Attend the festival of San Fermin, Spain
San FermÃn fills Pamplona from 6–14 July with far more than the morning bull run. The opening chupinazo, processions, giants and big-head figures, music, fireworks and crowded streets create a festival with deep local roots and many ways to take part. You can build an excellent visit around cultural events and public celebration without running with bulls or entering the bullring. Use Pamplona’s official programme to choose days and events, then book accommodation and transport well ahead. Crowds are exceptionally dense, sleep can be scarce and summer heat or rain changes the experience, so pace yourself, drink water and agree a meeting point with companions. Keep valuables secure and follow police instructions around barriers and cleared routes. If you watch the encierro, use an authorised spectator position or reputable balcony and never climb barriers or enter restricted areas. Respect religious elements, residents and cleaning crews, and avoid treating white clothing and a red scarf as permission for reckless behaviour. The richest visit includes a quieter museum, food or neighbourhood experience alongside the famous street scenes.