ASTERO
This week we would like to extend our wishes for a verry happy New Year! Urte berri on!
We are again sharing a tradition of New Year's caroling featured on Urte Sasoiak, a collaborative effort of Euskal Herriko Ikastolen Elkartea and Labayru Ikastegia.
On New Year's Day it was traditional for young people to go from farmhouse to farmhouse singing their request for goodies. This kind of collection ritual is known, in general, as puska biltzea and is carried out for Saint Agatha and Saint John's Eve and other feast days as well. The lyrics of the songs reflect each unique occasion. The following from Elantxobe is one of many versions for New Year or Urte Barri in Bizkaia:
Urte Barri Barri
Urte barri Si si si otzara bete solomo |
New Year Yes, yes, yes Fill my basket with pork loin |
In some locations in Nafarroa including Urdiain, a New Year's ritual involves collecting the year's first water from fountains at midnight which is said to have protective properties for those who drink it.
However you celebrate, we hope you have a safe and happy New Year's Eve and a healthy and prosperous New Year!
01/01/2026
