Running of the Bulls Opening Ceremonies: El Chupinazo

Rockets, champagne, music, and unbridled excitement are hallmarks of the Running of the Bulls Opening Ceremonies in Pamplona, Spain. In terms of wild partying, it doesn’t get much crazier than opening day of the Sanfermines Fiesta.

The Official Start of San Fermin

San Fermin Opening Ceremonies

Every year on July 6th, Pamplona bursts to life for the San Fermin Festival which officially kicks off with the Opening Ceremonies, known in Spain as El Chupinazo (or Txupinazo in Basque). At noon, the San Fermin Festival officially kicks off when a rocket is fired from the balcony of Pamplona’s Town Hall. For both locals and visitors, this moment is the most anticipated day of the year and is easily the most popular day of the fiesta.

As the festival begins, the quiet streets of Pamplona fill with travelers and locals dressed in the traditional uniform: camisa blanca (white shirt), faja roja (red sash/scarf), and pañuelo rojo (red bandana) all gather in Plaza Consistorial (Town Hall Square) and the surrounding streets. As the rocket launches, the Mayor and members of the City Council will shout from a balcony these thrilling words: “Pamploneses, Pamplonesas, Viva San Fermin! Gora San Fermin!”, while the crowd erupts in loud and exciting cheers, scarves are waved high, and champagne and sangria spray through the air until everyone is soaked.

What to expect at El Chupinazo

A HUGE Crowd: By 10:30 AM, Plaza Consistorial is filled shoulder-to-shoulder with thousands of travelers and locals. White shirts quickly turn pink from the rivers of wine, and the atmosphere builds with chants, songs, and music. Others watch from above from a San Fermin Balcony Rental to get a clear view away from the crowds, making an Opening Ceremonies balcony ideal for families to get to see from a great viewpoint.

As the Opening Ceremonies begin you can expect this order of events:

1. The Mayors Words

Just before noon, the Mayor and City Council step onto the balcony and cry out, “Pamploneses, Pamplonesas, Viva San Fermín! Gora San Fermín!” The crowd responds in echoing cheers.

2. The Rocket

A single rocket shoots into the sky, marking the start of the fiesta. Since 1941, this tradition has been passed down, with elected officials or even local celebrities the honor of launching the rocket.

3. The Celebration

Immediately after, chaos turns into pure excitement and celebration. Buckets of water are tossed from balconies, bottles of cava explode, and the city’s nine-day celebration officially begins.

Where to watch the Opening Ceremonies

In the Square

If you are looking to be in the center of all of the action, join the crowd in Plaza Consistorial. It is best to arrive before 11:00 AM to secure a spot, and leave your valuables at your hotel. Expect to leave the opening ceremonies soaked and stained with sangria and cava, and don’t forget to wear the traditional uniform which comes with all of the Running of the Bulls travel packages. Closed-toed shoes are strongly recommended as well, as many drinks being tossed about come in glass bottles and some end up broken!

Being in the middle of everything is super exciting, but if you have kids or crowds make you nervous you may prefer the safety and view from a balcony.

From a Balcony (Recommended)

A Bull Run Balcony offers a safer and more comfortable view, especially for families, as it keeps you out of the crowd and craziness but also offers a birds eye view so you don’t miss any of the excitement. On the balcony you can still participate in the festivities with cava, snacks, and others while being a little more secure and having a little more space! The picture to the side is a view from one of out balconies! Its a GREAT view!

Opening Ceremonies view from a Running of the Bulls Balcony

Around Town

Around the town of Pamplona there are many giant screens that broadcast the event in locations like Paseo de Sarasate, Parque de Antoniutti, Plaza del Castillo, and Plaza de los Fueros, so you can watch the spectacle if you decide not to physically be there!

Running of the Bulls Tips for Opening Ceremonies

    • Wear the traditional attire (white clothes with a red scarf and sash)

    • Leave bags and valuables behind; it’s very easy to lose things in such a large crowd.

    • Expect to get messy: champagne, sangria, and water will drench you.

    • Balconies sell out early reserves in advance for the best experience.

Opening Ceremony Packages & Balconies

The Running of the Bulls offers exclusive Opening Ceremony travel packages, that include premium balcony spaces so you get a great view (even include the option to upgrade to a VIP Balcony Space, or privatize an entire balcony for your group)! With decades of experience and a dedicated local team, we ensure your San Fermín adventure is safe, seamless, and unforgettable.

Click below to Reserve a Running of the Bulls travel package, or here to reach out to our expert travel advisors for more details, customized packages, or VIP upgrades. Opening Ceremonies are always the first set of packages to sell out, so don’t wait to reserve your spot for the Opening Ceremonies Packages and experience El Chupinazo the best way.

