First-Timer’s Guide to the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona

​In July, the city of Pamplona, Spain bursts to life as thousands of people flock to the area of the infamous Spanish festival, San Fermin or also known as The Running of the Bulls. Starting on July 6th with the Opening Ceremony and ending on July 14 with the Closing Ceremony; the festival itself has become an integral part of Bucket Lists and Once in a Lifetime trips. Whether you are visiting to take in the tradition and culture, or to run with the bulls, here are some tips to make sure that you have a wonderful experience!

Runners gather before San Fermin's most famous event, the Running of the Bulls

A Festival with History

​The San Fermin festival is really popular worldwide, but historically the tradition of the Fiesta dates all the way back to the 16th Century.  Way back then, bulls were herded into the city for practical matters, but over time that practice transformed into what is now known at the San Fermin Festival. Aside from the spectacle of it, the Fiesta was also created to Honor the Patron Saint, Saint San Fermin. Today, though a lot of people travel for the spectacle, it still honors the Saint and is a non stop celebration in his memory.

Inside the Bull Run

​At 8:00 a.m. each morning of the fiesta, six bulls race nearly a kilometer through Pamplona’s narrow streets ending in Plaza DeToros where the bullfight occurs each night of the fiesta. Runners line up early, choosing their spot along the course, many of which choose Estafeta street, as it is suggested and popular with first time runners. When the two rockets fire, signaling the bulls have been released, the chaos begins and the runners start running while people line the streets and watch/cheer from balconies above.  Safety is crucial: runners should focus on moving with the flow and knowing when to step aside. Although the run is short, it can be very dangerous and you can read more about the safety protocol here.

Tips for Enjoying San Fermin

​While the run may be the reason you travel for the fiesta, the fiesta has so much more to offer. And it's important to plan ahead so you can enjoy all the fiesta has to offer! Running of the Bulls can help you make sure you get your ideal trip and don’t miss any key events. Here are some other tips that can help you plan your trip:

Book Early

​Hotels, balconies, and bullfight tickets sell out months in advance. Planning ahead is key to get the best of the best accommodations. 

Dress the Part

White clothes with a red sash and scarf are the festival’s trademark look, and unless you want to stand out, you may want to bring these colors along, or you can even purchase a package here.

Expect Crowds

​Over 1 million people travel to the small city of Pamplona, so the crowds are massive, so it is important to stick together and explore carefully.

Plan Meals

​Restaurants fill up quickly, as locals and travelers alike have to eat.  Reservations make dining far easier during festival week.

Skip the Car

​Pamplona becomes more pedestrian-friendly during San Fermin, compared to the U.S where everything is more automobile friendly. Parking is very limited and most areas to visit do not have parking spots available because of the road closures so it is best to use public transit or hotel shuttles instead.

See the Bullfights

​Each evening of the Fiesta, the Plaza de Toros hosts bullfights, a central tradition of the festival. Tickets sell fast, so secure them early in order to get the best seats!

Have Fun and Experience it all

​From fireworks to parades to running of the bulls and live music, the party never really stops so make sure you take the time to take it all in and enjoy everything the fiesta has to offer!

Plan Your Trip with Ease

​San Fermin can feel super overwhelming for first-time travelers, but with the right planning, it’s the experience of a lifetime. At Running of the Bulls, we make it simple with resources, insider information, and easy access to tickets, balconies, and packages. If you want to get the most out of your trip we highly recommend purchasing a San Fermin Travel Package which includes accommodations, tickets to events, dinner, and more!

​This year could be the year you check Running of the Bulls off of your bucket list! Start planning your trip today and get ready for the experience of a lifetime!