With nine action-packed days of festivities at Pamplona's San Fermín fiesta, you might be wondering: when's the best time to join in on the excitement? The answer will be different from person to person, so we'll let you decide! Here's what you should expect for the various days of the Running of the Bulls festival:
July 6-8: The Ultimate Party
If you're craving an adrenaline-fueled (and sangria-fueled) extravaganza, mark your calendar for July 6th through 8th. Arrive in Pamplona a day earlier (July 5th) to soak up the atmosphere, and get ready to dive headfirst into the most intense party of your life. The very fun and chaotic Opening Ceremony at noon on July 6th kicks off the festivities, followed by the first encierro (bull run) of the season on July 7th. These are the most colorful and electric days of the fiesta, but they are also the most crowded days. Choose these days if you love to party and if you don't mind a crowd!
July 9-12: A Moment of Calm
After the whirlwind of the first few days, the middle of the festival offers a welcome respite for weary revelers. As the city takes a collective breath, you'll have the chance to catch up on some much-needed rest and experience a more traditional side of the Running of the Bulls festival. Take this opportunity to explore Pamplona's charming streets, sample delicious local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Basque region. These are considered the best days for beginners to run with the bulls, since the dense crowds of the early bull runs have largely dispersed. These are also typically the cheapest days to experience the fiesta.
July 13-14: The Grand Finale
As the festival draws to a close, prepare for one final burst of excitement on July 13th and 14th. While not quite as wild as the opening days, these last hurrahs still pack a punch, as revelers embrace the final moments of the festival. If you're in Pamplona during these dates, be sure to attend the enchanting candlelit "Pobre de Mí" closing ceremony at midnight on July 14th - a farewell to nine days of unforgettable memories.
No matter what days you're in Pamplona, there's something for everyone at the Running of the Bulls. Get ready to lace up your running shoes, don your red and white attire, and join in on the adventure of a lifetime!