The Basque people have a long and unique history in the American West, and many of their traditions are maintained today by Basque clubs throughout the region. One of the oldest and most active is the Elko Basque Club. Founded in 1959, it has hosted the National Basque Festival since 1964.

During the Festival, Basques from all over the region, as well as the old country, gather to reconnect and celebrate their culture. The event features music and dance performances, wood chopping and weight lifting competitions, a picnic, dances, and time for socializing.

The Elko Basque Club also places a priority on teaching the youth of its community. The organization sponsors an annual summer music camp and a dance group, the Arinak Basque Dancers. Basque events, parties, and gatherings happen year-round at the group's clubhouse and the members are a visible and vital part of Elko's cultural mix. The Elko Basque Club received a Governor's Arts Award in 2001 for its role in perpetuating this distinctive element of Nevada's cultural heritage.