Shop Opening Ceremonies Travel Packages


Modern Castle Resort Opening Ceremonies Package

Price range: 4,880.00 USD through 8,255.00 USD

  • Hotel: 4-star in Pamplona’s Countryside
  • Distance to Bull Run: 15-minute shuttle
  • Length of Stay: 3 nights
  • Chances to Run: 2 mornings
  • Opening Ceremonies Balcony overlooking plaza with direct view of Town Hall
  • Bull Run Balcony Spot: Level 3 or 4 view
  • Bullfight Ticket: Lower Deck Tendido Seats
  • Breakfast: Included every morning
  • Meals: Cuadrilla Dinner hosted by Running of the Bulls® & VIP Fireworks Party
  • Walking Tour: Bull Run Tour with Expert Runner
  • Premium Apparel Package: 1591™ Polo or T-Shirt, bandana and sash
  • Concierge: Our team member in your hotel lobby
  • Arrival Date: July 5, 2026 – Departure Date: July 8, 2026

This premium package includes everything you need to make the most of the opening days of the Running of the Bulls. Stay at the Hotel Castillo de Gorraiz, a sophisticated golf and spa resort located in the tranquility of the countryside around Pamplona.

From the minute you book with us to the minute you arrive in Pamplona, we will be with you every step of the way to help make sure you have a flawless Fiesta. Our team of 35 guides surrounds you with support at every key moment but know when to back off and let you enjoy the freedom to explore Pamplona.

We escort you to your balcony to view the morning bull run (when it is easy to get lost in the chaos). With our app, we are always only a message away when you have questions or need help.

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Premier City Center Opening Ceremonies Package

Price range: 7,195.00 USD through 14,495.00 USD

  • Hotel: 4-star in Pamplona City Center
  • Distance to Bull Run: 1 Minute Walk
  • Length of Stay: 3 nights
  • Chances to Run: 2 mornings
  • Txupinazo Opening Ceremonies Balcony
  • Bull Run Balcony Spot: Level 1 or 2 View
  • Bullfight Ticket: Lower Deck Tendido Seats
  • Meals: Cuadrilla Dinner hosted by Running of the Bulls® & VIP Fireworks Party
  • Breakfast: Included every morning
  • Pamplona Cathedral Tour & Welcome Tapas
  • Walking Tour: Bull Run Tour with Expert Runner
  • Premium Apparel Package: 1591™ Polo or T-Shirt, bandana and sash
  • Concierge: Our team member in your hotel lobby
  • Arrival Date: July 5, 2026 – Departure Date: July 8, 2026

This premium package includes everything you need to make the most of the opening days of the Running of the Bulls. Stay at the recently renovated Hotel Maisonnave, founded in 1883, which has a rich connection to the festival. It is a tradition among many of the matadors to stay here, due to the short walk to the bull ring.

From the minute you book with us to the minute you arrive in Pamplona, we will be with you every step of the way to help make sure you have a flawless Fiesta. Our team of 35 guides surrounds you with support at every key moment but know when to back off and let you enjoy the freedom to explore Pamplona.

We escort you to your balcony to view the morning bull run (when it is easy to get lost in the chaos). In addition, you can easily message us through our app when you have questions or need help.

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Famous Luxury Hotel Opening Ceremonies Package

Price range: 18,861.00 USD through 28,480.00 USD

  • Hotel: 5-star in Pamplona City Center
  • Distance to Bull Run: On the bull run route
  • Length of Stay: 3 nights
  • Opening Ceremony Balcony Spots: VIP Terrace
  • Bull Run Balcony Spots: Dead Man’s Curve Level 1 or 2 view for 1 day
  • Chances to Run: 2 mornings
  • Bullfight Tickets: Premium Tendido Shade Seats
  • Walking Tour: Bull Run Tour with Expert Runner
  • Pamplona Cathedral Tour
  • Meals: Cuadrilla Dinner hosted by Running of the Bulls® & VIP Fireworks Party + Tapas & Wine Event
  • Premium Apparel Package: 1591™ Polo or T-Shirt, bandana and sash
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Pamplona Airport or Train Station to Gran Hotel La Perla
  • Private Departure Transfer: Gran Hotel La Perla to Pamplona Airport or Train Station
  • Arrival Date: July 5, 2026 – Departure Date: July 8, 2026

This premium package includes everything you need to make the most of the liveliest opening days of the Running of the Bulls. Stay at Gran Hotel La Perla, a world-class hotel known for hosting San Fermin’s famous figures, right in Pamplona’s city center. The hotel’s location on Plaza del Castillo is perfect for enjoying the fiesta. With our highest-end package, experience unparalleled service, the most prized views of the bull run, and Premium Tendido Shade Bullfight Tickets.

