Running of the Bulls in Pamplona | San Fermin | Spanish Fiestas 8. Plaza de Toros 9. Plaza del Castillo A third rocket is set off once all the bulls have entered the bullring and the fourth, and final, rocket means that the bulls are now in the bullpen and the bullrun has finished. The vast number of people taking part in the bullrun nowadays adds to the already considerable danger of running alongside wild bulls weighing in the region of 700kg each. A word of warning … With the drinks flowing and the party in full swing you could be forgiven for forgetting that running the bulls is an extremely dangerous activity. Under no circumstances should you even consider running if you’re intoxicated. Not only are drunken people a risk to themselves they are also a risk to everyone else. There are plenty security guards and first aid personnel but there is little they can do during the running of the bulls such that 15 people have died and over 200 been seriously injured since 1924.

Watching the Bullrunning Street: You can stand behind the fences that mark the route of the bullrun but you need to arrive by around 6.30am to get the best spots on the top of the fence directly overlooking the run. Another good spot is in front of the museum on c/ Santo Domingo where there isn’t a fence but the best spots here are usually taken before 6am leaving you with a cold two hour wait before the run starts. Private Balconies: A great alternative is to get yourself onto a balcony overlooking the bullrun. You might be lucky enough to meet someone who invites you onto their terrace, alternatively, ask in the tourist information office (c/ Esclava, 1). Plaza de Toros: Your only other options are to go to the bullring and watch the end as the bulls (and some terrified runners) arrive in the arena. Alternatively, you could head for a bar and watch the bull run which is shown live every morning on national TV. Take a look at this incredible video produced by Spanish TV (RTVE) on 13th July 2013.

It portrays all the tension and excitement of the bullrun culminating in horrific scenes at the entrance to the bullring where some runners had fallen which led to a major crush that blocked the entrance of the bulls. More injuries resulted that day than for many years. Watching the Bullfights On every evening of the fiesta beginning at 6.30pm on 7th July there is a bullfight in the Pamplona bullring. Tickets for the bullfights are sold out well in advance as the arena only holds 12,500 people. Every evening after the day’s bullfight some tickets go on sale for the next evening’s event at the ‘taquillas’ at the bull ring. You’ll usually find ticket touts operating around the Plaza de Toros during the day and before the bullfight selling at elevated prices. Getting to Pamplona Whilst there are no international flights into Pamplona Airport, you can fly to Madrid or Barcelona (seasonal) then take a connecting domestic service to get there. The airport is only 6km from the city centre. There are regular train services from Barcelona, Madrid and San Sebastian to Pamplona as well as frequent bus services.

For more detailed information on how to get to Pamplona take a look at our comprehensive Pamplona Travel Guide . Where to Stay in Pamplona The city of Pamplona simply isn’t big enough to accommodate the vast number of people who flock there during Sanfermines. It’s more or less impossible to book Pamplona Hotels at short notice so if you want the comfort of a hotel bed you should consider booking many months in advance. Similary budget accommodation in hostels gets fully booked a long time before the event so planning your visit some time ahead is crucial. My personal preference is to book a place on the campsite in Pamplona which lies about 7km from the city centre. Whilst it is also packed throughout the week of the fiestas they do take security seriously and offer bus transport in and out of town. The free campsite that appears near the Ezcaba campsite during the fiestas is another option but isn’t recommended for security reasons as petty crime is rife during San Fermin.

Similarly sleeping in parks along with many others should be avoided for the same reason An alternative to staying in Pamplona is to book a hotel in San Sebastian , Vitoria-Gasteiz or Estella and make the early morning trip to the bull run from there. The trouble is that getting public transport early enough in the morning to see the bullrun can prove impossible so this option is only really viable if you have your own vehicle. Frequently Asked Questions Every year in the run-up to San Fermín we receive the same questions about the fiestas. Here they are together with answers: How Much Does it Cost to Run with the Bulls? Whilst this does come as a surprise to many people who ask this question, there is no need to pay to run the bulls or even register for that matter. All you have to do is head for Plaza Consistorial near the start of the route preferably before 7am. Don’t turn up just before 8am as you’ll be too late to get a spot and don’t wait along Calle Estafeta as the police will clear everyone off this street before the bullrun commences. Can Women Run With The Bulls?

Yes, there is nothing to stop women from participating although they tend to be very few in numbers. It’s very rare to see any Spanish females running, the majority normally seem to be Aussies. The Navarra Tourist Board website is a handy resource for tourism information in this part of Spain. Pamplona running of bulls 2014 festival | Metro UK Annual madness that is Pamplona running of the bulls 2014 begins Monday 7 Jul 2014 10:07 am People cheer after hearing the midday Chupinazo rocket announcing the start of the San Fermin festival in Pamplona July 6, 2014. . REUTERS/Stringer The fiestas of San Fermin are celebrated in Irunea/Pamplona, in the region of Navarra, every year from 6th to 14th July. They have become internationally known for the running of the bulls, where brave/foolish runners are chased by the animals through the streets of the old quarter as far as the bull ring. Originally a celebration of religion, this aspect has now taken on a secondary role over the years.

Nowadays, the fiestas are seen as a mass gathering of people from all the corners of the world. The Encierro, or running of the bulls, is the event at the heart of the Sanfermines and makes the fiesta a spectacle without compare anywhere else in the world. It was born from need, getting the bulls from outside the city into the bullring. Starting at the corral in Calle Santo Domingo, the bulls charge behind the runners for 825m. The run usually lasts between three and four minutes – although it has sometimes taken over ten minutes, especially if one of the bulls has been isolated from his companions. PAMPLONA, SPAIN – JULY 07: Revellers run with Torrestrella’s fighting bulls along the Calle Estafeta during the second day of the San Fermin Running Of The Bulls festival on July 7, 2014 in Pamplona, Spain. The annual Fiesta de San Fermin, made famous by the 1926 novel of US writer Ernest Hemmingway ‘The Sun Also Rises’, involves the running of the bulls through the historic heart of Pamplona.

