Elko: The Heart of Basque Traditions

National Basque Festival

Elko is known for the National Basque Festival, which is held annually over the Fourth of July weekend. This fun celebration of Basque heritage features traditional dance performances, weightlifting and wood-chopping competitions, and delicious Basque cuisine.

The Star Hotel & Bar

No visit to Elko is complete without dining at The Star Hotel & Bar, a historic Basque restaurant established in 1910. The Star has classic, hearty dishes, including lamb chops, homemade cabbage soup, and Basque beans. The communal dining experience is a nod to traditional Basque family meals.

Western Folklife Center

This Elko cultural hub preserves the traditions of the American West, including Basque heritage. The center hosts various exhibitions and events that showcase Basque and Western music, dance, and storytelling. It’s also home to the famous National Cowboy Poetry Gathering—held every January.

Ogi Deli Bar & Pintxos

If you’re looking for a quick Basque lunch, Ogi Deli is a great option. This restaurant—located in the heart of downtown Elko—offers fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a menu inspired by traditional Basque flavors like chorizo sandwiches, bilotza (lamb sandwiches), and a great selection of pintxos (small snacks).

Northeastern Nevada Museum

One of northern Nevada’s largest museums showcases a diverse range of exhibits, from Native American artifacts to the history of ranching, mining, and the Basque community. Through its displays, visitors explore the deep connections between the people and the land, including the significant impact of Basque immigrants in the region.

Winnemucca: A Taste of Basque Hospitality

The Martin Hotel

This northern Nevada landmark has been offering an authentic Basque dining experience since 1898. The restaurant serves family-style meals with generous portions of homemade soup, salad, Basque beans, mashed potatoes, vegetables, baked bread, hand-cut fries, and the famous Martin bread pudding. All of that, plus your entrée, will leave you feeling full and happy.

Winnemucca Basque Festival

This fun celebration is held every June and features traditional Basque games, jota dancing, Basque music, a parade, and traditional foods. It’s an exciting event for those looking to experience more of this unique culture.

Humboldt Museum

If you’re interested in learning more about Basque culture in Winnemucca, check out the Humboldt Museum, which presents an exhibit showcasing the Basque people who have lived in northern Nevada for more than a century. 

Reno: Where Tradition Meets Today

Louis’ Basque Corner

Downtown Reno has been serving Basque cuisine since 1967. Louis’ Basque Corner is popular for its friendly atmosphere and delicious food—in fact, it was named one of “USA Today’s” restaurants of the year in 2024. Don’t miss trying the iconic Basque cocktail: the Picon Punch.

Reno Basque Festival

This Reno festival—typically held in July—is a vibrant celebration of Basque music, dance, and food. Enjoy spectating traditional Basque sports, like weightlifting and wood chopping, or try a variety of Basque dishes. The festival also features live performances by Basque musicians and dancers. 

“National Monument of the Basque Sheepherder”

This monument—located at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park in Reno—was created by Basque sculptor Nestor Basterretxea. The towering structure honors the Basque people and their long-standing tradition of sheep herding.

Jon Bilbao Basque Library

If you’re interested in diving deeper into the Basque culture, you can check out the Jon Bilbao Basque Library on the University of Nevada, Reno campus. This is the leading library on Basque subjects outside of Europe.