Calendar of the Fish Festivals in Bizkaia

Throughout the year, Bizkaia’s coastline comes alive with festivals centered on grilled sardines and marmitako. Yet two weekends stand out above the rest, when the ports and historic quarters of the fishing towns of Bermeo and Ondarroa burst into celebration.

ONDARROA

Antxoa Eguna 2026 takes place over the weekend of May 15–17.

On Friday, local authorities open the first crate of anchovies —a gesture that symbolizes the sea’s abundance— while the Cofradía de Santa Clara awards the Silver Anchovy, a prize honoring a lifetime devoted to the sea or to promoting the coastline.

On Saturday, the harbor fills with stalls serving thousands of anchovy pintxos—fried, marinated, or crafted into bite-sized haute cuisine. Local canneries showcase their produce, available to buy on the spot, while kantu poteo groups bring music to the streets of the Old Town along Artibai and Kantoipe. Out at sea, traditional rowing regattas turn the water into a grand stadium.

Sunday is reserved for the Fishermen’s Mass, a tribute to those who never returned to port. The winners of the festival’s best pintxo are announced, and the final toasts are made with crisp txakoli.

BERMEO

The 32nd Arrain Azoka (Fish Fair) in Bermeo takes over Lamera Park just a week later, from May 22 to 24, 2026.

Festivities get underway on Friday with the Hegaluze Saria (Bonito Award), honoring those who champion maritime culture. Throughout the weekend, the Cofradía Vieja Hall hosts traditional fish auction reenactments, bringing back the rhythmic calls once used to sing out prices. There are also hands-on workshops for children to discover life at sea, while the artisanal bonito boat Ortube opens its doors to visitors.

On Saturday, the Pintxo Solidario not only delights the palate but also raises funds for a good cause. Dozens of stalls serve up bonito del norte, salt-cured anchovies, and gourmet preserves. And, of course, the fair wouldn’t be complete without live music, a festive atmosphere, and thrilling rowing regattas

SARDINERA EGUNA IN SANTURTZI

In early October, Santurtzi turns its gaze to the sea with the Day of the Sardinera, honoring the historic fish seller —an essential pillar of the town’s maritime identity. The day unfolds with lively parades, market stalls, and a central tribute at the fishing port.

These sardineras once travelled far beyond Santurtzi —to Bilbao, Txorierri, and even Arratia— balancing large baskets of sardines on their heads and carrying a weighing scale in hand. They journeyed on foot, by train or tram, calling out their wares through streets and squares, from farmhouse to farmhouse, bringing the taste of the sea inland.