The Fiesta de San Fermín is a world-renowned festival held annually in Pamplona, Spain, in honor of San Fermín, the patron saint of the city. The event is most famous for the encierro, or running of the bulls, where participants race in front of a group of bulls through the narrow streets of the city. The festival also includes traditional music, dancing, parades, and religious ceremonies. It is a vibrant celebration of Spanish culture that attracts thousands of visitors each year. The Fiesta de San Fermín is known for its thrilling and sometimes dangerous events, but it also offers a unique blend of history, tradition, and festivity.
DATES & TIMES
• Festival dates (2026): Monday–Tuesday, 6–14 July 2026.
• Opening: Chupinazo rocket from the Town Hall balcony on 6 July at 12:00 (noon). Learn about opening & closing.
• Running of the Bulls (Encierro): Daily 7–14 July at 08:00 (848.6 m route; ~2 minutes). Encierro info.
• Procession of San Fermín: 7 July morning (about 10:00–14:00). Procession details.
• Fireworks: Nightly show around 23:00 (Citadel area). Fireworks info.
• Closing: Pobre de Mí farewell on 14 July at midnight in Plaza Consistorial. Closing ceremony.
LOCATION
• Where: Historic centre of Pamplona — the Encierro course runs Santo Domingo → Plaza Consistorial → Mercaderes → Estafeta → Telefónica → Bullring.
• See the Encierro route.
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Free roadside viewing along the course (arrive very early; streets close 90 minutes before the run). Viewing & rules.
• Balconies: Many private balconies are available via local providers (often with breakfast). How to watch from a balcony.
• Bullring: Watch the finale of the Encierro and evening bullfights at the Plaza de Toros (tickets via the Feria del Toro). Ticket info.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Safety & rules: Runners must be 18+, sober, and follow police/cowherd instructions; fines apply for violations. Official rules.
• Giants & Big‑heads: Beloved morning parades daily. Meet the troupe.
• Timing your day: Expect crowds; carry water and plan your route.
• Etiquette: Wear white with a red scarf; respect barriers, routes and local signage.
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