The festivities
The origin of the Sanfermines
The origin of the San Fermín Festival is in the Middle Ages and has a religious character. In the 12th century, Pedro de París (natural of Artajona and Bishop of Pamplona), brings relics of San Fermín, a holy martyr born in the city, so that its inhabitants venerate them.
In those times a festival was celebrated in his honor on October 10. At the end of the 16th century, another Bishop of Pamplona, Bernardo Sandoval y Rojas, moved it to 7 July, due to the weather and to coincide with the bullfighting festivities and the Pamplona livestock fair.
From Sarasate to Hemingway
The San Fermín festivities have evolved as so many popular celebrations have in Spain. Over time they have gained fame at a national and international level. At the end of the 19th century, people beyond our borders were already known thanks, above all, to two prominent figures in world culture.
The violinist from Pamplona Pablo Sarasate was one of those who gave him international fame, thanks to his great concerts at the Teatro Principal (today Teatro Gayarre), where top musicians, personal friends of Sarasate, participated.
The passage of Ernest Hemingway, North American writer with the Nobel Prize in Literature, through Pamplona was the definitive boost. His novel “The Sun Also Rises”, set during the San Fermines, helped make it one of the most famous festivals in the world.
Pamplona and its people
The San Fermín festivities are famous and unique for their popular character, something that is reflected in the origin of many of the main events of the festivities; they have arisen from spontaneity and the way of being of the people of Pamplona.
The Chupinazo, the running of the bulls, the missing Riau Riau or the white and red clothing, were born from the people. As time goes by, all these acts become so popular that they end up integrating into the festivities and becoming the stars of the festivities program.
The Pamplona festivals would be nothing without the people of Pamplona and their open character and desire to have fun. A very important role in the animation of the city is played by the Peñas de Pamplona.
Emblematic acts
The Sanfermines are a festival for everyone. From the oldest to the youngest, they can enjoy our parties. Day and night, the city is full of things to do. Official program, program of popular groups, programming at Teatro Gayarre or Baluarte… complete a total of more than 300 events for the whole world, among which we highlight those with the greatest tradition:
Chupinazo
It indicates the beginning of the festivities, on July 6 at 12 noon.
Bull running
Every day at 8:00, the bulls run through the streets of Pamplona.
Procession
On the 7th, Pamplona pays tribute to San Fermin.
Comparsa
'Gignates y cabezudos' delight young and old alike.
Bullfights
The Bull Fair is one of the most important in Spain.
Exit of the 'peñas'
After the bullfight, the peñas take to the streets of the city.
Fireworks
Pyrotechnic shows that illuminate the nights of Pamplona.
Dianas
Pamplona wakes up every day to the sound of La Pamplonesa.
Pobre de Mí
Farewell ceremony for the festivities, on the 14th at 12 midnight.
San Fermin with children
You have many things to enjoy the San Fermín festivities. From watching the Comparsa de Gigantes and Cabezudos dance, going to the children’s attractions areas in Taconera or Plaza de la Libertad or seeing the Fireworks.
Without a doubt, children are one of the great protagonists of the Pamplona Festivals!
