Every year from 6 to 14 July, the Spanish city of Pamplona erupts in one of the world’s most famous festivals: the Fiesta de San Fermín. Made internationally famous by Ernest Hemingway’s novel The Sun Also Rises, this nine-day celebration offers the legendary Running of the Bulls, spectacular fireworks, traditional music, dance and an atmosphere of pure infectious joy.
Free entry — the bull run and most outdoor events are free.
A festival with centuries-old roots
The Festival of San Fermín has its origins in medieval celebrations of Pamplona’s patron saint. The Running of the Bulls (Encierro) — where participants run before six fighting bulls through narrow streets — originated in the practical necessity of moving bulls from their pens to the arena.
What makes San Fermín unique
The Chupinazo opens the festival on 6 July at noon — a rocket fired from the Town Hall balcony signals the start and the packed square explodes in celebration. Every morning from 7–14 July at 8:00, six fighting bulls run the 875-metre course through the streets. Beyond the bulls, San Fermín is a festival of music, dance, food and drink, with peñas (social clubs) playing music day and night throughout the city.
Practical info
- Date: 6–14 July, annually in Pamplona, Spain
- Entry: bull run and outdoor events free; bullfights are paid
- Dress code: traditional white clothing with red scarf
- Safety: the bull run is dangerous — always follow official safety guidelines