Boise's Biggest International Cultural Celebration
The Ultimate Guide to Jaialdi
What began as a one-time international celebration of Basque culture in Boise
turned out to be too extraordinary to remain a single event. With 30,000 people gathering to eat, drink, dance, and celebrate, festival organizers quickly realized that Jaialdi deserved a reprise.
Since the late 1980s, the festival has transformed Boise into a vibrant celebration of Basque heritage every five years, except in 2020, when the pandemic postponed the celebration. Now, after a decade-long wait, Boise’s beloved cultural celebration makes a triumphant return, with excitement reaching a fever pitch throughout the community.
Welcoming, Joyful, and Authentically Basque
Jaialdi is the embodiment of community spirit. Powered entirely by a team of dedicated volunteers, the passion behind this event is palpable. Visitors from every background find themselves at home, embraced by the warm, inclusive atmosphere. The streets of Boise come alive with traditional dancing, mouthwatering cuisine, and an infectious spirit of togetherness.
As the largest Basque celebration outside of the Basque Country, Jaialdi is an authentic cultural experience. As the saying goes, “Everyone’s Basque at Jaialdi!” Whether you’re a longtime festival-goer or a curious first-timer, the energy following this 10-year hiatus promises an unforgettable celebration!
Freshly Made Paella at the Basque Market
Navigate Jaialdi Like a Local
The history of Basques, both in Boise and the homeland, is rich and complex. The Basque Museum and Cultural Center provides an in-depth and hands-on look at their triumphs and struggles.
The heart of Jaialdi comes alive on the historic Basque Block in downtown Boise. The festivities, themed “Basque-ing on the Block,” kick off on Tuesday, and the party keeps rolling every day through Friday. Both street dances will light up this vibrant hub, which features a museum, a market, restaurants, and bars. Meanwhile, Sports Night, Festara, and Dantzaldi will take place at the Idaho Central Arena right across the street from the Basque Block. The best part? The prime location of the Basque Block puts you just steps away from everything downtown Boise has to offer.
On Saturday and Sunday, festival-goers can be found “Basuqe-ing at Expo Idaho,” just 5.5 miles from the Basque Block. There are a few ways to get from point A to point B.
- Experience the scenic route: rent a bike or scooter and cruise Boise’s stunning Greenbelt —a riverside pathway connecting downtown to Expo Idaho. This 35-minute ride showcases Boise’s natural beauty
- Need speed? Grab an Uber or a Lyft for a quick 10-minute ride
- Budget Conscious? Get an all-day bus pass for just $2.50. The bus station is just one block over from the Basque Block. Take Route 7 to Route 21. Find schedules (and free ride info) here.
The Modern Hotel and Bar
Finding Your Perfect Jaialdi Home Base
Boutique. Luxury. Local.
- The Grove Hotel – Luxury accommodations with breathtaking views of the city, adjacent to both the Basque Block and Idaho Central Arena.
- Hotel 43 – Boutique hotel offering a unique, local vibe just a few blocks away from the festivities.
- Inn at 500 – Butler’s pantries, local art, and themed rooms delive luxury, and unmatched service just two blocks from the Basque Block.
- The Modern – a renovated Travelodge with mid-century flair features original crafted cocktails, a talented chef, live music, and a courtyard with stone fire pits.
- The Avery Hotel – A historic boutique hotel located in downtown Boise that has been renovated down to every tiny detail, including a French-inspired restaurant and late-night gastrotavern
More Options:
Pro Tip: Downtown lodging fills quickly during Jaialdi—book early to secure your spot in the center of the celebration!
Beyond Downtown: Comfortable Options with Easy Access
Find budget-friendly options just outside of downtown. Many hotels offer shuttles to downtown or are located on a bus line. Or discover a charming bungalow in a nearby neighborhood through Airbnb. The East End and the North End are within walking distance of Downtown
Hells Canyon Adventures
While You’re Here
Squeeze every drop of fun from your trip to Southwest Idaho with these group-friendly activities.
Trek the Trails
Jaialdi happens in the shadow of the Boise Foothills, where over 210 miles of trails beckon just blocks from downtown. From leisurely strolls to quad-burning climbs, these winding trails deliver breathtaking vistas. Rally your crew to Camel’s Back Park for a casual group adventure, or conquer Tablerock for panoramic city views.
Feeling the heat? Just 30 minutes outside of downtown Boise, Bogus Basin Ski Resort is an adventure paradise with cooler temps. A premier mountain biking destination with epic hiking trails, too. While you’re there, take a scenic chairlift ride for effortless views, zoom down Idaho’s only mountain coaster, or try summer tubing.
Get Wet & Wild
Need to cool off after all that dancing? Float through town on the Boise River. Rent a tube and sit back for a leisurely float. Craving more splash? Book a day trip down the world renowned Payetter River with Bear Valley Rafting or choose your whitewater or kayaking adventure with Cascade Raft and Kayak.
Got more time and a thirst for adventure? Dive into American’s deepest gorge — Hells Canyon. Let Hells Canyon Adventures take you on a 3-day overnight rafting trip. Spot abundant wildlife, conquer heart-pounding rapids, all while surrounded by dramatic basalt canyon walls.
From mild to wild, whatever your adventure level: Southwest Idaho has the perfect whitewater adventure for every thrill level.
Sip & Cycle
Garden City, abutting the Boise River and surrounded by Boise on all sides, is a thriving wine community. Gather your group for the ultimate wine adventure: the Greenbelt Wine Ride. Rent bikes and pedal along the scenic river path between tasting rooms, sampling award-winning local vintages. Dedicate a few hours or make a full day of it!
Read More
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Boise’s Basque Block
Explore the hub of Basque food and culture outside of Europe.
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Discover Your Next Home Away From Home
Where you stay can be a defining memory of any trip. So choose wisely. We’ve assembled some ideas and inspiration for unforgettable places to stay on your next visit to Southwest Idaho.
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How to do Jaialdi
Jaialdi — a huge neighborhood block party where tens of thousands of people from around the world gather together for Basque food, sports, dancing and nonstop fun.
