I want to run with the bulls. How does it work?

First, get in line behind the cut-off/start line on Mercaderes Street. The curve at Plaza Consistorial where the Txupinazo Opening Ceremonies take place is a good location. Be there by 7:00 a.m. at the latest or you risk not finding a spot.
Around 8:00 a.m. you will have a chance to move around the course and get into position. First time runners usually fare well on Estafeta Street because it is comparatively “easy” due to its straight, even ground. The end gets more densely packed than the beginning.
Wait for the rocket shots. The first shot signals that the gates have been opened and the bulls are running. The second shot tells you that the last bull has left the corrals. Many people will start running at this point even though the bulls are not in sight. If you get to the bullfight arena way before the bulls, be prepared to face a laughing audience.
When you see the bulls, run ahead or alongside them. Get out of their way when you are tired. Do not touch the bulls as it is regarded as disrespectful and unprofessional to distract the bulls. Avoid holding on to other people or running with your head turned backwards because that is how pile ups begin.
If you want to run into the arena (Plaza de Toros), we recommend that you run in the last part of Estafeta Street. You are not required to run the full route and attempting to do so will most likely not allow you to enter the arena as you must stay in front of the bulls for this because, once the bulls pass, barriers close off the street to prevent the bulls from doubling back. The bulls are much faster than humans and, additionally, there are thousands of other people running with the same goal. The gates, located at Dead Man’s Corner and at Telefonica, close behind the last bull. In order to run well, you must decide where you prefer to run, wait there and then run with the bulls as they head to your location. Try to be close to the bull but then you must exit the race.