San Fermin 2026: Pamplona's Running of the Bulls Festival
Event Details
Event: San Fermin 2026
Date: July 6, 2026 - July 14, 2026
Location: Pamplona, Spain
Tickets: EUR 0 - 150
San Fermin 2026 turns the northern Spanish city of Pamplona into one of the world's most famous celebrations, running from July 6 to July 14. Immortalized by Ernest Hemingway in "The Sun Also Rises," the festival is best known for the daily encierro, or Running of the Bulls, but it is far more than that single event. For nine days the streets fill with people dressed in traditional white clothing and red neckerchiefs, sharing music, food, processions, fireworks, and around-the-clock revelry in honor of Saint Fermin.
What to Expect
The festival officially begins at noon on July 6 with the Chupinazo, when a rocket is launched from the balcony of the Pamplona Town Hall and the packed Plaza Consistorial erupts in celebration. From that moment on, the city runs almost nonstop until the melancholic "Pobre de Mi" closing ceremony at midnight on July 14.
Each morning at 8:00 the encierro sends six fighting bulls and a crowd of runners along an 875-meter route through the narrow streets of the old town to the bullring. Beyond the run, expect the giant Comparsa de Gigantes y Cabezudos parade of towering figures, riau-riau songs, traditional Navarrese jota dancing, open-air concerts, and nightly fireworks over the citadel.
Tickets and Access Information
Attending San Fermin itself is free. The street festivities, the Chupinazo, parades, and the atmosphere in the old town cost nothing beyond food and drink. Watching the encierro from the public route is also free, though good vantage points fill up hours in advance and participating as a runner is strictly regulated and undertaken at your own risk.
Tickets are only required for events inside the Plaza de Toros bullring, where prices for afternoon events typically range from around EUR 6 for basic sun-side seating to well over EUR 100 for premium shaded boxes. Reserved balconies along the running route are sold privately and can be expensive during peak mornings.
Location and Logistics
Pamplona is the capital of the Navarre region in northern Spain, easily reached by train and bus from Madrid, Barcelona, San Sebastian, and Bilbao. The nearest major airports are Pamplona (limited flights), Bilbao, and San Sebastian, with Zaragoza and Madrid offering wider connections.
Accommodation is the single biggest logistical challenge: hotels in and around the old town sell out many months ahead and prices rise sharply during the festival. Many visitors stay in nearby towns or day-trip in, while others rely on campsites on the city outskirts. Book as early as possible and confirm cancellation terms.
Tips for Attendees
Wear the traditional outfit of white shirt and trousers with a red faja (sash) and panuelo (neckerchief) to feel part of the celebration. Comfortable, closed shoes are essential on streets that get crowded, wet, and slippery. Keep valuables secured and stay hydrated in the July heat.
If you only want to watch the Running of the Bulls, arrive at the route before dawn or reserve a balcony spot in advance. Never attempt to run without understanding the rules, the route, and the very real dangers involved; the encierro results in injuries every year and is not recommended for casual visitors.
Beyond the Main Event
San Fermin is a gateway to exploring the Basque Country and Navarre. Day trips lead to the medieval streets of nearby villages, the vineyards of the Rioja and Navarre wine regions, and the coastal city of San Sebastian with its celebrated pintxos bars, all within easy reach.
Within Pamplona itself, take time away from the crowds to walk the star-shaped Ciudadela fortress, visit the Gothic Cathedral of Santa Maria, and sample local specialties such as chistorra sausage, piquillo peppers, and Navarrese red wine in the quieter corners of the old town.
