Awesome time in Pamplona with an amazing team from Bucket List. We highly recommend Toby and his team.
Awesome time in Pamplona with an amazing team from Bucket List. We highly recommend Toby and his team.
You pick the best dates for your party
Our standard Running of the Bulls packages span three different sets of dates: opening ceremonies, mid-festival, and closing ceremonies. You pick the dates best for your group, and we’ll take care of everything else. Here is a sample of what could be in store for you:
Opening Ceremonies Package (Three Nights – July 5-8)
Mid-Fest Packages (Two Nights – July 8-10 or 10-12)
Closing Ceremonies Package (Three Nights – July 12-15)
Opening Ceremonies: July 5-8
The secret is out about this one-of-a-kind celebration.
Year after year, this package remains our most popular San Fermin booking. For those looking for a city packed with sangria soaked festival goers singing and dancing (and drinking) through all hours of the night, then this is when you want to attend the San Fermin.
With the popularity of the opening dates, competition for hotel rooms, balcony spots, and quality dinner locations are intense. Luckily, you can get them all in one place. We keep our program to a limited headcount to ensure a top notch customer experience.
If you’ve done your research about the San Fermin, you’ve likely read a good bit about the boisterous opening ceremonies known as the “Chupinazo.” If you’re looking at this page, you obviously like what you’ve read.
In terms of a party, it may be hard to top the opening day of the San Fermin festival, known as the Chupinazo. Simply put, the opening 36 hours is a sight to see, full of sangria, waterfalls, music, and excitement. The city of Pamplona goes from a quiet town in the Northeast corner of Spain on July 5th, to a boisterous celebration full of century old traditions on July 6th. Representatives from all over the world gather in the Old Town part of Pamplona, ready to partake in the celebration.
At the strike of noon, thousands of eyes turn to the Plaza Ayuntamiento in front of Town Hall as the Mayor of Pamplona and other officials step out onto a balcony, summoning an explosion of excitement.
The words “Pamploneses, Pamplonesas, Viva San Fermín! Gora San Fermín!” fills the air, and just like that, the wait is over. A rocket is lit and fired off into the sky above Pamplona, and absolute chaos ensues. Bottles of champagne and gallons of sangria are tossed into the air, and the world’s biggest party is underway!
Brave Bucket List Travelers who survived running with the bulls, unscathed!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (Opening Ceremonies)
Q. What is the difference between the opening day of the San Fermin Festival vs. other days?
A. The San Fermin festival is from July 6-14, and while most days are almost identical, there is only one Chupinazo. Once you experience it, you will completely understand. No matter what day of the week July 6th falls upon, the Chupinazo will always be by far the most popular time of the San Fermin festival. With that in mind, this is also the most requested portion of the festival by our guests, so availability will always be limited during the opening days.
The San Fermin is an absolute blast each and every day, but only July 6th can boast this one of a kind party. Come join us and take in the fun in the streets and from up above!
However, we must emphasize that this is an intense time in the city, and the streets are packed wall to wall in perpetuity. If you are one that prefers a little bit of space, we would not recommend the opening.
Q. Why is the opening of the festival more expensive
A. Since there are significantly more people in Pamplona for the opening dates, hotel rooms are in much higher demand. In turn, they are offered at much higher rates to match the demand.
We promise to put you in the middle of the action from start to finish, and offer our clients a private bird’s eye view of all of the chaos below.
There may be 8 mornings of the Running of the Bulls, but there is only one Chupinazo.
OPENING CEREMONIES SAMPLE ITINERAY
Day 1 (July 5)
- Arrive in Pamplona
- Hotel check-in and orientation – Stop by to pick up your welcome packet including your RWB t-shirt, red bandana and waist sash
- Walking tour of the Running of the Bulls course with our staff
- Spanish happy hour with local wine and tapas (or pinchos as they are called in this part of Spain) at a local establishment.
Day 2 (July 6)
- Watch the Chupinazo – Experience the Opening Ceremonies from a balcony in the Plaza del Castillo.
- Partake in the opening party at your pace (citywide) – Get out there and party!
