Pamplona is a historic city located in the Navarre region of northern Spain. It is perhaps best known internationally for the San Fermín festival, particularly the running of the bulls, which takes place annually in July. The San Fermín festival, held from July 6th to July 14th, is a world-famous event that attracts visitors from around the globe. The most iconic event of the festival is the running of the bulls (encierro), where participants run ahead of a group of bulls through the streets of Pamplona. The festival also includes religious processions, music, dancing, and other cultural events.
The festival is named after Saint Fermín, the patron saint of Pamplona, and has both religious and cultural significance. Perhaps the most iconic event of the festival, the running of the bulls takes place every morning at 8:00 a.m. Participants, known as “mozos,” run ahead of a group of bulls through the narrow streets of Pamplona, covering a course of approximately 850 meters from the corral to the bullring. It’s a thrilling and dangerous tradition that requires courage and agility.
The festival kicks off on July 6th at noon with the firing of the “chupinazo,” a rocket that marks the official start of the festivities. Thousands of people gather in Pamplona’s main square, the Plaza del Castillo, wearing white clothing and red scarves, to participate in the lively celebration. Throughout the festival, there are religious processions, ceremonies, and Masses honoring Saint Fermín. These events pay tribute to the city’s patron saint and highlight the religious origins of the festival.
The Festival of San Fermín features music, dancing, concerts, and other cultural performances throughout the week. Visitors can enjoy traditional Basque music, folk dances, street performers, and live entertainment in various locations around the city. Penas are local social clubs that organize street parties, concerts, and other events during the festival. These gatherings are known for their lively atmosphere, with participants singing, dancing, and celebrating together late into the night. The festival concludes on July 14th with a spectacular fireworks display over Pamplona’s citadel. The fireworks mark the end of the week-long festivities and provide a dazzling finale to the celebration.