First Bull Run of Spain's 2026 San Fermín Festival Draws Hundreds of Daring Participants Through Pamplona

The annual event quickly became a trending topic in the United States after dramatic footage shared by NBC News showed runners weaving through the historic streets while thousands of spectators watched from balconies, barricades, and designated viewing areas.

A Tradition That Dates Back Centuries

The San Fermín Festival, held every July in Pamplona, honors the city's patron saint, Saint Fermín. Although the celebration includes concerts, parades, religious ceremonies, fireworks, and cultural events, the Running of the Bulls remains its signature attraction.

Each morning from July 7 through July 14, six fighting bulls, accompanied by steers, race along a roughly 875-meter (about half-mile) route from their holding pens to the city's bullring. Participants voluntarily run ahead of the animals, attempting to stay close while avoiding falls or collisions. The run typically lasts just a few minutes but is packed with adrenaline and unpredictability.

Hundreds Take Part in the Opening Run

The opening run of the 2026 festival attracted hundreds of experienced runners as well as first-time participants from around the world. Images from the event captured packed streets, with runners accelerating through tight corners while the bulls thundered close behind.

Like every year, many participants gathered before the start to sing a traditional prayer asking Saint Fermín for protection before the release of the bulls. Moments later, the sound of the starting rocket signaled the beginning of another unforgettable run.

Safety Remains a Major Concern

Despite extensive planning by local authorities, the Running of the Bulls remains a high-risk event.

Medical teams, emergency responders, and security personnel are stationed along the course every morning to respond quickly if runners are injured. Organizers also enforce strict rules designed to improve safety, including prohibitions against running while intoxicated or intentionally provoking the bulls. Participants must also meet the minimum age requirement to take part.

Early reports from this year's festival indicated that several participants required medical attention during the opening days, highlighting the inherent risks involved in the centuries-old tradition.

Why Americans Continue to Be Fascinated

The Running of the Bulls has long fascinated audiences in the United States, thanks in large part to American author Ernest Hemingway. His classic novel The Sun Also Rises, first published in 1926, introduced generations of readers to the excitement and atmosphere of the San Fermín Festival.

This year carries added historical significance as 2026 marks the 100th anniversary of Hemingway's influential novel. Many American visitors continue to travel to Pamplona each year after being inspired by his writing, making Americans one of the largest groups of international participants.

A Festival That Inspires Both Admiration and Debate

While the festival attracts thousands of tourists annually and provides a major boost to Pamplona's economy, it also continues to generate debate.

Supporters describe the Running of the Bulls as an important cultural tradition deeply rooted in Spanish history. Critics, however, raise concerns about both participant safety and animal welfare, with advocacy groups continuing to call for changes or an end to bull-related events.

The discussion has become increasingly prominent in recent years as attitudes toward animal welfare evolve around the world.

Global Media Spotlight

The opening run received extensive international media coverage, with broadcasters and digital platforms sharing live footage and highlights throughout the day.

Videos showing runners narrowly avoiding the charging bulls quickly spread across social media, drawing millions of views and helping the event trend in several countries, including the United States.

What Happens Next?

The San Fermín Festival continues through mid-July, with a new bull run taking place each morning. Alongside the famous runs, visitors can enjoy traditional music, street performances, parades featuring giant figures, fireworks displays, and religious celebrations that make the festival one of Spain's largest annual events.

As always, authorities continue encouraging participants to respect the official safety rules while reminding visitors that the Running of the Bulls is a dangerous activity that demands caution and preparation.

Final Take

The first bull run of the 2026 San Fermín Festival once again showcased why Pamplona's famous tradition remains one of the world's most watched cultural events. Hundreds of runners embraced the challenge, while millions followed the action online and through international news coverage.

Whether viewed as an extraordinary cultural celebration, a thrilling sporting spectacle, or a controversial tradition, the Running of the Bulls continues to captivate global audiences and remains one of Spain's most recognizable annual events.