Running of the Bulls 2017
So, you’ve come to run! ¡Viva San Fermin! We will cheer you on from the safety of a balcony above. We’ve been on the streets with the bulls too, so we’ve compiled the information you’d definitely like to know. Lace up, runner, and get excited about the Pamplona Bull Run 2017!
By Raymond Forget (Own work) 1963 [CC BY-SA 4.0-3.0-2.5-2.0-1.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0-3.0-2.5-2.0-1.0)],
via Wikimedia Commons
First, a short history lesson- How did the Running of the Bulls get started?
The origin of this tradition was the necessity to move the bulls from outside the city to the bullring in the center of the town - they've been doing that since the 13th century, and the Fiesta has been held every July since 1591. It's not clear when citizens began running in front of the bulls but there are records as far back as 1787 indicating that the tradition was already long established at that point. The route the bulls run has only changed slightly since 1852.
As one local who has run 25 years says, "The Encierro is no way to end the night. If you come to run, then you must (only) run. It is serious." In an age where countries pass laws that require seat-belts, helmets and fire alarms...The Bull Run is probably one of the last places you can so recklessly endanger your own safety with the blessing of the law. Consider your choice carefully!
The origin of this tradition was the necessity to move the bulls from outside the city to the bullring in the center of the town - they've been doing that since the 13th century, and the Fiesta has been held every July since 1591. It's not clear when citizens began running in front of the bulls but there are records as far back as 1787 indicating that the tradition was already long established at that point. The route the bulls run has only changed slightly since 1852.
As one local who has run 25 years says, "The Encierro is no way to end the night. If you come to run, then you must (only) run. It is serious." In an age where countries pass laws that require seat-belts, helmets and fire alarms...The Bull Run is probably one of the last places you can so recklessly endanger your own safety with the blessing of the law. Consider your choice carefully!
Pamplona Bull Run 2017
Have some questions? We did too. Click through a few of the most common asked by our clients who decide to run with the bulls.
When to RunWhat day? Time?
How long does the run last? 
Runner Dress & EtiquetteHow can I look more like an experienced bull runner?
|
The RouteWhere does the run take place? How far is it?
In Case of EmergencyWhat if I fall or get hurt?
|
Watching a RunnerHow can I make sure I see my runners?
TestimonialsWhat are other's stories and experiences?
|
When to Run
July 7th is the worst possible day to run with the bulls because so many novices choose to run that day and actually make it more dangerous. Maybe you, like many of our guests, will choose instead to watch from the comfort and safety of a balcony. If you plan to participate in the run (any day) you'll need to gather in Plaza Consistorial near the starting point of the route: Position yourself somewhere at the end of Santo Domingo street, in front of the Ayuntamiento (Town Hall), or the beginning of Mercaderes street by 7:00 AM. I'd recommend getting there early! Don't just follow the crowds. Sometimes you'll see people all along Estafeta street stretching out and preening as though they'll be running. The police however make a sweep all the way down Estafeta street prior to the run. Anyone in this area will be disqualified and forced off the street.
But for the rest of us, safely on our balconies; here is what you can expect. The Bull Run begins at 8:00 AM and the runners chant three times to a small statue of San Fermin - placed in a niche in the wall on Santo Domingo Street. Then the first rocket goes off, letting the runners know the bulls have been let out of the corral. You will hear the roar of the crowd and the echo of the bulls' hooves on the cobblestone streets as the excitement moves in a wave past you. The second rocket signals that all the bulls have left the corral and the third rocket signals that the run is over.
If they don't stop to gore people, the bulls can make the trip down the 825 meter (.51 mile) stretch of narrow streets in 2 to 5 minutes. Of course, the process takes much longer if the bulls stop to notice a runner and target him. At the end of the run, in the Plaza de Toros, they release Vaquillas (young cows with capped horns) into the bullring to toss participants around and amuse the crowd.
The event is dangerous. SInce 1925, 15 people have been killed during the event - most recently on July 10, 2009. Every year between 200-300 people are injured during the run although most are bruises and scrapes due to falls and not the result of gorings from the bulls' horns.
But for the rest of us, safely on our balconies; here is what you can expect. The Bull Run begins at 8:00 AM and the runners chant three times to a small statue of San Fermin - placed in a niche in the wall on Santo Domingo Street. Then the first rocket goes off, letting the runners know the bulls have been let out of the corral. You will hear the roar of the crowd and the echo of the bulls' hooves on the cobblestone streets as the excitement moves in a wave past you. The second rocket signals that all the bulls have left the corral and the third rocket signals that the run is over.
