Have you ever heard of the chipiron, the small squid emblematic of the Basque Country? On July 13th, Hendaye comes alive with a unique celebration honoring this curious protagonist: the Chipiron Festival. If you’re spending your holiday in this southwestern region and looking for activities beyond surfing and the beach, don’t miss this festive day that brings together locals and travelers alike at the foothills of the Pyrenees-Atlantiques. Our 4-star Erreka campsite in Bidart, a favorite destination for camping and Basque cuisine enthusiasts, is just 30 minutes from the festivities.
What is the Chipiron Festival in Hendaye?
The Chipiron Festival in Hendaye is a gastronomic event celebrated every July 13th to honor this little squid, a symbol of the Basque Country. This event attracts food lovers and enthusiasts eager to experience an authentic atmosphere, accompanied by the music of bands like Zarpai Banda or Banda Kaskarot playing traditional Basque tunes that invite everyone to dance. Each year, young and old gather on Avenue des Mimosas (Beach District) for a day filled with music and culinary delights.
The festival is an opportunity to come together and enjoy moments of conviviality, sharing delicious specialties, and discovering the unique flavor of chipiron if you haven’t tasted it yet. Many cultural and sports associations in Hendaye channel their creativity into making the chipiron the star of the event with innovative recipes. These squid-based dishes cater to all tastes, offering a rich culinary experience: seared on a plancha for a quick, flavorful bite, cooked in its ink, or accompanied by Espelette pepper and tomatoes for added zest.
At the festival, you’ll see various preparation styles: some prefer it fried, others pan-fried, oven-baked, or stuffed. A simple recipe is also popular, with chipirons lightly sautéed in a pan with garlic and parsley.
Camping Erreka Rentals for Your Stay
To fully enjoy the Chipiron Festival in Hendaye, Camping Erreka in Bidart offers a variety of comfortable accommodations to suit all budgets.
Modern and Comfortable Mobile Homes
Our mobile home rentals are perfect for family vacations or getaways with friends. They provide all the comforts of home, with fully equipped kitchens, private terraces, and spacious living areas. Available in various sizes, from two to three bedrooms, they can accommodate up to six people. With modern amenities and tasteful décor, you’ll feel at home while enjoying the Chipiron Festival in Hendaye and the holiday atmosphere.
Pitches for Tents and Caravans
For a closer-to-nature experience, opt for our camping pitches. Ideal for tents, caravans, and motorhomes, our pitches are shaded and well-located. Each one is spacious, allowing you to fully enjoy the natural surroundings while benefiting from modern facilities such as electricity and clean sanitary blocks. Our pitches offer an authentic camping experience with all the necessary comforts, perfect after celebrating the Chipiron Festival in Hendaye.
Unique Lodge Experience
For a unique stay, try our Coco Sweet lodges. These original accommodations, a mix between a tent and a mobile home, offer optimal comfort and a cozy ambiance. The Coco Sweet lodges are equipped with two bedrooms, accommodating up to four people, with a kitchenette and a terrace to enjoy your summer evenings. These lodges with innovative designs provide an unforgettable glamping experience, perfect for couples or small families visiting the region for the Chipiron Festival in Hendaye.
Practical Information about the Chipiron Festival in Hendaye
Here’s everything you need to know about the Chipiron Festival in Hendaye:
- When? July 13, 2024, at 7:00 PM
- Where? Avenue des Mimosas, Plage district, Hendaye
- What’s on? A meal featuring chipirons (squid) prepared by Hendaye's cultural and sports associations.
- Musical entertainment: Performances by Zarpai Banda, Alaiak, Koloka, Kaskarot Banda, and DJ Bull.
One thing is certain: those who attend this festival can’t wait to come back for the next July 13 celebration. The Chipiron Festival in Hendaye is a unique opportunity to discover Basque culture while enjoying a memorable stay at Camping Erreka in Bidart. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, our various accommodation options will meet all your expectations. Don’t miss this must-attend Chipiron Festival in Hendaye—book your stay at Camping Erreka now!