(Photo by Pablo Blazquez Dominguez/Getty Images) People cheer after hearing the midday Chupinazo rocket announcing the start of the San Fermin festival in Pamplona July 6, 2014. . REUTERS/Stringer PAMPLONA, SPAIN – JULY 06: A woman joins in with the party atmosphere during the opening and the firing of the ‘Chupinazo’ rocket which starts the 2014 Festival of the San Fermin Running of the Bulls on July 6, 2014 in Pamplona, Spain. The annual Fiesta de San Fermin, made famous by the 1926 novel of US writer Ernest Hemmingway entitled ‘The Sun Also Rises’, involves the daily running of the bulls through the historic heart of Pamplona to the bull ring. (Photo by Pablo Blazquez Dominguez/Getty Images) Participants run in front of Torrestrella’s bulls during the first bull-run of the San Fermin Festival, on July 7, 2014, in Pamplona, northern Spain. The festival is a symbol of Spanish culture that attracts thousands of tourists to watch the bull runs despite heavy condemnation from animal rights groups.

AFP PHOTO / ANDER GILLENEAANDER GILLENEA/AFP/Getty Images Revelers run with Torrestrella ranch fighting bulls during the running of the bulls of the San Fermin festival, in Pamplona, Spain, Monday, July 7, 2014. Revelers from around the world arrive in Pamplona every year to take part on some of the eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway’s 1926 novel “The Sun Also Rises.” (AP Photo/Daniel Ochoa de Olza) Revelers pack the town hall square during the launch of the ‘Chupinazo’ rocket, to celebrate the official opening of the 2014 San Fermin fiestas, in Pamplona, Spain, Sunday, July 6, 2014.

Revelers from around the world kick off the festival with a messy party in the Pamplona town square, one day before the first of eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway’s 1926 novel “The Sun Also Rises.” (AP Photo/Daniel Ochoa de Olza) A reveler jumps from a fountain onto the crowd below, after the launch of the ‘Chupinazo’ rocket, to celebrate the official opening of the 2014 San Fermin fiestas in Pamplona, Spain, Sunday, July 6, 2014. Revelers from around the world turned out here to kick off the festival with a messy party in the Pamplona town square, one day before the first of eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway’s 1926 novel “The Sun Also Rises.” (AP Photo/Andres Kudacki) A girl has wine poured over her before the midday “Chupinazo” rocket announcing the start of the San Fermin festival in Pamplona July 6, 2014.

Tens of thousands of expectant party goers holding red scarves squeeze into the town hall to kick off 204 hours of music, dancing, drinking, bullfighting and for the brave or unwary, an 825 metre (902 yard) daily sprint in front of six fighting bulls known as the Running Of The Bulls. REUTERS/Joseba Etxaburu (SPAIN – Tags: SOCIETY) Revelers celebrate after the launch of the ‘Chupinazo’ rocket, to celebrate the official opening of the 2014 San Fermin fiestas, in Pamplona, Spain, Sunday, July 6, 2014.

Revelers from around the world kick off the festival with a messy party in the Pamplona town square, one day before the first of eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway’s 1926 novel “The Sun Also Rises.” (AP Photo/Daniel Ochoa de Olza) PAMPLONA, SPAIN – JULY 06: Revelers cheer before the launch of the “Chupinazo” rocket, which is set off to announce the start of the Fiesta of San Fermin, during the celebration of the opening day of the Fiesta of San Fermin 2014 in front of the Town Hall of Pamplona, Spain, on July 6, 2014. The annual nine day long fiestas of San Fermin are celebrated in Pamplona, in the region of Navarra, every year from the 6th to the 14th of July.

(Photo by Evrim Aydin/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images) A reveler jumps from a fountain onto the crowd below minutes after the ‘Chupinazo’ rocket, while celebrating the official opening of the 2014 San Fermin fiestas, in Pamplona, Spain, Sunday, July 6, 2014. Revelers from around the world kick off the festival with a messy party in the Pamplona town square, one day before the first of eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway’s 1926 novel “The Sun Also Rises.” (AP Photo/Daniel Ochoa de Olza) A reveller is soaked with water following the midday “Chupinazo” rocket announcing the start of the San Fermin festival in Pamplona July 6, 2014.

Tens of thousands of expectant party goers holding red scarves squeeze into the town hall to kick off 204 hours of music, dancing, drinking, bullfighting and for the brave or unwary, an 825-metre (902-yard) daily sprint in front of six fighting bulls known as the Running Of The Bulls. REUTERS/Eloy Alonso (SPAIN – Tags: SOCIETY) Revellers are drenched with water thrown from a balcony following the midday Chupinazo rocket announcing the start of the San Fermin festival in Pamplona July 6, 2014. Tens of thousands of expectant party goers holding red scarves squeeze into the town hall to kick off 204 hours of music, dancing, drinking, bullfighting and for the brave or unwary, an 825 metre (902 yard) daily sprint in front of six fighting bulls known as the Running Of The Bulls.

REUTERS/JOSEBA ETXABURU (SPAIN – Tags: SOCIETY) PAMPLONA, SPAIN – JULY 06: Revelers hold up traditional red neckties during the launch of the “Chupinazo” rocket, which is set off to announce the start of the Fiesta of San Fermin, during the celebration of the opening day of the Fiesta of San Fermin 2014 in front of the Town Hall of Pamplona, Spain, on July 6, 2014. The annual nine day long fiestas of San Fermin are celebrated in Pamplona, in the region of Navarra, every year from the 6th to the 14th of July.

(Photo by Evrim Aydin/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images) PAMPLONA, SPAIN – JULY 06: Revelers cheer before the launch of the “Chupinazo” rocket, which is set off to announce the start of the Fiesta of San Fermin, during the celebration of the opening day of the Fiesta of San Fermin 2014 in front of the Town Hall of Pamplona, Spain, on July 6, 2014. The annual nine day long fiestas of San Fermin are celebrated in Pamplona, in the region of Navarra, every year from the 6th to the 14th of July. (Photo by Evrim Aydin/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images) epa04303297 Two ‘mozos’ or runners fall during the first bull run of the 2014 Sanfermines in Pamplona, Spain, 07 July 2014. The bullrun was a two minute and a half race in whith at least one mozo has been gored by one of the bulls.

EPA/JESUS DIGES epa04303304 Bulls run after the ‘mozos’ or runners during the first bullrun of the 2014 Sanfermines in Pamplona, Spain, 07 July 2014. The bullrun was a two minute and a half race in which at least one mozo has been gored by one of the bulls. EPA/JOSU SANTESTEBAN Two ''Torrestrella'' fighting bulls fall on Estafeta corner during the running of the bulls at the San Fermin festival, in Pamplona, Spain, Monday, July 7, 2014. Revelers from around the world arrive to Pamplona every year to take part in some of the eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel "The Sun Also Rises". (AP Photo/Alvaro Barrientos) Medical assistants help a participant injured during the running of the bulls with ”Torrestrella” fighting bulls, at the San Fermin festival, in Pamplona, Spain, Monday, July 7, 2014.

