CLICK HERE FOR BLOGGER TEMPLATES AND MYSPACE LAYOUTS »

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

My Basque Experience

This past weekend was the 42nd Annual Basque Festival and Picnic here in Chino. I've been wanting to go for the past few years we've just never made our way over. This year, we marked it on the calendar way in advance and made it out to see the festivities.

It was really a neat experience. I learned so much about the origins of much of my heritage, and exposed my husband to what we may ultimately discover is his as well. That still remains to be seen, but it did spark his own interest in his Spanish roots.
I did notice first off, how much they like to drink - everything revolved around the bar. They even made an announcement before the dancing started to go hit up the bar...it was hilarious. Secondly, I noticed how dominant their features are. I could definitely see my Dad in much of the men there. I also noticed the Basque influence on the Uruguayan culture on such things as the Beret that Dad and many Uruguayos wear, and the Gauchos traditional clothes is influenced by the Basque as well. It was just eye opening.

I have attached some videos that I took while their and added some pictures mostly for Anita, but you are all welcome to enjoy.


4 comments:

Iris said...

For some reason I don't get updates when you post a new blog. Bummer.
Looks like there was a lot of people!

Lisa said...

When I logged on to see your blog, I had to do a double take, cuz I thought your brother Daniel transferred his Basque experience on your blog. (oh..the way the mind works.)

That looked like a great way to spend time with the family! I'm sure Anita is gonna LOVE the videos! Very cool Lizzie!

j. said...

That's really awesome. Lately I've felt the itch to know more about our heritage, too. I know lots about Japanese culture but next to nothing about the Basques. I'm glad you shared this with us!

Lisa said...

That's so cool that you were able to go to that!