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The Smithsonian Folklife Festival is still being celebrated in the US capitol, this year celebrating the Basques and their culture.  In regards to the first part, June 29th until today, expectations have been met and the provisional evaluation of the event is very optimistic.  This weekend, a sapling of the Tree of Gernika was planted in the Capitol Gardens and today, weather allowing, will be a very busy day coinciding with the 4th of July. 

Washington, DC. USA.  Everything is ready in the heart of Washington for the last day of the first part of the Smithsonian Folklife Festival.  As is already known, the US capital is experiencing, on the privileged grounds of the National Mall in front of the Capitol Building, one of the most anticipated events of the year, the Smithsonian Folklife Festival that is organized annually in conjunction with the 4th of July festivities.  This year’s festival is dedicated to the Basques and their culture.  After today, the festival will take two days off and will return on Thursday, July 7th to continue and finally conclude on July 10th.

Everyone that EuskalKultura.com has talked to agree, exhibitors and audience alike, whether from the Basque Country or the US, that it has been a wonderful event.  The weather has cooperated until today, despite rain on the eve of the beginning of the event.  The forecast for today, isn’t great, although there is hope that the weather will hold out so the day can progress normally at the festival and culminate in the 4th July fireworks as always.  We’ll see when the sun comes up.

Today’s program is available here.

Following is a selection of videos that serve to summarize some of the activities and possibilities that the Smithsonian Folklife Festival offered.  For those who would still like to attend, you still have time, or for others who would prefer to enjoy the event from their homes, here you go.  Enjoy! (videos EuskalKultura.com) 

Beginning of the concert on the eve of the festival.  Presented by Xabi Paya, in bertso, mixing Basque and English

At the same concert, dantzaris from the Aukeran group dancing and singing the Aurresku at the National Museum of the American Indian

Outdoor performance by Kepa Junkera and Sorginak: resiliency, color and joy, inviting people to dance

Kepa Junkera and Sorginak brought a clear Basque touch to the entire area that is iconic for many Americans

The festival grounds for the Smithsonian Folklife Festival is bordered by the Capitol Building on one end and the Washington Monument on the other

There are various areas at the festival, tents, and different activities.  One of these, is dedicated to the relationship between the Basques and the sea

Aupa Euskaldunak!  Boise’s Amuma Says No….with the Joaldunak from Ituren passing by

Basque cooking also has its own space.  Seen here a pintxo workshop and Basque cooking on a smaller scale

[To be continued]