The Running of the Bulls
{ Tags: pamplona, Running of the Bulls, San Fermin \ May24 }
From the 6th of July to the 14th of July every year, the town of Pamplona comes alive! Commencing with the sounds of the Chupinazo (ceremonial rocket), which signify the start of the festival, the town enters into party mode for nine days, stopping briefly only for ‘The Encierno’ or running of the bulls.
The running of the bulls, which is one of the festival’s main highlights, sees hundreds of people running in front of six bulls down an 825-metre stretch of narrow streets in a section of the old town of Pamplona. Taking just three minutes, the bulls will end up in Pamplona’s bullring, where they will be held until the afternoon bullfight.
The event is not without risks, and some 15 people have died in the bull run since 1925. You can however now catch the live action in the safety and comfort of 1st and 2nd floor balconies along the bull run stretch.
After the bull run, join the thousands of people, who have come from around the world in celebration of friendship, joy and music. Deck yourselves out in red and white, while feasting on Caldico chocolate with churros, aperitifs, and party with the Gigantes or ceremonial giants and Cabezudos (carnival figures with big heads). Each night features a 30-minute fireworks spectacle, followed by all-night partying.