These societies combine cuisine, companionship, and solidarity, and were created as informal meeting places where the members themselves prepared the food. Initially, only men participated, but today women can also join.
The kitchen in these clubs is shared, and any member can use it by making a reservation in advance. Each society has its own rules and systems, but their function is the same: to bring together family or friends, cook delicious dishes, and share quality time with loved ones.
There are six gastronomic societies in Elorrio. If you want to visit one of them, you can do so on the first Sunday in December. That is when the Buzkantz Festival is held, and the doors are opened to participants in the competition.