Fiestas are the most visible displays of folk traditions.
In Biscay, as in the rest of the Basque Country, they are held throughout the year. There follows a brief selection, divided by season. On the 21st of December, the feast day of St. Thomas, a large fair of country produce is held in Bilbao. The 25th December, Christmas Day, marks the first important feast day of the winter season. In the Basque Country, the Three Wise Man, popular gift-bearers throughout Spain, are joined by the figure of the Olantxero, a mythical coalman who descends from the mountains to bring the good tidings, and in passing, to remind us with his presents that we must always keep our hearts open to others.