Basques in Boise

As the Jaialdi International Basque Cultural Festival draws nearer, organizers are planning a book to ensure those who attend have a constant reminder of the event.

As in other years, the people behind Jaialdi are producing a program book with a threefold purpose: to make ''a long-lasting souvenir for yourself, family or friends'' but also to provide an opportunity to advertise business or remember loved ones.

Your co-operation in developing the book will also ensure that the price remains low.

Those who advertised or posted memorials in previous programs should have been contacted by Jaialdi about opportunities to do so this year. First timers should go to the Jaialdi blog to find details and application forms for placing their ad or memorial.

Deadline for advertising is April 16, 2010.

Jaialdi

The Jaialdi takes place every five years thanks to the support and dedication of the Basque community of Boise. In 2005, 30,000 people attended the event. This year it is celebrated during the week of July 26 through August 1 and promises a packed schedule:

Events scheduled throughout the week include Basque sports; the ''Festara'', featuring Basque dancing and bertsolariak, plus 36 dance groups from six Western US States; and live music from Boise groups such as ''Amuma Says No''.

Those travelling from far away are in luck as some Boise hotels offer discounted rates during the festival, although you should probably get a move on if you want to book.

If you''re traveling all the way from the Basque Country and want the make the most of the long journey, several travel agencies in the Basque Country are organizing trips which could see you also taking in places such as New York, New Orleans or Chicago during your travels.