Elko residents and visitors alike gathered at the Friday kick off the 52nd annual Elko National Basque Festival.(from Elko Daily)

Lauren Deane. “The only change we’ve made to the festival is we moved most of the events to the clubhouse,” said the Basque Club President Choch Zaga. “We added some yard extensions to the clubhouse, so now we have the space to host the events.”

Stahlke said this year’s festival may not be as well attended as previous years, but the food, festivities and entertainment is going to be just as unforgettable.

“My favorite part of the festival is Saturday night at the dance,” she said. “The dance is a time where everyone comes and lets loose to enjoy the music, dance and have a great time.”

Zaga said his favorite part of the festival is the Sunday afternoon picnic.

“It’s a time where family gets together to eat and enjoy each other’s company,” he said. “That’s what the festival is all about, celebrating our heritage.”

While the Basque Club leadership’s favorite part of the festival involves food, family and drinks, 6-year-old dancer Addison Weaver’s favorite part is the dancing.

“My favorite music is the clapping one, and my favorite dance is the chicken dance,” said Addison shyly.

While Addison loves being on her feet, she said she isn’t a fan of the Basque chorizos. She’d much prefer if the festival served her favorite food, “mac-n-cheese.”

More games, dancing and celebrating will commence today at the Elko County Fairgrounds, Elko Basque Clubhouse and in downtown Elko.