- Open house at our centrally located balcony apartment
- Dinner at a local Spanish restaurant – Join us as we taste the flavors of the region and indulge in the local dishes and wines in old town.
Day 3 (July 7)
- Hit the streets to run with the bulls, or watch from one of our private balconies – Get ready to witness an event like no other.
- Enjoy the San Fermin Festival – Free day to enjoy the festive atmosphere of the city and the festival.
- Attend the first bull fight — shaded seating with snacks and drinks provided
- End of the Night Fireworks Shows – Not to be missed if you have the energy to stay awake. This is a free event held in the center of town.
Day 4 (July 8)
- Hit the streets to run with the bulls, or watch from one of our private balconies – Get ready to witness an event like no other.
- Departure Day – Continue your journey or join us in San Sebastian (the perfect add-on to any Bulls package – Transfers to San Sebastian are provided). Learn more about San Sebastian.
View Travel Packages
Bucket List Travelers looking over the Chupinazo festivities during San Fermin’s opening weekend.
Mid-Festival Package: July 8-10 or 10-12
Looking to attend the San Fermin, but aren’t looking to party through the night? We would recommend you consider the middle portion of the festival. Don’t get us wrong – there is still a lot of fun to be experienced throughout the city, but you are able to do so with a bit more leg room. This includes the actual run, as these dates are usually the best dates to run with the bulls.
This particular package is structured around having more free time during your stay in Pamplona to take in the city and some of its incredible surroundings.
Did we mention Spanish food and wine is to die for?
MID-FEST SAMPLE ITINERAY
Day 1 (July 8 or 10)
- Arrive in Pamplona
- Hotel check-in and orientation – Stop by to pick up your welcome packet including your RWB t-shirt, red bandana and waist sash
- Walking tour of the Running of the Bulls course with our staff
- Spanish happy hour with local wine and tapas (or pinchos as they are called in this part of Spain) at a local establishment.
Day 2 (July 9 or 11)
- Hit the streets to run with the bulls, or watch from one of our private balconies – Get ready to witness an event like no other.
- Enjoy the San Fermin Festival – Free day to enjoy the festive atmosphere of the city and the festival.
- Attend the first bull fight — shaded seating with snacks and drinks provided
- End of the Night Fireworks Shows – Not to be missed if you have the energy to stay awake. This is a free event held in the center of town.
Day 3 (July 10 or 12)
- Hit the streets to run with the bulls, or watch from one of our private balcony locations
- Departure Day – Continue your journey or join us in San Sebastian (the perfect add-on to any Bulls package – Transfers to San Sebastian are provided). Learn more about San Sebastian.
View Travel Packages
Closing Ceremonies: July 12-15
Pobre de me, the closing ceremonies of the San Fermin Festival, is a raucous good time. What better way to cap off an amazing trip than with a massive fireworks display and an all-night party?
While the week of San Fermin may be coming to close, the adventure and excitement continues throughout the city. Full of unique traditions not seen in the earlier festival dates, this is the least crowded time of the festival. This is perfect for those looking experience the San Fermin, but prefer to avoid the massive crowds that come with the opening days. Also, with that in mind, this is arguably the best time to test your luck in the streets. Less people in the streets means less obstacles and potential danger.
The final event of the San Fermin, known as “Pobre de me,” signals the conclusion to all of the annual festivities. There is a song that is chanted during the final night, which translates to “Poor me, poor me, for the fiesta of San Fermín has come to a close.” Many see this is a sad occasion, others are relieved as their bodies have reached their partying limits.
Join us for this intimate ceremony as we close out an amazing San Fermin in 2023.
Watch the whole city of Pamplona light up during the San Fermin closing ceremonies.
CLOSING CEREMONIES SAMPLE ITINERAY
Day 1 (July 12)
- Arrive in Pamplona
- Hotel check-in and orientation – Stop by to pick up your welcome packet including your RWB t-shirt, red bandana and waist sash
- Walking tour of the Running of the Bulls course with our staff
- Spanish happy hour with local wine and tapas (or pinchos as they are called in this part of Spain) at a local establishment.
