Famous Running of the Bulls Festival Kicks Off in Pamplona
The San Fermín festival, famous for the running of the bulls, began on Tuesday in Pamplona, Spain, attracting thousands of participants and spectators.
The annual San Fermín festival in Pamplona, Spain, kicked off on Tuesday with the first of eight bull runs. The tradition dates back to 1911, with six fighting bulls released each morning at 8 a.m. through the narrow streets of the old town, racing toward the bullring. Daring participants run alongside the bulls, often armed only with rolled-up newspapers, though many break the rules by touching the animals.
The origins of the bull runs can be traced back to the 16th century, but the event gained worldwide fame thanks to Ernest Hemingway's novel "The Sun Also Rises." This year marks the 100th anniversary of the novel's publication, which not only made Hemingway famous but also inspired thousands of people from around the world to experience the festival in person. In addition to the bull runs, the festival features concerts, parades, and other entertainment.
Animal rights activists have been protesting the bull runs for years, but so far they have not succeeded in having the event canceled.