Revelers from around the world arrive to Pamplona every year to take part in some of the eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway’s 1926 novel “The Sun Also Rises”. (AP Photo/Alvaro Barrientos) A Torrestrella fighting bull runs over fallen runners at the entrance to the bullring during the first running of the bulls of the San Fermin festival in Pamplona July 7, 2014. Four people were hospitalised on Monday on the first day of Spain’s San Fermin bull run, a daily race through the narrow, cobbled streets of Pamplona that forms part of the northern city’s week-long festival. One runner was gored in the thigh while the other three suffered fractures during the race against five bulls which lasted 2 minutes and 25 seconds, according to the Red Cross.

REUTERS/Joseba Etxaburu (SPAIN – Tags: SOCIETY ANIMALS) epa04303327 Bulls run across the Mercaderes curve after the ‘mozos’ or runners during the first bullrun of the 2014 Sanfermines in Pamplona, Spain, 07 July 2014. The bullrun was a two minute and a half race in which at least one mozo has been gored by one of the bulls. EPA/VILLAR LOPEZ Revelers run in front of ”Torrestrella” fighting bulls on Estafeta corner during the running of the bulls at the San Fermin festival, in Pamplona, Spain, Monday, July 7, 2014. Revelers from around the world arrive to Pamplona every year to take part in some of the eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway’s 1926 novel “The Sun Also Rises”.

(AP Photo/Alvaro Barrientos) Revelers throws empty wine bottles to fill up a balcony during the launch of the ‘Chupinazo’ rocket, to celebrate the official opening of the 2014 San Fermin fiestas, in Pamplona, Spain, Sunday, July 6, 2014. Revelers from around the world kick off the festival with a messy party in the Pamplona town square, one day before the first of eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway’s 1926 novel “The Sun Also Rises.” (AP Photo/Daniel Ochoa de Olza) A Torrestrella’s bull falls during the first bull-run of the San Fermin Festival, on July 7, 2014, in Pamplona, northern Spain. The festival is a symbol of Spanish culture that attracts thousands of tourists to watch the bull runs despite heavy condemnation from animal rights groups.

AFP PHOTO / ANDER GILLENEAANDER GILLENEA/AFP/Getty Images Participants run in front of Torrestrella’s bulls during the first bull-run of the San Fermin Festival, on July 7, 2014, in Pamplona, northern Spain. The festival is a symbol of Spanish culture that attracts thousands of tourists to watch the bull runs despite heavy condemnation from animal rights groups. AFP PHOTO / PEDRO ARMESTREPEDRO ARMESTRE/AFP/Getty Images PAMPLONA, SPAIN – JULY 06: A band plays music during the opening and the firing of the ‘Chupinazo’ rocket which starts the 2014 Festival of the San Fermin Running of the Bulls on July 6, 2014 in Pamplona, Spain. The annual Fiesta de San Fermin, made famous by the 1926 novel of US writer Ernest Hemmingway entitled ‘The Sun Also Rises’, involves the daily running of the bulls through the historic heart of Pamplona to the bull ring.

(Photo by Pablo Blazquez Dominguez/Getty Images) PAMPLONA, SPAIN – JULY 06: A protest banner reading ‘Freedom Basque prisioners and exiles!’ is lifted while thousands of revellers sing and dance during the opening and the firing of the ‘Chupinazo’ rocket which starts the 2014 Festival of the San Fermin Running of the Bulls on July 6, 2014 in Pamplona, Spain. The annual Fiesta de San Fermin, made famous by the 1926 novel of US writer Ernest Hemmingway entitled ‘The Sun Also Rises’, involves the daily running of the bulls through the historic heart of Pamplona to the bull ring. (Photo by Pablo Blazquez Dominguez/Getty Images) PAMPLONA, SPAIN – JULY 07: A steer from the Ranch of Torrestrella runs above a runner entering the bullring during the second day of the San Fermin Running Of The Bulls festival, on July 7, 2014 in Pamplona, Spain.

The annual Fiesta de San Fermin, made famous by the 1926 novel of US writer Ernest Hemmingway 'The Sun Also Rises', involves the running of the bulls through the historic heart of Pamplona, (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images) PAMPLONA, SPAIN – JULY 07: Revellers run with Torrestrella’s fighting bulls along the Curva de Estafeta during the second day of the San Fermin Running Of The Bulls festival on July 7, 2014 in Pamplona, Spain. The annual Fiesta de San Fermin, made famous by the 1926 novel of US writer Ernest Hemmingway ‘The Sun Also Rises’, involves the running of the bulls through the historic heart of Pamplona. (Photo by Pablo Blazquez Dominguez/Getty Images) PAMPLONA, SPAIN – JULY 07: A reveller sleeps off the effects of the night before during the second day of the San Fermin Running Of The Bulls festival, on July 7, 2014 in Pamplona, Spain.

The annual Fiesta de San Fermin, made famous by the 1926 novel of US writer Ernest Hemmingway ‘The Sun Also Rises’, involves the running of the bulls through the historic heart of Pamplona, (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images) PAMPLONA, SPAIN – JULY 07: Revellers run with Torrestrella’s fighting bulls along the Calle Estafeta during the second day of the San Fermin Running Of The Bulls festival on July 7, 2014 in Pamplona, Spain. The annual Fiesta de San Fermin, made famous by the 1926 novel of US writer Ernest Hemmingway ‘The Sun Also Rises’, involves the running of the bulls through the historic heart of Pamplona. (Photo by Pablo Blazquez Dominguez/Getty Images) > Running of the Bulls | San Fermin | Festival San Fermin Pamplona Spain Running of the Bulls | San Fermin | San Fermin Pamplona Spain The fiestas of San Fermin are celebrated in Irunea/Pamplona, in the region of Navarra, every year from the 6th to the 14th of July.

They have become internationally known because of the running of the bulls, where the bulls are lead through the streets of the old quarter as far as the bull ring by runners. The fiestas are celebrated in honor of San Fermin, patron saint of Navarra, although the religious aspect would seem to have taken on a secondary role over the last number of years. Nowadays, the fiestas are seen as a mass gathering of people from all the corners of the world and where the partying, the fun and the joy of it all are the most outstanding ingredients. The Encierro ... The Running of the Bulls The Encierro is the event at the heart of the Sanfermines and makes the fiesta a spectacle that would be unimaginable in any other place in the world. It was born from need: getting the bulls from outside the city into the bullring. The encierro takes place from July 7th to 14th and starts at the corral in Calle Santo Domingo when the clock on the church of San Cernin strikes eight o"clock in the morning.

