San Fermín: The Festival of Joy

Sometimes the San Fermin Festival in Pamplona can be perceived as chaotic and far too wild. But is not so, on the contrary, its de Festival of  "Joy" and "Solidarity". Take my word for this as I´m not keen on big crowds but I have enjoyed San Fermin Fiesta for over thirty years!

Chupinazo

Although most risks appear to be around those wounded during the daily Running of the Bulls I can tell that the worst ones are for those driving intoxicated and with excess alcohol consumption. The police presence is immense: they are police controls on the motorway when you access to Pamplona as well as other policeman dressed in plainclothes that mixes with people on the main events.

Last year, before the Opening Ceremony (Chupinazo), on one of the streets next to the City Hall (where the Chupinazo takes place), there were tense moments before the deployment of a large Ikurriña (Basque Country Flag with a lot of independent content depending where its shown). Some youngsters threw few bottles and a girl from Madrid was wounded but although they were thousands of people at the Consistorial Plaza in that moment, the police managed to identify and arrest last September the alleged perpetrators.

Campaign..during San Fermín

Pamplona’s City Council promotes once again the campaign “And during the Festival… What?. Promoted by the Government of Navarre through the Navarra´s County Family and Equality Institute (INAFI). 

This time it does it with a self-image using the male big-headed carnival figure "Caravinagre" hanging up the San Fermin clothing and the female big-headed figure named "Japanese" rejecting the flirts of a young runner. This campaign pursues two objectives: Join responsibilities in house working tasks and prevention of sexual arrestment.

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San Fermin Festival is getting closer!!!

In 19 days the Chupinazo (Opening Ceremony) will take place! Meanwhile the final preparations of San Fermin 20014 accelerate. El fence that marks the Running of the Bulls itinerary is already in place and the bars and restaurants have already start advertising special lunches for the 6^th July (Opening Ceremony Day) and hotels continue to receive reservations.

Javier Pelegrín a renowned local jeweller with 46 years of this occupation on his back,  delivered the Saint Mithra´s on San Fermín Chapel. A job that has lived as for him this has been a dream that.

The Mithra and crosier symbolize his status as bishop, the first Bishop of Pamplona (XXII century).

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The Tómbola

The yearly Caritas Raffle took place on last Saturday in May. Caritas is the most important non-profitable organization in Navarra´s County. All those working in the Raffle do it so voluntarily. The ticket price remains the same as in previous years: 80 cents. The raffle is installed in Paseo de Sarasate (one of the main streets in Pamplona)

This year they have introduced some variations in the Raffle design because in recent years many of the best raffle prizes didn´t have their number withdrawn therefore they weren´t winners. As Caritas main objective is to have winners for all the prizes, changes have been made to ensure that all the items could be consulted and enjoyable for the winners. With this idea in mind, some prizes have become direct: 5 Volkswagen cars

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The Fair during San Fermin.

In 27th June they will start installing the fairgrounds in the Parque de Runa. This will only be available during the San Fermin Festival. They will start by installing the amusements that require longer assembly; being in this case two different roller coasters: a traditional one and a water one. The official opening of the exhibition will be on Friday July 4.

The Rune Park is in La Rochapea´s neighborhood very close to Arga´s river. It´s only ten minutes away from Pamplona´s city center. For those that are tired and don´t want to walk there is a public elevator that connects the Old Town with showground.

So as you can see San Fermin Festival is not only about finding the best rent balcony for the Running of the Bulls, Bullfighting or drinking. There are many other activities to be done and enjoy!

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO RENT A SPOT FROM A PRIVILEGED BALCONY, RIGHT IN THE DEAD MAN CORNER, TO WATCH THE RUNNING OF THE BULLS IN SAN FERMIN FESTIVAL, LOG IN THIS LINK AND YOU WILL BE AMAZED!

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Do not get robbed during San Fermín Festivity!

