Ongi Etorri!

PHOTOS BY KAREN DAY

This expression is used to welcome outsiders in the ancient Basque language. You hear these words often on the last weekend of July when the Basque community comes together in downtown Boise to celebrate and share their culture. The warm summer air is filled with the aroma of roasting garlic and paella, chorizo, and croquettas, while lively accordion music accompanies colorful folk dancers and hand-ball competitions. Presiding over it all is the statue of St Ignatius, the Patron Saint of the Basque people.

Boise has the highest concentration of Basque people living outside their origin country. In 1900, Idaho was home to 2 million sheep and a Basque migration followed the industry here from northern Spain. Today, many Boiseans can trace family roots to those first immigrants.

Mark your calendar now to join 2024 festivities and taste Kalimotxo, the signature Coke and red wine drink that is guaranteed to make you feel like dancing!