Basque ethnography at a glance

A tavern in the town of Bedia (Bizkaia). Source: Labayru Fundazioa Photographic Archive.

“Txikiteo” is a traditional custom that is deeply rooted in the Basque Country (and other neighbouring territories). It consists of going from one bar to another standing and drinking “txikitos”, that is, small amounts of wine taken from glasses. The space in which it is practiced is generally limited to one or more small areas of the town, where there are many bars. In these places, people called “txikiteros” take turns. They are formed by groups of friends who take advantage of the opportunity to meet and exchange news about their town, other nearby towns or general events, and today a rather pedantic term for “socializing” is used for this. Txikiteo is also called “poteo”, and the act of “txikitear” is called “potear” as well.

In the past, txikiteo was held twice a day, and only adult men participated (“prakadunak”, literally translated as “those who wore trousers”). The first two-hour break (from 12 to 2 p.m.) facilitated the workers, especially those who had the opportunity to meet and eat. At 2:00 p.m., when the factory sirens sounded, people had to go back to work. Previously, many people drank “cafe completo” (full coffee), that is, coffee, a glass of cognac or another liqueur and a cigar. At 6 or 7 p.m., after work, they had another drink before going home. On Sundays and holidays, workers drank less often, as men were more involved in family life.

The wine was red, strong, and was served at the counter in heavy, thick glasses, from white porcelain jugs, into which they poured a wineskin (“zaragia” in Basque) that was kept in the establishment. There were waiters who showed real skill in quickly pouring a row of glasses without spilling a single drop.

To drink this way, the population needed a sufficient number of residents. In rural areas, wine was drunk at home on labour days (weekdays), and farmers would save some drinks for Sundays and holidays when they went to mass at the community centre or the neighbourhood chapel.

Txikiteros Festival. Source: Old Town Merchants Association.

Over time, women began to go to txikiteo, first with men and later alone or in mixed groups. They mainly drank white wine or claret.

With the younger generation and as the years went by, the custom of txikiteo declined and has changed. The new work schedules and methods, and changes in customs, including health care, have had an impact. Young people and even many older people as well, have gradually replaced wine with a small glass of beer called “zurito”. In addition, teenagers have organized themselves into groups, which drink in so-called “lonjas”, rented premises or properties where they meet to have fun and share their problems.

Segundo Oar-Arteta — Labayru Fundazioa