During the San Fermin Festival and other fiestas, increases the presence of pickpockets who, taking advantage of the crowds, try to steal the belongings of all those distracted while enjoying the unique festive atmosphere. Therefore, the Regional Police Force have released a number of useful tips and recommendations in order to prevent people becoming a victim of thieves during the San Fermin festivities.

First of all, the police warns that pickpockets working perfectly organized. Usually do not use violence or intimidation and act in central locations and in areas where many people gather, such as concerts, bars or public events. So before you leave home take what is necessary in a safe, better front trouser pockets in the rear if they lack the button or shirt instead. If you need to carry personal documents, replace official copy, leaving the original in place of residence, hotel or slogan.

Therefore, before leaving home take with you what is strictly necessary in a safe place. Place it better in the front pockets of your trouser instead of the rear ones or in your shirt if the pocket can be tied. If you need to carry personal documents, replace them with a certified copy, leaving the original in the hotel or wherever you will be staying.

And remember, if you have been the victim of a pickpocket do not hesitate to report to the Provincial Police Force ASAP!

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO RENT A SPOT FROM A PRIVILEGED BALCONY, RIGHT IN THE DEAD MAN CORNER, TO WATCH THE RUNNING OF THE BULLS IN SAN FERMIN FESTIVAL, LOG IN THIS LINK AND YOU WILL BE AMAZED!

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Giant Fun Fair

The largest European removable Funfair returns for the third consecutive year to Pamplona. Its complex assembly will begin next Monday. Looks like the idea is to star functioning for the last weekend of this month as it was confirmed by the Department of Public Safety of Pamplona´s City Hall.  

This enormous funfair is 70 meters in height and it will be located as previous years in Antoniutti´s Park, close to La Taconera Gardens.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO RENT A SPOT FROM A PRIVILEGED BALCONY, RIGHT IN THE DEAD MAN CORNER, TO WATCH THE RUNNING OF THE BULLS IN SAN FERMIN FESTIVAL, LOG IN THIS LINK AND YOU WILL BE AMAZED!

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The previos week to The San Fermín

The previous week to the San Fermin Festival begins the countdown and you can feel how the city and local people and business are getting ready. Shopping must be done, the cleaning "in depth" takes place, summer courses, concerts and conferences are programmed. 

The city is boiling with the early presence of many tourists. Many local people say that this prior week of preparation for San Fermin Festival is one of the most beautiful times of the year. This is said especially for those locals that decide to leave Pamplona and go to the beach during San Fermin Festival so they avoid all the crowds that are looking forward to experience the famous running of the bulls.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO RENT A SPOT FROM A PRIVILEGED BALCONY, RIGHT IN THE DEAD MAN CORNER, TO WATCH THE RUNNING OF THE BULLS IN SAN FERMIN FESTIVAL, LOG IN THIS LINK AND YOU WILL BE AMAZED!

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San Fermín. Concerts

Every single night during the San Fermín Festival, you will find all the people gathering at Plaza Castillo (next to Estafeta St) for the free concerts. There is a large permanent stage from 6 to 14 July where groups for Rock & Roll to Pop Music will play depending the day.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO RENT A SPOT FROM A PRIVILEGED BALCONY, RIGHT IN THE DEAD MAN CORNER, TO WATCH THE RUNNING OF THE BULLS IN SAN FERMIN FESTIVAL, LOG IN THIS LINK AND YOU WILL BE AMAZED!

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Pamplona and San Fermín

If today we took a walk in Pamplona you could tell that we have few days left for San Fermin! In most of the city shops, the windows are decorated with the San Fermin Festival theme and obviously the predominant colours are white and red. Another sign that the San Fermin Festival is approaching is that the Caritas Gair (Navarra´s main charity organization to help people in need), was installed in June at the Paseo de Sarasate and it will be removed for late July as this main street has to be free during San Fermin Festival. It's a tradition to buy tickets in this tombola. There are direct prizes and several cars will be given away as some holiday packages. Few days ago I bought 5 tickets (each one at 0.80 €), 4 of them was for the cars and one ticket for a prize of viewing a picture in the cinema for 2 people. I think it´s important to know that all the staff working in the raffle does it voluntarily.

