euskalkultura.eus

It took place June 29-July 10th, in two segments including the emblematic date of July 4th.  A year ago Basques from Europe as well as from several US states arrived in Washington DC to present themselves as a people and culture in this privileged showcase that is the Smithsonian Folklif Festival.  Over the two weeks, they showed the American public pieces of their history and culture.  We have selected some videos of the event. 

Washington DC.  An Europan Basque business and economic delegation that toured several states arrived on the night before the inauguration of the event.  These included the Basque Government’s minister of industry, and three deputy generals, who the day before attended an artistic gala that included artists at the level of pianist Joaquin Achucarro, ballerina Lucia Lacarra and a cast of excellent dancers.  The Basque-American political and institutional representative was California congressman John Garamendi and his wife Patty.

This first video shows the artistic gala that preceded the event’s inauguration held at the National Native American Museum.  MC at the event was Xabi Paya, representing Donostia 2016, in his role as a bertsolari but as well as someone who dominates the stage serving as the perfect host, mixing his great skill with words and bertsos in both Basque and English.  Here is a sample of the presentation of the evening:

After the opening remarks in verse, the greeting danced par excellence, the Aurresku, Agurra dedicated to the Americans, Basque-Americans and Basques present: 

After the inauguration of the Smithsonian Folklife Festival 2017, the first concert in the National Mall, in front of the Capitol building was by Kepa Junkera with Sorgiñak:

Dancing was contagious, Basques from Europe and America gathered again through their common culture, in this case through dance: 

A look at the first day before the first weekend:

The two-week event included various aspects of traditional Basque culture shared with the American audience.  A classic ingredient, food, was also present including food workshops as seen here: 

“Basques and the Sea.” The historic relationship and the Basque industry from the sea had to be included.  They were also present in Washington DC: