! Spanish News Today – Discover San Fermin, the famous bull running festival in Pamplona, ​​Spain

When you think of bull running, the festival of San Fermín probably comes to mind

Here you will learn about the history of Sanfermín and why it is celebrated. You will also find out about the main events that take place during the week-long festivities, the traditional dress of the participants and the controversies surrounding animal welfare at the festival.

Why is San Fermín celebrated? History and tradition

The origins of the San Fermín festival date back to the Middle Ages. Originally, there were two different celebrations: one in honour of Saint Fermín, co-patron of the Navarre region where Pamplona is located, and another that included summer fairs. Over time, these two events merged and the running of the bulls became a central part.

According to legend, Saint Fermín was a Christian convert in the 3rd century and the first bishop of Pamplona. The celebration in his honour initially included religious ceremonies, but by the 14th century bullfighting and other secular activities had come to dominate the festivities. The modern format of the festival, with its iconic encierro, evolved over centuries to become the internationally renowned event it is today.

When is San Fermín celebrated in Spain?

San Fermín takes place every year from July 6 to 14. The festival begins with the “Chupinazo”, a ceremonial rocket launch from the balcony of the town hall on July 6, which signals the start of the festivities.

The following days are full of various events, including traditional dances, parades, music and street performances, and fireworks every night at 11pm. As with many Spanish festivals, there is plenty of eating and drinking at this event.

For many, the highlight of the festival (or low point, depending on who you ask) is undoubtedly the Encierro, which takes place every morning at 8am from July 7 to 14. Participants, dressed in traditional white clothing with red scarves and sashes around their waists, run alongside six fighting bulls through the narrow streets of Pamplona to the bullring.

The race is 825 metres (about half a mile) long and takes about three minutes, but the danger and excitement of being gored by a bull makes it seem much longer to participants.

In the afternoon, bullfights take place in the Plaza de Toros. Although controversial, these events are an important part of the festival’s history and attract large crowds.

What do people wear to San Fermín?

During the San Fermin celebrations, it is customary to wear white clothes, as it symbolizes purity, and red accessories, which are a reference to Saint Fermín, who is believed to have been martyred.

The traditional clothing includes a white shirt and white trousers, a red scarf around the neck and a red belt. The fact that almost everyone is wearing the same clothes is not only a real eye-catcher, but also conveys a feeling of unity and belonging, thus contributing to the festive atmosphere.

Criticism and controversy about animal cruelty

Although the Sanfermín festival is a beloved tradition for many, it also has its share of criticism. Animal rights activists have long condemned the event for the treatment of the bulls. The running of the bulls is inherently stressful and dangerous for the animals, and the subsequent bullfights in which the bulls are killed are considered cruel and inhumane.

Organisations such as PETA and other animal rights groups have launched a campaign against the festival, calling for an end to the bull runs and bullfights, arguing that the event glorifies animal cruelty and causes unnecessary suffering.

Despite these protests, the festival continues to enjoy widespread support, particularly among locals and those who consider it an essential part of Spanish culture and heritage.