After the launching of two rockets, the bulls charge behind the runners for 825 metres, the distance between the corral and the bullring. The run usually lasts between three and four minutes although it has sometimes taken over ten minutes, especially if one of the bulls has been isolated from his companions. Chants to San Fermin The bull run has a particularly emotional prelude. It is when the runners, just a few metres up the slope from the corral where the bulls are waiting, raise their rolled newspapers and chant to an image of San Fermin placed in a small recess in the wall in the Cuesta de Santo Domingo. Against the strongest of silences, the following words can be heard: "A San Fermin pedimos, por ser nuestro patron, nos guie en el encierro dandonos su bendicion." (We ask San Fermin, being our patron saint, to guide us in the bull run and give us his blessing).

When they finish they shout "Viva San Fermin!, Gora San Fermin." This chant is sung three times before 8am first, then when there are five minutes to go before 8am, then three minutes and one minute before the gate of the corral is opened. Rockets in the bullring The third rocket, fired from the bullring, signals that all the bulls have entered the bullring. A fourth and final rocket indicates that all the bulls are safely in the corral located inside the bullring, and that the bull run has ended. A fence of 3,000 parts For security reasons, a double fence marks out the route of the bull run through the streets. It is made of over 3,000 wooden parts (planks, posts, gates, etc.). Part of the fence stays put throughout the fiesta but other sections are assembled and disassembled every day by a special brigade of workers. The role of the pastores A large number of pastores (bull "shepherds") cover the entire bull run. They place themselves behind the bulls, with their only protection being a long stick.

Their main role is to stop the odd idiot from inciting the bulls from behind, to avoid the bulls turning round and running backwards, and to help any bulls that have stopped or have been separated from their companions to continue running towards the bullring. The dobladores Other key people in the bull run are the dobladores, people with good bullfighting knowledge (sometimes ex-bullfighters) who take up position in the bullring with capes to help the runners "fan out" (in other words, run to the sides after they enter the bullring) and "drag" the bulls towards the corral as quickly as possible. The two groups of mansos (bullocks) The six fighting bulls that will take part in the evening bullfight start the run accompanied by an initial group of mansos, which act as "guides" to help the bulls cover the route. Two minutes after leaving the corral in Santo Domingo, a second group of bullocks (the so-called "sweep-up" group), which are slower and smaller than the first one, are let out to lead any bulls that might have stopped or been left behind in the bull run towards the bullring.

Useful information about the bull run The encierro is an unrepeatable experience for spectators and runners alike. It is a spectacle that is defined by the level of risk and the physical ability of the runners. An inexperienced runner should learn about the characteristics of this dangerous "race" (although it should not be considered as a race) before starting, and also about the protective measures to be taken for his/her own safety and that of the people running alongside. Not everyone can run the encierro. It requires cool nerves, quick reflexes and a good level of physical fitness. Anyone who does not have these three should not take part. It is a highly risky enterprise. Runners should start somewhere between the Plaza del Ayuntamiento (City Hall Square) and the pink-slab Education building in the Cuesta of Santo Domingo, and they should be there before 7:30am because entry to the run is closed from that time on. The rest of the run, except for the stretch mentioned above, must be completely clear of runners until a few minutes before 8am. What is not allowed in the bull run People under 18 years of age, who must not run or participate.

Crossing police barriers placed to ensure that the run goes off smoothly. Standing in areas and places along the route that have been expressly prohibited by the municipal police force. Before the bulls are released, waiting in corners, blind spots, doorways or in entrances to other establishments located along the run. Leaving doors of shops or entrances to apartments open along the route. The responsibility for ensuring these doors are closed lies with the owners or tenants of the properties. Being in the bull run while drunk, under the effects of drugs or in any other improper manner. Carrying objects that are unsuitable for the run to take place correctly. Wearing inappropriate clothes or footwear for the run. Inciting the bulls or attracting their attention in any manner, and for whatever reason, along the route of the run or in the bullring. Running backwards towards the bulls or running behind them. Holding, harassing or maltreating the bulls and stopping them from moving or being led to the pens in the bullring. Stopping along the run and staying on the fence, barriers or in doorways in such a way that the run or the safety of other runners is jeopardised. Taking photographs inside the run, or from the fences or barriers without due authorisation.

Carrying objects that are unsuitable for the good order and security of the bull run. Installing elements that invade horizontal, vertical or aerial space along the bull run, unless expressly authorised by the Mayor"s Office. Any other action that could hamper the bull run taking place normally. Pamplona Accommodation and San Fermin Tours for 2016 Current Tour Options Unavailable Annual running of the bulls begins in Spain, 1 gored - CNN.com Annual running of the bulls begins in Spain, 1 gored From Al Goodman, CNN Updated 9:11 PM ET, Sat July 7, 2012 Chat with us in Facebook Messenger. Find out what's happening in the world as it unfolds. Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – Participants run during the last day of the Running of the Bulls on Saturday, July 14, in Pamplona, Spain. The dangerous tradition has tallied thousands of injuries and 15 deaths since record-keeping began in 1924, including the fatal goring of a Spanish man in 2009.

Hide Caption 1 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – A wounded man is treated for a head injury after running with Torrehandilla Torreherberos fighting bulls on Saturday. Hide Caption 2 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – A man sleeps at the entrance of the bullring before the next run starts. Hide Caption Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – Spectators watch as a participant is hit by a bull Saturday. Hide Caption 4 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – Participants run in front of Don Juan Pedro Domecq's bulls, during the seventh bull run of the San Fermin festival, in the the Northern Spanish city of Pamplona, on Friday, July 13. Hide Caption 5 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – A bull takes down a runner after a San Fermin Festival bull run, on Friday, in Pamplona, northern Spain.

Hide Caption 6 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – Revelers run beside Don Juan Pedro Domecq fighting bulls at Curva Estafeta on Friday. Hide Caption 7 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – Participants run in front of Don Juan Pedro Domecq's bulls on Friday. Hide Caption 8 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – A reveler leans against the fence next to a painting of San Fermin in Curva Estafeta before Friday's running-of-the-bulls. Hide Caption 9 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – Revelers run beside a Don Juan Pedro Domecq fighting bull on Friday at Curva Estafeta. Hide Caption 10 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – Revelers sing el cantico a San Fermin under the San Fermin statue on la cuesta de Santo Domingo on Friday.