In the streets among the San Fermin Running of the Bulls itinerary it´s all very lively right now as all those that we live among these streets we have start to thoroughly wash up our balconies and windows so everything is ready for our visitors. I must say it´sa bit tiring as we are located in the Dead Man Corner and have 8 spots in total, 6 overlooking Estafeta and 2  Mercederes St.! But I know is worth while as I love to have everyone experiencing the best San Fermin Festival!  ;-) I can also see how all the bars and restaurants are being provided with all the food and drinks, well mainly drinks as this is the main area for drinking rather than eating.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO RENT A SPOT FROM A PRIVILEGED BALCONY, RIGHT IN THE DEAD MAN CORNER, TO WATCH THE RUNNING OF THE BULLS IN SAN FERMIN FESTIVAL, LOG IN THIS LINK AND YOU WILL BE AMAZED!

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San Fermín Uniform

During San Fermin Festival is traditional to be dressed in the “Traje de Pamplonica” (Pamplona´s local people are called Pamplonica and they wear a special outfit during San Fermin) this is: white, shirt, pants, skirt or dress, and a red sash and scarf. Almost everyone has the so-called "uniform" for the festivities, creating a colourful red and white overlook. No one knows exactly what the origin of this outfit is, and who has designed it, but the truth is that it helps to integrate everyone into the party. The simplicity of this festive attire makes both locals and outsiders use it and create real humantides of white and red.

The tradition stands very clearly to tie the scarf once the Chupinazo (6th July) has taken place and opens up de San Fermin Festival until the Poor of Me (14th July) the last San Fermin celebration until the following San Fermin Festival.  As for its meaning and symbolism there is no agreement and different versions coexist. The tradition includes the red scarf as a reminder of San Fermin´s Martyrdom, which as we explain on this blog already, he was beheaded in the city of Amiens, during the persecutions of the third century. Red symbolizes the blood of the saint, but at the same time some other point at the resemblance with Navarra´s Flag.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO RENT A SPOT FROM A PRIVILEGED BALCONY, RIGHT IN THE DEAD MAN CORNER, TO WATCH THE RUNNING OF THE BULLS IN SAN FERMIN FESTIVAL, LOG IN THIS LINK AND YOU WILL BE AMAZED!

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The Comparsa, second part

The first data that is spoken of a troupe of Pamplona Giants Parade is back to 1600. In 1657, Francisco de Azpillaga manufactured 8 of them and 2 litlle Gigants (smaller version of Giants). It seems that the Cathedral and Town hall used to have their very own Giants during the XVII and XVII century. But in 1780, Charles the III of Spain decided to get rid off them during the religious procession in all the different religious acts, considering them a distraction for the faith. This was the beginning of their decadence and eventually ended on their destruction.  

New York 1965

1965. New York In 1860, the Navarra’s painter, Thaddeus Amorena, sent a letter to City Council proposing the construction of new Giants with the same size that existed, but lighter and with academic proportions. He created the Europeans couple, presented to the City and they were so convinced of his good skill thatthey ordered the rest of them.Las figures that nowadays conform the Parade, were acquired over the years, this explains the aesthetic differences  between them.

In 1965 the Giants Parade was invited New York, for the International Fair that year was presented under the motto "Peace through Understanding." The Fair organizers asked for only one condition, they couldn´t bring the pair of Black Gigants, what a paradox! As for this author these giants represented America. Finally only the couples of Europe, Asia and Africa marched through the Fifth Avenue. Those who had the clearest complexion.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO RENT A SPOT FROM A PRIVILEGED BALCONY, RIGHT IN THE DEAD MAN CORNER, TO WATCH THE RUNNING OF THE BULLS IN SAN FERMIN FESTIVAL, LOG IN THIS LINK AND YOU WILL BE AMAZED!

