Thrill Seekers Flock to Spain’s San Fermin Festival for First Running of the Bulls

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In the vibrant city of Pamplona, northern Spain, thousands of adrenaline-seeking participants eagerly took part in the inaugural running of the bulls at the renowned San Fermín festival.

During the 8 a.m. event on Friday, numerous runners encountered knocks and tumbles along the exhilarating route, yet thankfully, none fell victim to the horns of the mighty beasts, which often add a dramatic element to the spectacle.

This beloved festival draws hundreds of thousands of tourists, with a staggering 1.7 million individuals visiting Pamplona to partake in the revelry in 2022. Forecasts for this year’s festivities are even higher, as all COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted.

In the race, six bulls, guided by six tame oxen, surged through the streets of Pamplona for approximately two minutes and 30 seconds, ultimately reaching the grand bull ring.

Ernest Hemingway’s iconic 1926 novel, “The Sun Also Rises,” catapulted the festival to worldwide fame. This year, the celebration marks the centenary of Hemingway’s initial visit.

The run held on Friday was the first of eight scheduled runs. The remainder of the day typically involves indulging in copious amounts of food and drink, as well as partaking in various cultural events.

Last year, four runners were gored during the festival, highlighting the inherent dangers involved. Since 1910, a total of sixteen individuals have tragically lost their lives in bull runs, with the most recent fatality occurring in 2009.

It is customary for the bulls that participate in the morning runs to meet their demise in the afternoon, skillfully dispatched by professional bullfighters.

Animal rights activists vehemently oppose the festival every year, decrying the perceived cruelty inflicted upon the animals.

Destino Navarra, an official tour guide group, disclosed that visitors from the United States and Canada account for a staggering 70% of their total bookings for this year’s festivities.

Seasoned bull runners, primarily local residents, boldly sprint ahead, narrowly evading the charging bulls’ menacing horns before veering off at the last possible moment. Inexperienced participants, including many foreigners, manage to scramble out of harm’s way, often finding themselves entangled amidst a pile of fellow runners.

During the vibrant festival, nearly everyone in Pamplona adorns themselves in the traditional attire of a white shirt and pants, complemented by a vibrant red sash and neckerchief.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about San Fermin festival

More about San Fermin festival

• San Fermin Festival – Official Website
• Running of the Bulls – Wikipedia
• Ernest Hemingway and the San Fermin Festival
• Animal Rights Activism and the San Fermin Festival
• History and Tradition of the San Fermin Festival