Hide Caption 11 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – People take pictures as participants run by during the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain, on Friday, July 13. Hide Caption 12 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – A man is thrown by a bull during the sixth day of the running of the bulls at the San Fermin festival on Thursday, July 12. Hide Caption 13 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – A runner grabs the horn of a Victoriano del Rio fighting bull as they sprint toward the entrance to the bullring Thursday. Hide Caption 14 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – A participant in the running braces as a number of bulls pass close by on Thursday. Hide Caption 15 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – A bull jumps over revelers as others clear the way as the animals enter the bullring on Thursday.

Hide Caption 16 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – Scottish runners from Glasgow and Aberdeen wearing kilts walk through the streets of Pamplona before the sixth day of festivities Thursday morning. Hide Caption Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – One of the bulls tosses a runner on Wednesday, July 11. Hide Caption 18 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – Participants run through the entrance of the bullring Wednesday on the fifth day of the festivities. Hide Caption 19 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – Participants run in front of El Pilar bulls on the fourth day of the San Fermin festival on Tuesday, July 10. Hide Caption 20 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – Two couples kiss as they wait for the fourth bull run to begin Tuesday. Hide Caption 21 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – Revelers read the day's newspapers as they wait for Tuesday's events to begin.

Hide Caption 22 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – Thousands fill the streets and balconies along Estafeta Street during the San Fermin festivities Monday. Hide Caption 23 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – A bull chases revelers on the third day of the annual Running of the Bulls. Hide Caption Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – Participants run along Estafeta Street in Pamplona on Sunday, July 8. Hide Caption 25 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – Revelers celebrate during the Pena Voladora parade on Estafeta Street on Saturday, July 7. Hide Caption Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – Participants seek safety during the first bull run on Saturday. Hide Caption 27 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – A man receives medical assistance after being injured during the first San Fermin Festival bull run.

Hide Caption 28 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – Participants run out of the way of Dolores Aguirre fighting bulls before entering the Estafeta corner. Hide Caption 29 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – People hold red handkerchiefs in the air during the opening ceremony Friday. The run in Pamplona started 400 years ago. Hide Caption 30 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – A participant gulps sangria Friday during the Chupinazo, which marks the first day of the annual event. Hide Caption 31 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – A reveler jumps from a fountain into the crowd at Plaza de Navarreria during the Chupinazo. Hide Caption 32 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – People try to escape the horns and hooves of the bulls on Saturday.

Hide Caption 33 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – The eight-day festival became popular worldwide after author Ernest Hemingway wrote about it in his 1920s book "The Sun Also Rises." Hide Caption Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – Runners push past each other to escape the bulls. Hide Caption 35 of 36 Photos: Photos: Running of the bulls Running of the bulls – A runner rests on a bench on the first day of the festival. Hide Caption The Best Festivals in Spain Home » Top Festivals in Spain – Your passport to fun! Top Festivals in Spain – Your passport to fun! Festivals in Spain – The Tenerife Carnivals The Best Carnivals, Fiestas and Festivals in Spain Spanish people are known all over the world for their love of partying and enjoying themselves to the fullest and they certainly know how to put on a good display when it comes to festivals in Spain. Spanish festivals take place in almost every city, towns and village throughout Spain at some point during the year.

Some of the best festivals and fiestas in Spain have deep religious and historical meaning to the locals while others are simply meant for partying and having fun. The following are among the best festivals in Spain. 1) La Tomatina This festival is held on the last Wednesday of August each year in Bunol in the region of Valencia . The Tomatina is a festival where tons of overripe tomatoes are thrown in the streets for around one hour. It is typically a war where people throw ripe squashed tomatoes at each other which leave the participants and the towns main square dripping with bright red tomato juice. The funniest part is that there are no winners as people just do this for fun and to enjoy themselves. You simply have to grab ripe tomatoes and throw them at anyone running, bending down, standing still, or moving. The main rule of the La Tomatina festival is that you have to squash the tomatoes before you can throw them at somebody else. 2) Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife One of the most famous colourful festivals in Spain are the carnivals of Santa Cruz de Tenerife held during the month of February of each year.

The carnival resembles those held in Brazil and features parades with floats and bands who perform different types of songs during the street parades. The colours and costumes worn during this festival are stunning and are a delight to see. The parades move through the streets with energetic musical groups and well-dressed performers. The most beautiful scene of this festival is the parade of pretty, well-dressed ladies who enchant viewers with their dance moves. The colourful costumes can weigh over a 100 kilos, and they can take takes months to make and practice in for the street parades. 3) San Fermin Fiestas Pamplona This festival takes place from July 6th to the 14th each year. It is a festival that brings the party to every corner of the city of Pamplona. The festival starts by setting off the pyrotechnic Chupinazo from the mayor’s balcony. The celebration is fun, full of dance, song and location of the famous running with the bulls which takes place each day during the week long festivities. The bull running run starts from the Plaza Santo Domingo and winds through the ancient streets of Pamplona ending at the bullring.

This is one of the most popular festivals and fiestas of Spain and the most represented by visitors from all over the world seeking the undeniable rush you get from being chased by an angry bull. 4) Semana Santa The Semana Santa holy week is among the most important festivals in Spain. It is a religious celebration among the Catholics who mourn the final days of Christ on Earth and at the same time sympathize with the grief of the Virgin Mary. It is held on the week leading to Easter Sunday. Throughout the entire week, processions consisting of big floats are usually paraded all over the streets. The climax of the celebrations is the procession of Good Friday whereby the floats leave the churches in the middle of the night and they are carried throughout the night to their final destination: the cathedral. 5) San Juan If your into an all night beach parties then the annual San Juan fiesta are for you. It is held on the 24th June each year up and down the coastal areas of Spain most notably in Andalucia where the warm temperature makes for a perfect all night party. This ancient pagan festival is now legendary for its all night long beach party which includes music, dance and fun is had by all.

The night is all about fire and water and it where young and old congregate to build fires and enjoy the shortest night of the year. According to tradition to be cleansed and purified you musts jump over the fires three times. 6) Sonar Music Festival of Barcelona Some 80,000 visitors each year make it to this prestigious festival to take in the splendour of multimedia arts and concert exhibitions. The main celebrations of the Sonar Music Festival are held around the Raval District where tourists can visit the Museum of Modern Art and the Contemporary Culture Centre. Music lovers from all over Spain and Europe flock to this impressive music festival where the big international acts, underground and experimental artists get a chance to share the same platform. 7) Granada’s Ham and Water Festival Granada has some of the best cured ham in Spain as well as one of the best foody festivals you will find in Spain. The ham and pure water from the natural springs of Alpujarras provide two key ingredients for celebrating Saint John the Baptist’s Day. Water buckets, hose pipes and water guns get blazing at the stroke of midnight. Anyone who crosses the path of water is drenched during a day of almost fanatical water fights.