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The Comparsa, first part

The procession of the King´s and their representatives is wel know as the masquerade of Gigantes (giants) and Cabezudos (big headed puppets). The kings and the queens are scorted by cabezudos, kilikis and zaldikos (horses). These twenty-five-paper-maché figures entertain the children and adults every morning in the centre. The giants are the oldest of the figures, datin back to 1850.

 They are worn or carried by dancers and can measure up to 4´2 metres in heigth and weigh betwen 59 to 64 kilos. The giants are composed of four couples, a king and queen pertaining to América, Africa, Europe and Asia. They dance to the gaita and tamboril as they move through the streets. The kilikis represent the courtship of the town councilors and their mission is to scare and amuse the town. Armed whit sponge sacks they target the youngest of the town with friendly poundings.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO RENT A SPOT FROM A PRIVILEGED BALCONY, RIGHT IN THE DEAD MAN CORNER, TO WATCH THE RUNNING OF THE BULLS IN SAN FERMIN FESTIVAL, LOG IN THIS LINK AND YOU WILL BE AMAZED!

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The Comparsa, secon part

The first data that is spoken of a troupe of Pamplona Giants Parade is back to 1600. In 1657, Francisco de Azpillaga manufactured 8 of them and 2 litlle Gigants (smaller version of Giants). It seems that the Cathedral and Town hall used to have their very own Giants during the XVII and XVII century. But in 1780, Charles the III of Spain decided to get rid off them during the religious procession in all the different religious acts, considering them a distraction for the faith. This was the beginning of their decadence and eventually ended on their destruction.  

• 1965. New York In 1860, the Navarra’s painter, Thaddeus Amorena, sent a letter to City Council proposing the construction of new Giants with the same size that existed, but lighter and with academic proportions. He created the Europeans couple, presented to the City and they were so convinced of his good skill thatthey ordered the rest of them.Las figures that nowadays conform the Parade, were acquired over the years, this explains the aesthetic differences  between them.

In 1965 the Giants Parade was invited New York, for the International Fair that year was presented under the motto "Peace through Understanding." The Fair organizers asked for only one condition, they couldn´t bring the pair of Black Gigants, what a paradox! As for this author these giants represented America. Finally only the couples of Europe, Asia and Africa marched through the Fifth Avenue. Those who had the clearest complexion.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO RENT A SPOT FROM A PRIVILEGED BALCONY, RIGHT IN THE DEAD MAN CORNER, TO WATCH THE RUNNING OF THE BULLS IN SAN FERMIN FESTIVAL, LOG IN THIS LINK AND YOU WILL BE AMAZED!

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"Las Peñas" in San Fermin

"Las peñas" are associations throug wich the members organise activities, predominantly for San Fermin but also for the rest of the year. Most of the Peñas have locals in Jarauta Street. One of their "services" is running vibrant bars where people meet for the corrida, to eat, to drink and dance. They are open almost 24 hours a day. The 17 Peñas that exist are an indispensable part of fiesta.

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San Fermín

Worship of San Fermín in Pamplona took place before the Sanfermines, and his image is still the focus around which this universal fiesta revolves According to tradition, a presbyter called Honesto arrived in Roman Pamplona in the 3rd century. He had been sent by San Saturnino (also known as San Cernín) to evangelise the city and he converted senator Firmo and his family to the Christian faith.

 His son Fermín was christened by San Saturnino at the place now known as the pocico de San Cernin (little well of San Cernín) and was ordained into the priesthood in Toulouse (France). He returned to Pamplona as Bishop and died, decapitated, in Amiens, where he baptised more than 3,000 people.

According to tradition, San Fermín was the first Bishop of Pamplona, although his veneration is not recorded until the 12th century thanks to litanies from Amiens, in which he appeared from the 8th century onwards.