If they don't stop to gore people, the bulls can make the trip down the 825 meter (.51 mile) stretch of narrow streets in 2 to 5 minutes. Of course, the process takes much longer if the bulls stop to notice a runner and target him. At the end of the run, in the Plaza de Toros, they release Vaquillas (young cows with capped horns) into the bullring to toss participants around and amuse the crowd.
The event is dangerous. SInce 1925, 15 people have been killed during the event - most recently on July 10, 2009. Every year between 200-300 people are injured during the run although most are bruises and scrapes due to falls and not the result of gorings from the bulls' horns.
The Route
If they don't stop to gore people, the bulls can make the trip down the 825 meter (.51 mile) stretch of narrow streets in 2 to 5 minutes. Of course, the process takes much longer if the bulls stop to notice a runner and target him. At the end of the run, in the Plaza de Toros, they release Vaquillas (young cows with capped horns) into the bullring to toss participants around and amuse the crowd.
If you plan to participate in the run you'll need to gather in Plaza Consistorial near the starting point of the route: Position yourself somewhere at the end of Santo Domingo street, in front of the Ayuntamiento (Town Hall), or the beginning of Mercaderes street by 7:00 AM. I'd recommend getting there early! Don't just follow the crowds. Sometimes you'll see people all along Estafeta street stretching out and preening as though they'll be running. The police however make a sweep all the way down Estafeta street prior to the run. Anyone in this area will be disqualified and forced off the street.
If you plan to participate in the run you'll need to gather in Plaza Consistorial near the starting point of the route: Position yourself somewhere at the end of Santo Domingo street, in front of the Ayuntamiento (Town Hall), or the beginning of Mercaderes street by 7:00 AM. I'd recommend getting there early! Don't just follow the crowds. Sometimes you'll see people all along Estafeta street stretching out and preening as though they'll be running. The police however make a sweep all the way down Estafeta street prior to the run. Anyone in this area will be disqualified and forced off the street.
Watching a Runner
There are numerous strategies for choosing your perfect private balcony location in Pamplona for the Running of the Bulls®. You may prefer to choose based on balcony level, the route for the Bull Run (encierro), or even the festivities occurring before or after the run. Many guests prefer to be on a higher level balcony so they can see as far as possible while others want to be close enough to the ground to smell the bulls as they run by. Some visitors choose Estafeta Street because it is a long, straight road allowing you to see the farthest or Santo Domingo where you are able to see runners praying to San Fermin’s statue for luck in their run. Often considered the top location is Dead Man’s Corner, aptly named for the sharp turn from Mercaderes onto Estafeta, where bulls often collide with runners. Additionally, balconies located on Mercaderes are prime locations to watch the runners warm up and line up for the Bull Run (encierro), one of the most interesting activities to see while awaiting the start of the run, especially since you must arrive before the streets close at 7:00 a.m. for the Running of the Bulls® to begin at 8:00 a.m.
Runner Dress & Etiquette
The traditional attire for the San Fermin Festival is white pants and a white shirt with the customary red scarf (Pañuelico) and red waistband. You can buy your Running of the Bulls® Outfit here. From our collection of photos you will see that everyone dresses this way and you will enjoy the fiesta more if you do not stand out from the crowd. We recommend bringing your white pants and shirts from home and purchasing your scarf and waistband once you arrive in Pamplona. These red accessories are available in several shops on Estafeta, Mercaderes and Chapitela streets as well as several places in the Taconera Park, around the Bull Ring and Menindades Square. Keep in mind that it is important to be comfortable and not to worry about getting your clothes dirty.
It is against the rules:
To admit anyone under the age of 18 into the course as minors are prohibited from running or participating.
To go over the police barriers which the authorities see fit to erect.
To place oneself in the zones and areas of the itinerary which are expressly reserved by the agents of the authorities.
To hide oneself before the release of the bulls in corners, dead angles or doorways of houses or establishments located throughout the length of the course.
To leave the doors of the houses open along the course. The owners or tenants of the property are responsible for this.
To enter into the route in a state of drunkenness, under the effects of drugs or in any inappropriate state.
To carry objects which may impede the correct running of the Bull Run.
To wear clothes or shoes which are not appropriate for the run.
To call the animals or distract them in any way and for whatever reason in the course or during the rounding up in the Bull Ring.
To run at the bulls or to run behind the bulls.
To touch, to harass or mistreat the bulls and to obstruct their path by any kind of action during the exit and entrance of the release of the young bulls in the bullring.
