Guided by their shepherds, the sheepdogs have to herd the sheep into pens placed there for the occasion.

The festival was originally held to pay homage to shepherds, men who lived in isolation for most of the year, on the day the flocks were brought down from the mountains. The formerly non-competitive event has evolved over the years and has recently become very popular, attracting a growing number of visitors and participants.

The event now includes Saturday activities such as games and entertainment for children, goose-herding exhibitions, and wine and Idiazabal cheese tastings, and the Sunday craft market.