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Besta Berri is the celebration of Corpus-Christi, literally "the Body of Christ,"
held on or near the Thursday after Trinity Sunday. The feast originated in 1264 to
commemorate the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist; a century later it was
introduced into Euskal Herria (Basque Country) by Bishop Arnaldo de Barbazan at
Iruņea-Pamplona. Over time Christian communities responded in various fashions, adopting
their own local customs and traditions to this celebration.
The Basques have traditionally celebrated this feast
in distinctive style. Their love of music and dance made it certain that dancers would
join in the celebration. Once widespread throughout Europe and Euskal Herria, many of
these colorful celebrations dissipated over time. Only a handful have endured. In several
towns in the provinces of Lapurdi and Benafarroa, they observe this feast day with unique
civic-military processions that derive from old French military tunes and characters of
the 19th century. These can still be seen annually in the towns of Iholdi, Ezpeleta,
Bidarrai, Ortzaize, Makea, Donostiri, etc.
When the procession concludes in the town's
main square or plaza with the benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, all are invited to
dance the jauziak or circle dances characteristic of the region.
Video Clip of Besta Berri in Donoztiri
Video Clip of Besta Berri in Iholdi
Video Clip of Besta Berri in Heleta
Video Clip of Besta Berri in ST MARTIN ARBEROUE
Video Clip of Besta Berri in Mendionde
PICNIC DAY SCHEDULE:
10:30 a.m. Basque Mass at the
Chino Fairgrounds with opening procession
of Besta Berri.
12:00 Outdoor plaza: Benediction of the Holy Sacrament
followed by Dantzak: Pasecalle & Mutxikoak for everyone
Chino 2007
Chino 2006
Chino 2005
San Francisco 2002
Chino 2001
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