To stop in the Bull Run or station oneself on the walls or barriers or in the doorways in such a way as to impede the run or the defense of the runners.
To take snapshots from inside the route or from the fencing or barriers.
To carry troublesome paraphernalia that could upset the proper execution of the Running of the Bulls®.
To install any kind of equipment that invades the horizontal, vertical or special area of the bull-running, except by express permission of the City Hall.
Any other kind of occurrence that could hinder the normal functioning of the Running of the Bulls®.
It is against the rules:
To admit anyone under the age of 18 into the course as minors are prohibited from running or participating.
To go over the police barriers which the authorities see fit to erect.
To place oneself in the zones and areas of the itinerary which are expressly reserved by the agents of the authorities.
To hide oneself before the release of the bulls in corners, dead angles or doorways of houses or establishments located throughout the length of the course.
To leave the doors of the houses open along the course. The owners or tenants of the property are responsible for this.
To enter into the route in a state of drunkenness, under the effects of drugs or in any inappropriate state.
To carry objects which may impede the correct running of the Bull Run.
To wear clothes or shoes which are not appropriate for the run.
To call the animals or distract them in any way and for whatever reason in the course or during the rounding up in the Bull Ring.
To run at the bulls or to run behind the bulls.
To touch, to harass or mistreat the bulls and to obstruct their path by any kind of action during the exit and entrance of the release of the young bulls in the bullring.
To stop in the Bull Run or station oneself on the walls or barriers or in the doorways in such a way as to impede the run or the defense of the runners.
To take snapshots from inside the route or from the fencing or barriers.
To carry troublesome paraphernalia that could upset the proper execution of the Running of the Bulls®.
To install any kind of equipment that invades the horizontal, vertical or special area of the bull-running, except by express permission of the City Hall.
Any other kind of occurrence that could hinder the normal functioning of the Running of the Bulls®.
In Case of Emergency
Running with the Bulls in Pamplona is not safe. It is dangerous. That’s why people do it. Please don’t run if you think this is just a game. Everyone who steps inside the bull run route risks injury and death and should be prepared to accept the consequences of their choice to participate. This site does not promote running, but we provide this information as a service for people who understand the risks and choose to run anyway.
15 people have died since record-keeping began in 1910. There is little evidence that anyone died before that. There have been two deaths this century with the last occurring in 2009. If you are considering running, it is important that you study how injuries occur. The most common mistake that people make is trying to get up after being knocked down by bulls or runners. Getting back up just makes you a target, and if you’re already injured, means you are likely to be injured even more severely.
15 people have died since record-keeping began in 1910. There is little evidence that anyone died before that. There have been two deaths this century with the last occurring in 2009. If you are considering running, it is important that you study how injuries occur. The most common mistake that people make is trying to get up after being knocked down by bulls or runners. Getting back up just makes you a target, and if you’re already injured, means you are likely to be injured even more severely.
Testimonials
Running of the Bulls, Inc. is committed to the most accountability and transparency possible in the way we conduct our business. With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, two Trip Advisor Certificates of Excellence, and fully licensed and bonded as a seller of travel, we are proud to strive for excellence in every interaction. These verified reviews are first-hand comments, and can only be submitted by actual customers who have traveled with us.
We had a great trip to Pamplona. The team was very accommodating to my requests and took care of our balconies, bullfight tickets, hotels, and tours around the area. We had a very large group and enjoyed showing all of our friends around the Feista. We also were safely above the bulls on a balcony, which was the safest and most interesting option, especially as I'm a photographer and wanted to get the best shots possible. Thanks to the entire team for supporting us on an unforgettable visit. You really made a dream come true.Paragraph2 We had a great trip to Pamplona. The team was very accommodating to my requests and took care of our balconies, bullfight tickets, hotels, and tours around the area. We had a very large group and enjoyed showing all of our friends around the Feista. We also were safely above the bulls on a balcony, which was the safest and most interesting option, especially as I'm a photographer and wanted to get the best shots possible. Thanks to the entire team for supporting us on an unforgettable visit. You really made a dream come true.Paragraph 3 We had a great trip to Pamplona. The team was very accommodating to my requests and took care of our balconies, bullfight tickets, hotels, and tours around the area. We had a very large group and enjoyed showing all of our friends around the Feista. We also were safely above the bulls on a balcony, which was the safest and most interesting option, especially as I'm a photographer and wanted to get the best shots possible. Thanks to the entire team for supporting us on an unforgettable visit. You really made a dream come true.Paragraph 4 We had a great trip to Pamplona. The team was very accommodating to my requests and took care of our balconies, bullfight tickets, hotels, and tours around the area. We had a very large group and enjoyed showing all of our friends around the Feista. We also were safely above the bulls on a balcony, which was the safest and most interesting option, especially as I'm a photographer and wanted to get the best shots possible. Thanks to the entire team for supporting us on an unforgettable visit. You really made a dream come true.
