Basque Festival - Fireworks Cancelled in Hendaye

The Pyrénées-Atlantiques prefecture has placed the department on RED alert for a very high risk of forest and natural area fires. As a result, the fireworks display planned as part of the Basque Festival in Hendaye, originally scheduled for Sunday, August 9, 2026, has been officially cancelled for environmental safety reasons.

Traditionally held as part of Hendaye’s summer festivities, this evening was set to light up the sky with an iconic fireworks display, a symbol of the Basque Festival (Euskal Besta). Despite the enthusiasm of locals and visitors alike, the prefecture’s decision takes precedence to protect natural spaces and prevent any risk of fire during this intense drought period.

The organizers are calling for vigilance and remind everyone of the importance of following safety guidelines to protect our environment. A special thought goes out to the teams who work every year to make this event a magical moment, as well as to the attendees who will have to settle for the festive atmosphere and alternative activities planned without the fireworks.

See you next year for a new edition, hoping for clearer skies!