On the 24th December Basques celebrate Christmas Eve and get ready for the Olentzero to come. He is a coalman who comes down from the mountains on Christmas Eve to leave presents and toys in people’s houses at night. To welcome him, different events are organised around the Basque Country.
In Irun neighbourhood and cultural associations, choirs, schools, groups of friends, etc. all come together to sing around the city. In San Juan Harria square the Olentzero Song Festival is held and the Olentzero himself even shows up to collect children’s Christmas wish-list.