6–14 July 2026 · Pamplona
San Fermín 2026 in Pamplona — Complete festival guide
San Fermín is one of the most internationally recognised festivals in the world: nine days of non-stop celebration in the streets of Pamplona's Old Town, declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest. The tradition begins on 6 July with the chupinazo rocket fired from the Town Hall square and closes on 14 July, filling the city with music, bull runs, bullfighting and an unrivalled atmosphere.
Dates & venue
| Dates | 6–14 July 2026 |
| Venue | Casco Antiguo de Pamplona |
| City | Pamplona |
How to get to the venue? See transport & parking guide →
Lineup & tickets
2026 Lineup
The 2026 lineup is being updated. Check the official information at www.sanfermin.com
Tickets
Check availability and prices on the official website: www.sanfermin.com
Practical tips for San Fermín
- ✓Wear white clothing and a red neckerchief: this is the traditional dress of the festival and almost every attendee follows it.
- ✓Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. Days are long and you will walk a lot on the cobblestones of the Old Town.
- ✓Bring light layers: July nights in Pamplona can turn cool, especially in the first few days.
- ✓Protect your belongings. The festive crowds are massive; use a bum bag or small backpack you can keep an eye on.
- ✓Stay hydrated: July heat and the pace of the festival demand regular water intake, not just alcoholic drinks.
- ✓Check the official programme on sanfermin.com in advance so you don't miss the events you care most about: bull runs, giants parade, fireworks and concerts.
- ✓If you plan to watch the bull run from the street, arrive at least 1.5–2 hours before the 8 am start to secure a good spot. The barriers close once sections are full.
- ✓Book accommodation well in advance — Pamplona sells out completely during the festival and prices multiply.
Where to stay in Pamplona during San Fermín
Accommodation in Pamplona during San Fermín is the scarcest and most expensive resource of the festival. Book as early as possible and consider options in nearby towns.
Hotels and hostels in Pamplona
The city's hotel stock fills up months in advance. Establishments in the centre and Old Town allow you to walk to all events, but they are the most in-demand and expensive during this period.
Holiday apartments and rentals
Tourist apartments offer more space and a kitchen, helping to keep costs down. Browse short-stay rental platforms well in advance; many owners already have bookings confirmed from the previous year.
Accommodation in nearby towns
Villages such as Huarte, Burlada, Cizur Menor or Barañáin are just a few minutes from Pamplona by car or public transport and tend to have better availability and more reasonable prices during the festival.
Campsites and motorhome areas
Several campsites around Pamplona expand capacity during San Fermín. This is a budget-friendly option if you are travelling with a tent or motorhome, though demand is still high.
Frequently asked questions
When is the opening rocket (chupinazo) at San Fermín 2026?▼
The chupinazo that officially opens the festival takes place on 6 July 2026 at 12:00 noon in Pamplona's Plaza del Ayuntamiento (Town Hall Square).
When and at what time does the bull run take place?▼
The bull runs (encierros) are held from 7 to 14 July at 8:00 am. The route runs from the Santo Domingo corrals to the Plaza de Toros, covering approximately 825 metres.
Do you need a ticket to watch the bull run?▼
Watching the bull run from the street along the fenced route is free, though you need to arrive early enough to claim a spot. Watching from inside the Plaza de Toros requires a ticket, which can be purchased at the ticket office on the morning of each run.
What should I wear to San Fermín?▼
The traditional dress is all white (trousers and shirt) with a red neckerchief around the neck and a red sash around the waist. It is not compulsory but is almost universal among attendees and is part of the spirit of the festival.
Is San Fermín suitable for families with children?▼
Many San Fermín events are ideal for families: the giants and big-heads parade, fireworks displays, concerts at the citadel and cultural activities. The most crowded and late-night environments require extra care with young children.
Where can I find the official programme of events?▼
The full and up-to-date San Fermín 2026 programme is published on the official website sanfermin.com, where you will also find information on bull runs, bullfighting, concerts, the giants parade and all official ceremonies.
Going to San Fermín?
Find someone to share a car with using VIB3S and arrive in Pamplona without the parking or transport headache.