The night is celebrated with copious amounts of locally brewed beer and wine as well as large chunks of the finest local ham. 8) San Isidro Madrid’s free pass to drink and fun is granted in the month of May when the whole city celebrates its patron saint. During the day, the city dwellers are normally engrossed in live music concerts in city squares, which later culminate in drinking frenzies that take up the night. Spain Festivals | Top 10 Best Festivals in Spain Top 10 Best Festivals in Spain Guide to Festivals in Spain Video The best way to experience the Spanish culture and traditions is to participate a fiesta (festival) in the company of colourful nights with fireworks, carnival dancers in great costumes, bull running etc. f you want to eat, drink and dance then fiestas in Spain are the perfect combination. There are a lot of festivals in Spain regarding every region and community. You may decide and get information about the festivals on your Spain holidays schedule from the Tourism Offices. Below are the Top 10 Best Festivals in Spain.

San Fermï¿½n fiestas & running of the bulls in Pamplona 6-14 July (annual) Pamplona has the world’s biggest outdoor party from 6 to 14th of July that thousands congregate the city for the San Fermï¿½n fiestas (Fiesta de San Fermï¿½n) and the running of the bulls. The intensity and frenzied nature of this wild, round-the-lock festival of food, wine and dance attracts many visitors from all over the world. Las Fallas Festival in Valencia 15-19 March (annual) The Spanish are experts at putting on excessive and city-wide festivals and other parties, and Valencia is famous for its annual "Las Fallas" festival in Valencia, which is a raucous, smoke-filled event jam-packed with as many fire and firework-based displays as possible. [Read More] La Tomatina, Tomato Fight Festival in Valencia On the last Wednesday of August (annual) La Tomatina Festival is a popular and fantastic fiesta that include street battle where people throw tomatoes at one another. The festival is held at the town of Bunol, near Valencia.

Semana Santa in Seville & Malaga, Andalucia On the week leading up to Easter Sunday (annual) Semana Santa (Holy Week) is one of the most significant festivals of the year in Andalucia. The religious celebrations in Seville with the pasos (floats) bearing the most revered images of Jesï¿½s El Gran Poder, Triana and La Macarena are spectacular. Carnival Tenerife in Tenerife, Canary Islands February (annual) Tenerife Carnivals are the best after those of Rio de Janeiro. Tenerife Carnival goes for 27 days take place during February and all the islanders gather together during these annual festivities. The main celebrations take place in Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the areas near the port where people dance to the sound of the best Salsa groups. Castellers - La Mercï¿½ Festival in Barcelona 24 September (annual) La Mercï¿½ Festival (Castellers – The Human Towers of La Merce) is the townspeople’s festival par-excellence. During the week of the 24th of September, the festivity of Our Lady of Mercy, there are wonderful and numerous activities that are being held.

[Read More] Fiesta San Isidro in Madrid 2-15 May (annual) The festivities are centered on 2nd May and they are a foretaste of the outdoor dances and spectacles to come on 15th May, the feast day of Madrid’s patron saint, San Isidro. An outdoor pilgrimage (romerï¿½a) sees thousands of people gathering at St. Isidore’s Hermitage Chapel and meadow, as well as the holding of the world’s most important bullfight festival. Sant Joan Festival in Menorca, Balearic Islands 23-24 June (annual) The single most outstanding event in the Balearic festive calendar is the Sant Joan Fiesta (St. John’s Day) in Ciutadella town of Menorca is the most fascinating festival in the Balearic Islands. This Menorcan fiesta par excellence is rank among the most colorful and eye-catching of all those held in Spain. The summer feast days celebrated in Menorca star horses and riders in the leading role.

Feria de Abril in Seville, Andalucia April (annual) Feria de Abril which is the April Fair is a popular colorful and outstanding annual festival of Seville. At midday, the fairgrounds are taken over by handsome horses and their riders, along with horse-drawn carriages for the traditional parade. During the evening, large tents are filled with music and dancing. St. John's Bonfires in Alicante, Costa Blanca 20 June (annual) Las Hogueras de San Juan (St. John's Bonfires)... In summer, Alicante’s streets fill with artistically contrived cardboard figures for the St. John’s Day in the company of fireworks. The bonfires, known as las Hogueras shows the life of the city while its streets become a permanent source of entertainment with barracas (makeshift booths), parades and lively processions. Frequently Asked Questions about Running of the Bulls-Bucket List Events Frequently Asked Questions about Running of the Bulls 1) What is the San Fermin Festival ? The fiestas of San Fermin are celebrated in Irunea/Pamplona, in the region of Navarra.

They have become internationally known because of the running of the bulls, where the bulls are lead through the streets of the old quarter as far as the bull ring by runners. The fiestas are celebrated in honor of San Fermin, patron saint of Navarra, although the religious aspect would seem to have taken on a secondary role over the last number of years. Nowadays, the fiestas are seen as a mass gathering of people from all the corners of the world and where the partying, the fun and the joy of it all are the most outstanding ingredients. 2) Where is Pamplona ? How do I get there? Pamplona is about 50 miles from the Pyrenees Mountains and the Spanish-French border and around 250 miles north of Madrid. Pamplona has an airport with daily flights from Madrid, Barcelona, and Lisbon. Train travel from Barcelona, Madrid and San Sebastian are also very convenient to arrive in Pamplona. Please refer to for information on Spain’s national train service. 3) When does the San Fermin Festival take place? The dates of the San Fermin Festival are the same every year, no matter the day of the week.

The festival begins on July 6th and concludes on July 14th. 4) What’s the average age of Bucket List Events clients? Hard question to answer, but most of our clients are between the ages of 20-65. But it varies with each group. We’ve had guests that are 60+ years of age as well as kids with their families and college students. We don’t have an age limit; you just have to be ready to have a good time! 5) Where is the Bucket List Events balcony located on the Bull Run? Our main balcony is located on Calle Estafeta 57 – it overlooks the longest stretch of the bull run route. It is easy to find because we will walk you from your hotel to our apartment where you will be served breakfast and have access to an open bar. We do offer other locations upon request. 6) Does your balcony space fill up? Yes! We accept only a small and exact number of people to watch from our balcony and share breakfast with us each morning. We want everyone to be able to see the run easily. Therefore, we suggest that you reserve your space as soon as possible.

