The much celebrated festival of San Fermin, better known as Running of the Bulls outside Spain, is listed amongst some of the most thrilling festivals of Spain. This gala event is being celebrated in the country from 6th – 14th July, thus giving the merrymakers a chance to grab last minute flights tickets to Spain. However, holidaymakers already vacationing in the country may head to Irunea/Pamplona in the region of Navarra to partake in this exciting and fun-filled festival. People in large groups assemble in the square, awaiting the official announcement of the mayor that the fiesta has begun. Just after the announcement is made, a rocket is launched towards the sky and the partying begins with utmost zeal and enthusiasm.
Spain’s ‘Running of the Bulls’ by Ian Mackenzie / CC BY
The Bull Run starts at 8 am every morning from Santo Domingo where the bulls are kept to the bullring as they fight in the other direction that same afternoon. The total stretch is of over 825 meters and the average time of the run from start to finish is almost three minutes where the participants need to run for their life. The tension intensifies just after the bulls are released. The runners are advised to be dressed in white with a red handkerchief around their necks that marks as a sign of respect for San Fermin. The runners first climb Santo Domingo and then go across the Ayuntamiento Square further crossing Mercaderes. The most exciting yet dangerous part of the run is at the curve leading into Estafeta that takes the breath away of participants.
Spain’s ‘Running of the Bulls by Ian Mackenzie / CC BY
This popular event was earlier celebrated in honour of San Fermin, a patron saint of Navarra, however with the rolling years the religious aspect has taken a backseat. The fiesta is now seen as a large gathering of people from different parts of the world where people come for partying, having fun and making the most of their huge monies spent on air tickets for flights to Spain. Travellers are advised to follow all the essential tips and advise while being a part of the race to avoid any kind of causality.
