Festival dates and location

The Espelette pepper festival will be held on October 24 and 25, 2026, in the village of Pyrénées-Atlantiques. This event is organized by the pepper brotherhood, a group dedicated to preserving the traditions and culture surrounding the Espelette pepper, a local variety known for its distinct flavor and use in Basque cuisine.

Opening day events

The festival will begin on the first day with a "demonstration of strength" by the Herri Kirola Jasoka club at 1 p.m. at the fronton, a traditional Basque sports arena. Later that afternoon, the group Ezpela will perform Basque dances at 3 p.m. at the same location.

Music and religious elements

Following the dance performance, a concert by the male choir Ezpeletan Kantuz will take place inside the Saint-Étienne church. In the evening, a "popular" dinner will be held at the covered market, offering visitors a taste of local cuisine.

Sunday’s religious and cultural highlights

On Sunday, October 25, a mass accompanied by the Espelette choir is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. This will be followed by the "blessing of the peppers," a symbolic ritual, and a parade of brotherhoods. The "Pepper 2026 Award" will then be presented at the fronton.

Activities for all ages

Throughout the festival, local producers will sell their specialties, with nearly 200 vendors expected. For children, an interactive treasure hunt will be organized to explore the history and traditions of Espelette pepper. A shuttle service will also be available to visitors traveling from nearby communes.

Transport and accessibility

The shuttle service will operate throughout the event, connecting visitors from the communes of Cambo-les-Bains, Souraïde, Itxassou, Larressore, and Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle. This ensures that attendees from surrounding areas can easily access the festival grounds.