San Fermin Festival

The San Fermín Festival, celebrated annually in Pamplona, Spain, is a nine-day event that pays homage to the city's first bishop and patron saint, Saint Fermín. Initially observed on September 25, the festivities were moved to July in 1592. The modern fiesta commences with a fireworks display called the *chupinazo* at noon on July 6, followed by the singing of the traditional song "Pamploneses, Viva San Fermín, Gora San Fermín". The festival's highlight is the running of the bulls, or the *encierro*, which takes place from July 7 to July 14. This event involves running six bulls, accompanied by two herds of tame bulls, through the streets of Pamplona to the bullring, where they participate in a bullfight in the afternoon.

The red scarf is a significant symbol during the San Fermín Festival. Traditionally worn around the neck during the festivities, it has religious origins, representing the martyrdom of San Fermín and the vow of the Five Wounds, established in 1599 as an act of gratitude for the eradication of a plague.

Beyond the Running of the Bulls, the San Fermín Festival offers numerous other ways to enjoy the celebration. Various events, including the *comparsa* (a parade featuring large puppets), religious processions, and spontaneous gatherings, take place throughout the nine days. The festival concludes with the singing of "Pobre de Mi" on July 14, marking the end of the festivities.

The San Fermín Festival is not just about the Running of the Bulls; it is a time of reflection and respect, bringing together young and old, religious and secular, modern and ancient. The atmosphere is infectious, with dances, street-side parties, singing, parades, and traditional folkloric events occurring 24/7 throughout the festival.