Lazkao will once again be the epicenter of Kilometroak on October 4th, in a very special edition commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Gipuzkoa ikastola festival. The town, which also hosted the first edition in 1977, will present under the slogan 'Ibilian-ibilian, buelta' a day that aims to merge five decades of history with a look towards the future, as announced by Lazkaoko Ikastola.
Irantzu Amundarain, president of Lazkaoko Ikastola, has highlighted the exceptional nature of this edition, emphasizing it as an occasion to celebrate the journey undertaken and recognize all those who have worked for Basque language, education, and community life. The preparation for the festival has mobilized numerous local residents and stakeholders in Lazkao.
Citizen involvement has been a cornerstone of the organization. Various activities have taken place throughout the year, and around a thousand volunteers will be needed on October 4th. Amundarain has publicly thanked all collaborators and participants, stressing their crucial role in making this anniversary special. A call has also been made to the public for Lazkao to be the stage for a shared celebration.
The festival will be spread across four main areas in Lazkao: the ikastola surroundings in the town center, Iturrialdea, Lazkao Txiki square, and the Gurutze neighborhood. These locations will host over 30 activities designed for various ages and tastes.
Music will play a significant role in the program, featuring artists such as Nafarroa 1512, Gozategi, local artist Eider Saez, and Go!azen. Additionally, the traditional lottery will be held, offering around 10,000 prizes. Tickets have been available at festivals in Lazkao, Beasain, and Ordizia, with a final opportunity on October 4th.
Aitor Elizaran, president of the cultural association KMK, has emphasized the significance of Kilometroak over five decades, defining it as a collective effort for and by the Basque language, and defending its importance in strengthening the community and keeping the language present in leisure and culture. He also highlighted the involvement in Lazkao, reflecting the spirit of ikastolas born from the communities they serve.
The 50th anniversary will also feature a look back: 'Denboraren tunela' (Time Tunnel), prepared by students from the Basque language group at Lazkaoko Ikastola. This time tunnel will consist of five sections, one for each decade, with informational panels on Kilometroak's history. Students Mara Naldaiz and Amalur Agirrezabala explained that a sixth tunnel will be dedicated to the future, where visitors can share their reflections for the coming years.
In terms of competition, the final of Erronka will take place. Xeber Maiza, coordinator of Kilometroak Lazkao, stated that young people from 25 ikastolas will participate in these skill-based challenges.
The organization anticipates a large turnout and recommends using public transport. Both Renfe and Lurraldebus will reinforce their services. Parking will be available for private vehicles, but the importance of sustainable alternatives is emphasized. As a novelty, a secure, guarded bicycle parking area will be provided. Furthermore, 'puntos morados' (purple points) will be established in all four festival areas to offer assistance and guidance regarding sexual assaults, and hospitality staff have been trained in response protocols.