- End of the Night Fireworks Shows – Not to be missed if you have the energy to stay awake. This is a free event held in the center of town
Day 2 (July 13)
- Hit the streets to run with the bulls, or watch from one of our private balconies – Get ready to witness an event like no other.
- Enjoy the San Fermin Festival – Free day to enjoy the festive atmosphere of the city and the festival.
- Dinner at a local Spanish restaurant – Join us as we taste the flavors of the region and indulge in the local dishes and wines in old town.
Day 3 (July 14)
- Hit the streets to run with the bulls, or watch from one of our private balconies – Get ready to witness an event like no other.
- Enjoy the San Fermin Festival – Free day to enjoy the festive atmosphere of the city and the festival.
- Attend the first bull fight — shaded seating with snacks and drinks provided
- Pobre De Mi Closing Ceremony. All good things must come to an end. We will gather on our private balcony to experience the closing ceremonies as the city lights up with candles
- End of the Night Fireworks Shows – Not to be missed if you have the energy to stay awake. This is a free event held in the center of town and the final show of the festival is truly special.
Day 4 (July 15)
- Departure Day – Continue your journey or join us in San Sebastian (the perfect add-on to any Bulls package – Transfers to San Sebastian are provided). Learn more about San Sebastian.
View Travel Packages
With beaches like this, it’s easy to see why San Sebastian is among Europe’s most highly-rated destinations.
SAN SEBASTIAN, SPAIN EXPERIENCE (ADD-ON)
Located a mere 50 miles from Pamplona, the beautiful coastal city of San Sebastian, Spain is a highly recommended destination during your trip to Spain. With sparkling beaches, incredible architecture, and perhaps the best food in Europe, you’ll love spending the day exploring this delightful city.
In 2016, Travel + Leisure Magazine rated San Sebastian as the 4th best city in Europe.
In 2017, San Sebastian was featured on the show Parts Unknown with Anthony Bourdain. The popular host was completely blown away, and you can view his notes here.
COME FOR THE BEACHES… San Sebastian’s beaches are the city’s claim to fame, especially in summer. The most central is the Concha, followed by the Ondareta, which together make up the Concha Bay. These two are the best for relaxing and sunning yourself with friends and family. If you’re looking for something a bit more intrepid, try the Zurriola, a spot favored by surfers. And if you’re looking for something extra remote, head out to Santa Clara Island.
…STAY FOR THE FOOD. San Sebastian has more Michelin Star restaurants per capita than any other city in Europe. Furthermore, the city is the center of Basque cuisine. Those who love to wine and dine will feel immediately at home in San Sebastian.
The Concha in San Sebastian
SAN SEBASTIAN ADD-ON SAMPLE ITINERAY
Day 1
- Bus Transfer from Pamplona to San Sebastian
- Hotel check-in – Luxury Seafront hotel
- We will arrive in time for lunch. Explore the old town, head to the beach, or simply relax with a drink in hand and enjoy the relaxed lifestyle.
- Pinchos Walking tour as they are called in this part of Spain – You’ll visit several locations to taste some of the most popular pinchos. Of course, no tasting would be complete without wine.
Day 2
- Enjoy your day at leisure. Afterall, the San Fermin festival is exhausting! Relax at the beach and take a swim just steps from the hotel entrance, wander the old city and walk the Corniche, hike the scenic trails surrounding the city and coastline, or eat your way through the different neighborhoods experiencing all of the tasty dishes of the region.
- With so many great restaurants, we recommend having a seafood dinner next the harbor, having pinchos at one of our favorite local establishments, or dining at one of the many Michelin Star restaurants. Whatever you choose, you will not be disappointed.
- Ending your night with a cocktail next to the Ocean is one of our team’s favorite things.
Day 3
- Departure Day – Continue your journey. Today you will depart San Sebastian. Guests typically depart via private car, bus, train, or nearby San Sebastian airport. Safe travels.
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“”We could not have been more impressed with Bucket List Events during the Running of the Bulls this past summer. Toby and his staff were exceptional. They were knowledgeable, accommodating, fun, and very inclusive. It was an unforgettable experience, with great memories and great people to share it with. I will look forward to checking more items off my Bucket List with this company!!
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