7) Can I buy an extra day for a spot on the balcony? Yes, all of our tours include one morning to watch the run on our Balcony, and additional mornings on the balcony can be purchased based on availability. Package clients can purchase these at a discounted rate, just ask! Click here to check out more about the views and info on our VIP balcony. 8) Why is the opening weekend more expensive? Regardless of the day of the week the festival begins, the first 48 hours of the San Fermin celebration will be the most attended and boisterous days of the week. Hotel rooms are in higher demand and acquired at higher rates. There is also a one-time event called the Chupinazo, which is an extremely popular event. We host an open house at our balcony to watch some of the debauchery during the opening day. Join in the march or watch the action from a Bucket List Events Private balcony overlooking the Chupinazo Stretch! 9) What happens at the Opening Ceremony (Chupinazo) on July 6th?

At 12:00 noon every July 6th, the square in front of the Town Hall witnesses chaos when the start of the San Fermín Fiesta is marked by a rocket launch. All morning, crowds pack in like sardines at the Plaza Ayuntamiento. The Mayor and members of the Council step out onto the balconies of the Town Hall to greet the crowds. There is an announcement: “Pamploneses, Pamplonesas, Viva San Fermin! Gora San Fermin!” (people of Pamplona, long live San Fermin!). The crowd responds with cries of “Viva!” and “Gora!” The square erupts as hundreds of bottles of champagne are uncorked and sprayed all over the crowd. During the day you can expect atmospheric singing, dancing, plenty of sangria and non-stop partying in the streets. Participants running with the bulls through the streets of Pamplona, Spain 10) What made Bucket List Events choose the hotel that is part of each package? It’s been a fine tuned process that we believe is the best of both worlds. Hotels located within the party areas are often congested and sleep is hard to find.

Our 4-Star hotel, the AC Cuidad, is a Marriott property located less than a mile away from the heart of the festivities, but far enough away that uninterrupted slumber is obtainable. 11) What is the drinking age in Spain? 18 years old. Cheers! Spaniards love to celebrate with a glass (or two) of their country’s many wine varietals. 12) Do we have to dress up in the traditional white attire and red accessories? This is not just for the participants in the run; everyone is wearing this, male and female. . The official San Fermin costume is a white shirt, white pants/skirt, a red sash, and a red neck-scarf. 13) Where can we purchase the attire? There is a shop on every corner selling the traditional clothing articles. 14) How many people attend the San Fermin Festival? Each year, the city hosts 1,000,000 participants over the week. 15) How many times do they do the Running of the Bulls? There are 8 runs, beginning July 7th and concluding on July 14th. Each run begins at 8 AM.

16) What are the bull fights like? A traditional Spanish bull fight is part of your package, but we would like to set the correct expectation. The bulls do die during the fight, and the scene isn’t always well received by everyone. These events are deeply rooted in Spanish culture, and the crowd is traditionally boisterous and have a good time. Crowds overlooking the Running of the Bulls 17) I don’t speak Spanish. Will this be a problem? Unlikely, but we do have guides that are fluent to help with your planning and navigating through the city, especially ordering food! 18) What food is served at the San Fermin Festival? Expect to eat a healthy dose of tapas, paella, and fish. Traditional Spanish fare 19) How is the bathroom situation during the festival? With the increased population during the festival, the city brings in mobile restrooms that are stationed throughout the city. Taking in the evening fireworks 20) What time do the daily festivities end? This is a tricky question to give an exact answer considering the cars and clubs stay open all night. In regards to actual scheduled activities, the run begins at 8 AM and the night capping public fireworks are at 11 PM.

There are concerts beginning at midnight each night on stages set up around the old town. 21) When should I buy my train ticket? Train travel during the festival is extremely busy and we advise you book tickets in advance to ensure a seat. The train journey between Madrid and Pamplona is about 3 and ½ hours and is 4 hours by car. The train journey between Barcelona and Pamplona is about 6 hours. You can book your RENFE tickets 60 days in advance. Gallery: Running of the bulls event the San Fermín festival begins in Pamplona, Spain – 6th July 2013 | Metro UK Gallery: San Fermín festival, famous for running of the bulls, begins in Pamplona, Spain Saturday 6 Jul 2013 5:26 pm The San Fermín festival in Pamplona, Spain – most famous for the ‘running of the bulls’ race that goes through the centre of the city – has begun. The eight-day event runs from July 6th to July 14th every year, drawing thousands of tourists from around the world.

The start of this year’s event was delayed by nearly 20 minutes when a huge Basque flag was hoisted between two buildings on either side of the city’s Plaza Consistorial square. The mayor refused to begin the festivities until the flag had been removed because it is not the official flag of Pamplona – although the city is technically situated in the Navarre region, part of the traditional Basque country in north-eastern Spain. Bull running Revelers hold up traditional red neckties during the launch of the 'Chupinazo' rocket, to celebrate the official opening of the 2013 San Fermin fiestas, Saturday, July 6, 2013 in Pamplona, Spain.

Revelers from around the world kick off the festival with a messy party in the Pamplona town square, one day before the first of eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel "The Sun Also Rises." (Picture: AP) Revelers hold up traditional red neckties during the launch of the 'Chupinazo' rocket, to celebrate the official opening of the 2013 San Fermin fiestas, Saturday, July 6, 2013 in Pamplona, Spain. Revelers from around the world kick off the festival with a messy party in the Pamplona town square, one day before the first of eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel "The Sun Also Rises." (Picture: AP) Bull running Revelers hold up traditional red neckties during the launch of the 'Chupinazo' rocket, to celebrate the official opening of the 2013 San Fermin fiestas, Saturday, July 6, 2013 in Pamplona, Spain.

Revelers from around the world kick off the festival with a messy party in the Pamplona town square, one day before the first of eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel "The Sun Also Rises." (Picture: AP) Revelers hold up traditional red neckties during the launch of the 'Chupinazo' rocket, to celebrate the official opening of the 2013 San Fermin fiestas, Saturday, July 6, 2013 in Pamplona, Spain. Revelers from around the world kick off the festival with a messy party in the Pamplona town square, one day before the first of eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel "The Sun Also Rises." (Picture: AP) Bull running Revelers hold up traditional red neckties during the launch of the 'Chupinazo' rocket, to celebrate the official opening of the 2013 San Fermin fiestas, Saturday, July 6, 2013 in Pamplona, Spain.

