euskalkultura.eus

Mexico City, Mexico.  “On May 1, which is the traditional date, Baztango Eguna was celebrated at the Euskal Etxea of Mexico.  The event was organized by 14 people, the majority of which are from Baztan, but who are also assisted by their friends, who are proud of the food and so help anyway.  Maite Arrieta along with her brother Juan Jose are in charge of the kitchen, but without the help of Ramon Irigoyen, Jose Antonio Zugarramurdi, Mauricio Rivera or Josetxo Garaicoechea, to name  a few, they form a team that is able to prepare and serve a meal to the 132 people (including children and adults), that attend each year,” Lourdes said.

[Atmosphere in the Basque club’s fronton, adorned with the Baztan checkerboard (photo MCArrechea)]

“It gets easier every year to create a menu and serve so many people, since each year everyone determines what they need to do and that makes it easier to accomplish,” according to the organizers.  This year, the menu included Baztan-zopa, piperade, lamb stew, pork loin and desert (cake and ice cream).  The atmosphere, the camaraderie and the laughter lasted for hours.

[Lourdes Arrechea, club president at the right, helping with the organization (photo MCArrechea)]

[Some of the organizers preparing the meal for Baztango Eguna 2012 (photo MCArrechea)]

This event has taken place at the Euskal Etxea since 2004 and has become one of the traditional club events.  Not only that, but it seems that it will continue to be one for many years to come: “As long as we enjoy organizing Baztango Eguna, we will continue to do it,” said the organizers in unison.