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San Fermín. The Fireworks

From the 6th to the 14th of july, just as the night-life starts getting going, a breathking display of fire-works is orechertrasted from the castle Plaza and hundreds of locals and visitors gather to watch.

The park in the Castle Courtyard (La vuelta del Castillo) is the best place from which to enjoy the show whilst sitting on the grass and enjoying the summer air.

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San Fermín, The Procession

On July 7th, the feast of San Fermin, is the biggest day. The human outbreak on the 6 is followed by another act even more crowded if possible, although this has very different nature and very appreciated and loved by the Pamplona´scitizens. Thousands of people dressed in spotless white, accompany the statue of the Saint, which runs through out some Old Town streets accompanied by the Church Authorities.San Fermin leaves for few hours his retirement in the church of San Lorenzo and makes Pamplona a corridor of admiration, devotion and gratitude. Its time for tradition.

The image of San Fermin is a wood carving, a XV century reliquary that was trimmed in silver 1687. In its oval chest has few relics of St. Fermin. Usually it is exposed in the Church San Lorenzo.

Giants and big heads start the tour with the basque dancers. The municipal corporation together with the ecclesiastica l authorities all dressed in evening dresses are accompanying the beloved Saint. The band "La Pamplonesa" along with txistus (basque flute) and bagpipes enliven the journey.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO RENT A SPOT FROM A PRIVILEGED BALCONY, RIGHT IN THE DEAD MAN CORNER, TO WATCH THE RUNNING OF THE BULLS IN SAN FERMIN FESTIVAL, LOG IN THIS LINK AND YOU WILL BE AMAZED!

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San Fermín , "The Encierrillo"

This is the transference of the bulls from the further lying stalls from which the run begins. At 11 o´clock, in the night before the run with the bulls 440 metres quietly, calmly and unaccompanied to to the stalls in Santo Domingo . In order to see it one would have to collect tickets the Town Hall days before the event.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO RENT A SPOT FROM A PRIVILEGED BALCONY, RIGHT IN THE DEAD MAN CORNER, TO WATCH THE RUNNING OF THE BULLS IN SAN FERMIN FESTIVAL, LOG IN THIS LINK AND YOU WILL BE AMAZED!

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San Fermín and Pamplona

If today we took a walk in Pamplona you could tell that we have few days left for San Fermin! In most of the city shops, the windows are decorated with the San Fermin Festival theme and obviously the predominant colours are white and red. Another sign that the San Fermin Festival is approaching is that the Caritas Gair (Navarra´s main charity organization to help people in need), was installed in June at the Paseo de Sarasate and it will be removed for late July as this main street has to be free during San Fermin Festival. It's a tradition to buy tickets in this tombola. There are direct prizes and several cars will be given away as some holiday packages. Few days ago I bought 5 tickets (each one at 0.70 €), 4 of them was for the cars and one ticket for a prize of viewing a picture in the cinema for 2 people. I think it´s important to know that all the staff working in the raffle does it voluntarily.
In the streets among the San Fermin Running of the Bulls itinerary it´s all very lively right now as all those that we live among these streets we have start to thoroughly wash up our balconies and windows so everything is ready for our visitors. I must say it´sa bit tiring as we are located in the Dead Man Corner and have 8 spots in total, 6 overlooking Estafeta and 2  Mercederes St.! But I know is worth while as I love to have everyone experiencing the best San Fermin Festival!  ;-) I can also see how all the bars and restaurants are being provided with all the food and drinks, well mainly drinks as this is the main area for drinking rather than eating.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO RENT A SPOT FROM A PRIVILEGED BALCONY, RIGHT IN THE DEAD MAN CORNER, TO WATCH THE RUNNING OF THE BULLS IN SAN FERMIN FESTIVAL, LOG IN THIS LINK AND YOU WILL BE AMAZED!

www.sanferminbalconies.com