, in which young Jim Hawkins finds himself carried away in an amazing adventure when a mysterious seaman, Billy Bones, arrives at the Admiral’s Tavern with the map of a legendary treasure.
Venue: Campos Elíseos Theatre Dates and Times: 26 December at 20:00 27 December at 20:00 and 22:30
Date: 30 December Venue: Campos Elíseos Theatre Time: at 17:00 and 19:30
Moncho Borrajo in I, Quevedo
Txirri, Mirri eta Txiribiton “Therapy”
Moncho Borrajo presents I, Quevedo, as another turn of the screw, after forty years in show business. The audience will enjoy the Quevedo-like scatology and the ingenuity of improvisation in the purest Spanish Golden Age style.
Txirri, Mirri eta Txiribiton will make audiences of all ages laugh at all the things we are capable of doing in our search for wellbeing, when it is really very close and easily had: laughter is the key to happiness.
Date: 28-29 December Venue: Campos Elíseos Theatre Time: 20:00 Lunnis in their musical rocket Juan “D” and Beatriz go to Lunalunera in the Musical Rocket in search of the Lunnis. Together they travel to distant galaxies, navigating in space in search of the most marvellous planet of all.
Date: 2-3 January Venue: Campos Elíseos Theatre Time: 12:00 and 17:00 Illustrious Ignorants World Tour Illustrious Ignorants is a debate in which Javier Coronas, Javier Cansado and Pepe Colubi use comedy to illustrate many different branches of knowledge. Date: 4 Jaunary. Venue: Campos Elíseos Theatre Time: 20:00
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PUPPETS Sowing Stories This play forms part of the Sunday Puppets season, which seeks to bring the wonderful world of puppets close to child audiences (age 3 and older) and families. The aim is to waken a love for theatre. Date: 8 December Venue: Campos Elíseos Theatre Time: 12:30 and 17:30
Renato Carolini’s Little Circus The wonderful world of the Circus presented by the director and owner of the world’s smallest circus. A performance that is part of the Sunday Puppets season. Date: 15 December Venue: Campos Elíseos Theatre Time: 12:30 and 17:30
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The Christmas Adventure The castle where the King and his daughter the Princess live is going to have a party. Father Christmas is the guest of honour. This play forms part of the Sunday Puppets season for child audiences (age 3 and older). Date: 22 December Venue: Campos Elíseos Theatre Time: 12:30 and 17:30
SPORTS
Bilbao Basket
Other Sports Events
Miribilla Sports Centre
XIX Las Arenas to Bilbao Race 29 December
Bilbao Basket - Tuenti Móvil Estudiantes 7 December. (7:15 pm )
Further information at www.eventosbhm.com
Bilbao Basket – Oldenburg Date pending confirmation Bilbao Basket – Laboral Kutxa 22 December at 12.00 noon (12.00 noon) Further information on the matches at www.bilbaobasket.biz
***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
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The Transporter Bridge, the beaches and the cliffs by Metro. The Metro will whisk 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.).
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.
The Urkiola and Gorbeia Natural Parks. The limestone 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.).
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 Enkarterriak. The region known as Las brutality. (40 min.). Encartaciones or Enkarterriak in the west of Bizkaia is an area that combines nature and small villages of great beauty, such as Balmaseda. (30 min). The Valley of Karrantza houses geological treasures such as the Pozalagua Caves, “recently conferred the Best Spot in Spain award” in the Repsol Guide and also caters to the entire family with installations such as El Karpín Animal Rescue Centre. Markina, Lekeitio and Ondarroa. LeaArtibai is the 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.). 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, Bilbao Mendi Film Festival, Aitor Elizegi and all the cultural institutions, associations and organisations that helped with this tourist guide.
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tel: 94 479 57 60 www.bilbao.net/bilbaoturismo www.navidadenbilbao.com
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