The Sanfermines are held every year from July 6 to 14 in honor of Saint Firmin, patron saint of Pamplona. For several days, the city is invaded by a multicolored crowd. The streets fill up with Pamplona locals and tourists, some of whom come from far and wide to witness these unique festivities. The official kick-off, or chupinazo, takes place at 12am on July 6. It’s an eagerly awaited moment, when the mayor throws a firecracker from the balcony of City Hall to mark the start of the festivities. From that moment on, the city is immersed in festivities.
What can I do during it ?
During the Sanfermines, Pamplona offers activities for all tastes. One of the most popular is the encierro, a bull run that takes place every morning at 8am. The bulls are released from their pens and run through the city streets to the bullring.
If that’s not your thing, don’t worry, there’s plenty more to see and do !
Of course, religious ceremonies also parade through the streets to celebrate worship.
There’s a vibrant atmosphere on every street, with music, dancing and games. Everyone comes together to eat, drink and party. It’s the perfect time to enjoy with friends or make new acquaintances. But you can also enjoy it in family ! There are also paella contests and wine tastings. At night, you’ll be treated to night-time parties and fireworks.
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Tradition
Traditionally, and for several centuries, all participants in these festivities wear the same typical costume. Men wear white pants and a white shirt, with a red scarf around the waist and a red scarf around the neck. Women wear a skirt and white blouse, with the same scarf and scarf as the men. This tradition of dress, which dates back several centuries, is a way of showing pride in Navarrese culture and customs.
Gastronomy
Let yourself be seduced by the culinary delights that delight your palate at every corner. Pamplona’s renowned gastronomy invites you to savor exquisite pintxos, miniature culinary treasures bursting with flavors that showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage.
But you’ll also find “tortilla de patatas“, a Spanish potato omelette, “jamón serrano” and “croquetas“. You can also enjoy typical dishes such as “chuletón de buey“, which is prime rib of beef, and “cordero al chilindrón“, a kind of lamb stew in tomato sauce.
Taste also the wines of Navarre, which are among the best in Spain and will perfectly accompany your dishes during these festivities.
How do I get there ?
The city is easily accessible by car, about 4 hours from Madrid. Pamplona is a large city, so of course it has its own train station. As for the car, allow 4 hours from Madrid’s Atocha station.
We offer you the possibility of departing by private bus from Madrid, which will make things easier for you as we take care of everything. All you have to do is get to the meeting point at the Hotel Mediodia (Del Arte/Atocha station).
So don’t hesitate and come to discover these incredible festivities to soak up the culture. You won’t regret it with all the things to do there. It’s impossible to get bored! Pamplona welcomes you in a warm and festive atmosphere.
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