Revelers from around the world kick off the festival with a messy party in the Pamplona town square, one day before the first of eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel "The Sun Also Rises." (Picture: AP) Revelers hold up traditional red neckties during the launch of the 'Chupinazo' rocket, to celebrate the official opening of the 2013 San Fermin fiestas, Saturday, July 6, 2013 in Pamplona, Spain. Revelers from around the world kick off the festival with a messy party in the Pamplona town square, one day before the first of eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel "The Sun Also Rises." (Picture: AP) Bull running Revelers hold up traditional red neckties during the launch of the 'Chupinazo' rocket, to celebrate the official opening of the 2013 San Fermin fiestas, Saturday, July 6, 2013 in Pamplona, Spain.

Revelers from around the world kick off the festival with a messy party in the Pamplona town square, one day before the first of eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel "The Sun Also Rises." (Picture: AP) Revelers hold up traditional red neckties during the launch of the 'Chupinazo' rocket, to celebrate the official opening of the 2013 San Fermin fiestas, Saturday, July 6, 2013 in Pamplona, Spain. Revelers from around the world kick off the festival with a messy party in the Pamplona town square, one day before the first of eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel "The Sun Also Rises." (Picture: AP) Bull running Revelers sing as a band plays after the launch of the 'Chupinazo' rocket, to celebrate the official opening of the 2013 San Fermin fiestas, Saturday, July 6, 2013 in Pamplona, Spain.

Revelers from around the world kick off the San Fermin festival with a messy party in the Pamplona town square, one day before the first of eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel 'The Sun Also Rises'. (Picture: AP) Revelers sing as a band plays after the launch of the 'Chupinazo' rocket, to celebrate the official opening of the 2013 San Fermin fiestas, Saturday, July 6, 2013 in Pamplona, Spain. Revelers from around the world kick off the San Fermin festival with a messy party in the Pamplona town square, one day before the first of eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel 'The Sun Also Rises'. (Picture: AP) Bull running Revelers sing as a band plays after the launch of the 'Chupinazo' rocket, to celebrate the official opening of the 2013 San Fermin fiestas, Saturday, July 6, 2013 in Pamplona, Spain.

Revelers from around the world kick off the San Fermin festival with a messy party in the Pamplona town square, one day before the first of eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel 'The Sun Also Rises'. (Picture: AP) Revelers sing as a band plays after the launch of the 'Chupinazo' rocket, to celebrate the official opening of the 2013 San Fermin fiestas, Saturday, July 6, 2013 in Pamplona, Spain. Revelers from around the world kick off the San Fermin festival with a messy party in the Pamplona town square, one day before the first of eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel 'The Sun Also Rises'. (Picture: AP) Bull running Revellers gets soaked in water thrown from a balcony during the start of the San Fermin festival in Pamplona July 6, 2013.

The beginning of the festival, known as the Chupinazo, was postponed for 20 minutes while authorities removed a Basque flag hanging in front of the town hall. The annual San Fermin festival, famous for the running of the bulls event, started on Saturday and runs until July 14. (Picture: Reuters) Revellers gets soaked in water thrown from a balcony during the start of the San Fermin festival in Pamplona July 6, 2013. The beginning of the festival, known as the Chupinazo, was postponed for 20 minutes while authorities removed a Basque flag hanging in front of the town hall. The annual San Fermin festival, famous for the running of the bulls event, started on Saturday and runs until July 14. (Picture: Reuters) Bull running Revelers are sprayed with water thrown from balconies during the launch of the 'Chupinazo' rocket, to celebrate the official opening of the 2013 San Fermin fiestas, Saturday, July 6, 2013 in Pamplona, Spain.

Revelers from around the world kick off the San Fermin festival with a messy party in the Pamplona town square, one day before the first of eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel 'The Sun Also Rises'. (Picture: AP) Revelers are sprayed with water thrown from balconies during the launch of the 'Chupinazo' rocket, to celebrate the official opening of the 2013 San Fermin fiestas, Saturday, July 6, 2013 in Pamplona, Spain. Revelers from around the world kick off the San Fermin festival with a messy party in the Pamplona town square, one day before the first of eight days of the running of the bulls glorified by Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel 'The Sun Also Rises'.

(Picture: AP) For more News galleries click here > #Pamplona2015: Running of the Bulls Protest | PETA UK #Pamplona2015: Running of the Bulls Protest Action Centre #Pamplona2015: Running of the Bulls Protest © iStock.com/galdzer Every year, the streets of Pamplona, Spain, are stained red with the blood of terrified bulls. As part of the annual San Fermín festival, the bulls pursued through the city among a noisy, chaotic crowd – made up mostly of drunken tourists – at the infamous Running of the Bulls. The same animals – 48 of them – will later be stabbed to death in the city’s bullring. But for the last 14 years, something else has also been happening in Pamplona every July. Kind people from every corner of Spain as well as from many other countries have been coming together to speak out against the cruelty and take part in a hard-hitting demonstration that makes headlines all around the world. In fact, heading to Pamplona to protest has become a tradition in itself, and it’s a compassionate alternative to the gruesome “festivities” later in the week.

This year, we were in Pamplona again with Spanish group AnimaNaturalis making some noise for animals. More than 100 protesters lay in the street in front of the bullring, wearing little more than bodypaint, to create a “ river of blood ” to remind the world of how animals are massacred in the ring every year. A photo posted by PETA UK (@petauk) on Jul 4, 2015 at 12:28am PDT Amina from Denmark tells us why she’s come to Pamplona to protest against the cruel #RunningOfTheBulls today — PETA UK (@PETAUK) July 4, 2015 A reminder of why we’re here – this is what will happen to 48 bulls this week #Pamplona2015 pic.twitter.com/XtJW3gJ6gd — PETA UK (@PETAUK) July 4, 2015 This could be the vital first step towards abolishing the horrific Running of the Bulls.

pic.twitter.com/z47oha2WNB — PETA UK (@PETAUK) July 2, 2015 Highlights From Previous Years’ Protests See more here. Take Action More than 100 activists will be in Pamplona this weekend. But thousands more will be with us in spirit, and they all want to see an end to the barbaric slaughter of bulls at the San Fermín festival. Show your support and sign the petition asking the mayor of Pamplona to hold a public consultation on the future of bull runs.

Question: Which Spanish city is the scene of the annual bull-running from July 6 to 14th?
Answer: Pamplona