When & Where: From July 6 to 14, in Pamplona.
The San FermÃn Festivities, held annually from July 6 to July 14 in Pamplona, Navarre, are among the most famous and iconic celebrations in the world. These festivities honor San FermÃn, the patron saint of Navarre, and attract thousands of participants and spectators from across the globe.
The origins of the festival date back to medieval times, combining religious ceremonies with livestock fairs. Over centuries, these elements merged into the modern celebration known today. Its international fame surged in the 20th century, partly due to Ernest Hemingway’s novel “The Sun Also Rises” (1926), which vividly described the festival’s vibrancy and excitement.
The official commencement of San FermÃn occurs at noon on July 6 with the “Chupinazo”, the launching of a rocket from Pamplona’s Town Hall balcony, signaling the start of the festivities. The streets fill with revelers dressed in traditional white attire with red scarves, symbolizing the festival’s spirit of unity and tradition.
The most famous event of San FermÃn is the Encierro, or running of the bulls, which takes place daily at 8:00 AM from July 7 to July 14. Participants run alongside bulls through the city’s narrow streets, covering a 875-meter route leading to the Plaza de Toros. The Encierro, both thrilling and dangerous, embodies the adrenaline and cultural heritage of the festival.
Religious devotion is central to the festivities, with the Procession of San FermÃn on July 7 being a significant event. This solemn parade features a statue of San FermÃn carried through Pamplona’s streets, accompanied by traditional dancers, musicians, and local dignitaries.
The festival also includes concerts, traditional Basque sports, cultural events, and nightly fireworks displays, offering a diverse range of activities for all ages. For locals, known as “Pamplonicas,” San FermÃn is a profound expression of their cultural identity and community pride.
The celebrations conclude on the night of July 14 with the singing of “Pobre de MÔ, a poignant farewell to the festival, as participants gather in the main square holding candles. The San FermÃn Festivities are a unique blend of tradition, faith, and festivity, making them an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