Mark R., 1/18/2017
We had a great trip to Pamplona. The team was very accommodating to my requests and took care of our balconies, bullfight tickets, hotels, and tours around the area. We had a very large group and enjoyed showing all of our friends around the Feista. We also were safely above the bulls on a balcony, which was the safest and most interesting option, especially as I'm a photographer and wanted to get the best shots possible. Thanks to the entire team for supporting us on an unforgettable visit. You really made a dream come true.
Mark H., 1/18/2017
The BEST travel experience we've had! The staff was friendly, accommodating and very professional and knowledgeable! It's the ONLY way to truly get the most out of your Pamplona visit.
Sandy C., 1/9/2017
Unbelievable. A truly once-in-a-lifetime experience . Service was incredibly attentive and helpful. They knew all the ins and outs of the city, what to see, where to go, etc. We had a great balcony and also great bullfight tickets. Going back again this year with some friends.
David L., 1/9/2017
Thank you to our wonderful guests who take the time to provide reviews. These reviews come from verified guests who specifically used our Pamplona Balconies, Running of the Bulls Hotels, Pamplona Bullfight Tickets, and other tours and events in Pamplona.
We had a great trip to Pamplona. The team was very accommodating to my requests and took care of our balconies, bullfight tickets, hotels, and tours around the area. We had a very large group and enjoyed showing all of our friends around the Feista. We also were safely above the bulls on a balcony, which was the safest and most interesting option, especially as I'm a photographer and wanted to get the best shots possible. Thanks to the entire team for supporting us on an unforgettable visit. You really made a dream come true.Paragraph2 We had a great trip to Pamplona. The team was very accommodating to my requests and took care of our balconies, bullfight tickets, hotels, and tours around the area. We had a very large group and enjoyed showing all of our friends around the Feista. We also were safely above the bulls on a balcony, which was the safest and most interesting option, especially as I'm a photographer and wanted to get the best shots possible. Thanks to the entire team for supporting us on an unforgettable visit. You really made a dream come true.Paragraph 3 We had a great trip to Pamplona. The team was very accommodating to my requests and took care of our balconies, bullfight tickets, hotels, and tours around the area. We had a very large group and enjoyed showing all of our friends around the Feista. We also were safely above the bulls on a balcony, which was the safest and most interesting option, especially as I'm a photographer and wanted to get the best shots possible. Thanks to the entire team for supporting us on an unforgettable visit. You really made a dream come true.Paragraph 4 We had a great trip to Pamplona. The team was very accommodating to my requests and took care of our balconies, bullfight tickets, hotels, and tours around the area. We had a very large group and enjoyed showing all of our friends around the Feista. We also were safely above the bulls on a balcony, which was the safest and most interesting option, especially as I'm a photographer and wanted to get the best shots possible. Thanks to the entire team for supporting us on an unforgettable visit. You really made a dream come true.
Mark R., 1/18/2017
We had a great trip to Pamplona. The team was very accommodating to my requests and took care of our balconies, bullfight tickets, hotels, and tours around the area. We had a very large group and enjoyed showing all of our friends around the Feista. We also were safely above the bulls on a balcony, which was the safest and most interesting option, especially as I'm a photographer and wanted to get the best shots possible. Thanks to the entire team for supporting us on an unforgettable visit. You really made a dream come true.
Mark H., 1/18/2017
The BEST travel experience we've had! The staff was friendly, accommodating and very professional and knowledgeable! It's the ONLY way to truly get the most out of your Pamplona visit.
Sandy C., 1/9/2017
Unbelievable. A truly once-in-a-lifetime experience . Service was incredibly attentive and helpful. They knew all the ins and outs of the city, what to see, where to go, etc. We had a great balcony and also great bullfight tickets. Going back again this year with some friends.
David L., 1/9/2017
Thank you to our wonderful guests who take the time to provide reviews. These reviews come from verified guests who specifically used our Pamplona Balconies, Running of the Bulls Hotels, Pamplona Bullfight Tickets, and other tours and events in Pamplona.