The festivities
The Origins of San Fermín
The origins of the San Fermín Festival trace back to the Middle Ages with a deeply religious character. In the 12th century, Pedro de París, the Bishop of Pamplona, brought relics of San Fermín—a martyred saint born in the city—to be venerated by its people.
Back then, the celebration in honor of San Fermín took place on October 10. However, in the late 16th century, Bishop Bernardo Sandoval y Rojas moved the date to July 7 due to better weather and to align it with Pamplona’s bullfighting festivities and livestock fair.
From Sarasate to Hemingway
The San Fermín Festival has evolved over the years, much like many other traditional celebrations in Spain. Over time, it gained national and international fame. By the late 19th century, the festival was already recognized beyond Spain’s borders, thanks to two key cultural figures.
The renowned violinist Pablo Sarasate, from Pamplona, contributed to the festival’s fame by hosting grand concerts at the Teatro Principal (now Teatro Gayarre), often featuring world-class musicians and personal friends of Sarasate.
Ernest Hemingway. The American Nobel Prize-winning author cemented the festival’s global status. His novel The Sun Also Rises (Fiesta), set against the backdrop of the San Fermín Festival, made it one of the most famous celebrations worldwide.
Pamplona and its people
What sets the San Fermín Festival apart is its deeply popular and communal nature, rooted in the traditions and spontaneity of Pamplona’s people.
Many iconic events, such as the Chupinazo (opening ceremony), the Encierro (Running of the Bulls), the now-discontinued Riau-Riau, and the white-and-red attire, emerged organically from the community. Over time, these traditions became integral to the festival and now dominate its program.
The festival wouldn’t be the same without Pamplona’s open-hearted, fun-loving residents. The city’s Peñas (local social clubs) play a vital role in creating the vibrant atmosphere that fills the streets.
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 run
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.
Peñas Parade
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 Fermín for Kids
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!
