Every September, Las Arenas throws its biggest party of the year for its patron saint, Our Lady of Mercy, or Las Mercedes, as everyone here calls it. For three days, music, tradition and street life take over the neighbourhood, and Palacio Arriluce, just a short walk from the centre, gives you a five-star base on the Cantabrian coast to take it all in at your own pace.

Late September Belongs to Las Arenas

Late September belongs to Las Arenas' patron saint. For several days, the neighbourhood's streets and squares come alive with festivities. In 2026, they run from 25 to 27 September, one of the most deeply rooted dates on Getxo's calendar.

Three Days of Basque Tradition

It all kicks off with the pregón and the txupinazo on day one, then rolls straight into concerts, open-air dances and games for every age group. Saturday's the big day out on the streets, with a popular sardine lunch and a Basque rural sports display, while Sunday morning brings one of the festival's best-loved fixtures: the snail contest, followed by a craft fair, a paella for everyone, and a showcase of marmitako, the local fish stew. Year after year, these same traditions, just a few minutes' walk from the hotel, turn Las Arenas into the liveliest corner of Getxo.

Beyond the Festival: Las Arenas' Own Story

Long before it became a party destination, Las Arenas was Getxo's first seaside resort, built in the late 19th century by Bilbao's shipping and industrial families, who lined its streets with villas and grand houses. You can still feel that elegance along the Zugazarte promenade, a lovely stretch for a walk before or after the celebrations. The neighbourhood also borders the Bizkaia Bridge, a transporter bridge listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, just over a kilometre from the hotel.

An Evening at Delaunay

After a day out at the festival, Delaunay restaurant, helmed by chef Fernando Canales, serves a menu built on local produce with views over the Cantabrian Sea, the perfect way to slow down before heading up to your room.

Book Your Stay

Las Mercedes turns the last weekend of September into one of Getxo's busiest, and rooms go fast. Staying at Palacio Arriluce puts you right on Las Arenas' doorstep, with the sea views and quiet comfort the hotel's known for. Book your stay.