When it comes to pure joy and northern spirit, no event captures it better than the Sanfermines. From 6 to 14 July Pamplona turns into a whirlwind of tradition, music and camaraderie. For Grupo La Vasca, born with Basque‑Navarrese soul, telling the story of this festival is our way of honouring our roots and inviting you to share the excitement—even from Mallorca.
A tradition that became global
San Fermin, first bishop of Amiens, is said to have brought Christianity to Navarra. The Church fixed his feast day on 7 July, and locals—fond of summer livestock fairs and bull festivities—blended the religious date with their own celebrations. By the late 1500s the formula we know today was born: nine days of encierros, processions, brass bands, culture and, of course, food.
El Chupinazo: when Pamplona’s heart explodes
At noon on 6 July a rocket—the chupinazo—is fired from the City Hall balcony, signalling the official start of the party. In seconds the square turns red‑and‑white: neckerchiefs in the air, wine everywhere and a single roar of ¡Viva San Fermín! That brief, endless moment sums up the San Fermin spirit: brotherhood and unbridled joy.
The encierro: 875 metres of adrenaline
Every morning at 8 am six fighting bulls run through the old town toward the bullring. Runners—mozos—dash ahead, guided by tradition and pounding hearts. The sprint lasts under three minutes, yet its magnetism draws people from all over the globe. Watching it live—or even on screen—shows why Ernest Hemingway fell in love with Pamplona and immortalised it in The Sun Also Rises.
San Fermin gastronomy
San Fermin also means pintxos. From early doors bars lay out counters packed with gildas, tortillas, croquettes, chistorra and, yes, the classic fried‑calamari roll. Everything is washed down with Navarra wine or, inevitably, kalimotxo. Food fuels revellers between events and turns strangers into friends.
Tips to live San Fermin 2025—here or there
Travelling to Pamplona? Book accommodation months ahead and wear comfy shoes: the nights are as long as they are unforgettable. Staying in Mallorca? Drop by any of our restaurants, tie on a red kerchief and raise a chilled txakoli. The key is the same: celebrate life with great company.
San Fermin 2025 is almost here. In Pamplona streets will echo with brass bands, and in Palma glasses will clink to the cry of Gora San Fermin! Whether runner, spectator or bon vivant, Grupo La Vasca has a table ready. Toast with us to the North’s most iconic fiesta!