Gau Beltza - Witch's Ball

1, rue des Halles, Halles de Gaztelu

Gau Beltza, meaning 'Black Night' in Basque, is an ancient Basque celebration that takes place each year on October 31 in Hendaye. This tradition marked the passage from autumn to winter. Today, the City of Hendaye revives this tradition through a large popular festival blending Basque mythology, witch’s ball, performances, music, dance, parades and symbolic rituals. Participants are invited to share their fears, entrust them to the legendary figures of the night, and watch them disappear in a purifying fire, a symbol of renewal...