From the minute you book with us to the minute you arrive in Pamplona, we will be with you every step of the way to help make sure you have a flawless Fiesta. Our team of 35 guides surrounds you with support at every key moment, but also know when to back off so you can enjoy the freedom to explore Pamplona.

Each morning, we escort you to your balcony to view the morning bull run (when it is easy to get lost in the chaos). In addition, you can easily message us through our app when you have questions or need help.

Due to the exclusive nature of Gran Hotel La Perla and its own no-refund policy for San Fermin bookings, this package is non-refundable. We highly recommend travel insurance for your booking.

Please Note:
Each package listed is either Single (1 Guest), Double (2 Guests), or Triple (3 Guests). You’ll only need to change the Quantity below if you wish to book more than one package (e.g., a family of 4 might book two Double packages).

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FAQs for Our Opening Ceremonies Packages

What's Included In a Running of the Bulls Travel Package?

Each Running of the Bull Travel Package is built to include everything you need while in Pamplona for the Fiesta (even food if you choose the add-on). Our priority is your trip and making it as stress-free as possible so you can check it off on your bucket list.

Each package includes accommodations for your trip in city center or in the suburbs (depending on your preference and the package you purchase), balcony access for the bull run, tickets to evening bullfights, meals or dining events (varies per package), a guided walking tour of the Bull Run route, premium apparel (shirt, bandana, sash), and access to exclusive ROTB only guest-events! They also include access to an app for your itinerary and easy access to help or questions via the app’s messaging! We also help guide you through the language barrier by having guides at our events, or translators when needed!

What dates can I book for The Running of the Bulls?

Running of the Bulls Travel Packages are split-up to offer packages for each section of the Fiesta: Opening Ceremonies (July 6-8), Mid-Fiesta (July 8-12), and Closing Ceremonies (July 12-14). On top of our general packages, you can also schedule a phone or zoom call and we can create a custom itinerary for you if you need different dates, or want a more customized itinerary!

How can I contact you with questions before or during my trip?

You can reach out via the “Pamplona Expert Travel Advice” form on the site prior to booking or give us a call where one of our Travel Experts can answer your questions! Once booked, you can call, email, or send us a message with any questions until you receive the app link with your itinerary, where we then kindly request that you use the messaging feature in the app to contact us directly.

Due to the fact that our team relocates to Spain during the Fiesta, we do ask that you use the in-app messaging feature to contact our team directly during the Fiesta, or stop by one of the Running of the Bulls Concierge desks, many will be located in the lobby of your hotel, but if not your app will tell you which one you should stop by.

Can the travel package be customized or upgraded?

Yes. While we do offer featured and standard packages, you can upgrade it by adding on add-ons like Lunch/Dinner or more tickets to events, you can also contact us to create a customized, group, or VIP travel package!

How many guests does a travel package cover?

Most packages are priced per person and have single, double, or triple occupancy options (due to the fact that hotel rooms in Pamplona only sleep up to 3 people). So for a larger family you may need to purchase more than one package and when booking let us know so we can organize connecting or close proximity rooms. For larger groups like business corporation groups, adventure groups, very large family groups, etc are not included in these travel packages, so please contact us for Running of the Bulls Group Travel Packages so we can help you create the trip you need to cover all of your guests!

What is the cancellation or refund policy?

Some packages are non-refundable, particularly VIP packages or Large Customized Packages. Other packages follow our cancellation policy :

In the event of cancellation, refunds will be made, less cancellation charges and administrative fees, based on the schedule below:

Before September 15, 2025: 75% Refund of cancelled portion
Before December 1, 2025: 50% Refund of cancelled portion
Before March 1, 2026: 25% Refund of cancelled portion
March 1, 2026, and after: All Bookings are Non-Refundable
All cancellations, name transfers, and changes are subject to a $100 administration fee.

To read more about our cancellation policy, you can read more here.

Is travel insurance included?

Running of the Bulls does not provide travel insurance and though not required, travel insurance is highly recommended. As we get closer to the fiesta, our refund policy does not include a full refund so insurance helps cover unforeseen disruptions, last minute cancellations, natural disasters, and most travel insurances also cover any wellness needs during your trip (check the official policies to see what each company covers).

How do flights, train rides, and arrival/departure logistics work and are they included?

Running of the Bulls does not provide or book flight or train tickets, but we can give you advice on what the options are. Your itinerary will include the hotel check-in/out times and instructions for getting around.

Running of the Bulls in most cases does not provide car services, unless you book an exclusive VIP package. Unless you book one of these packages we highly suggest that you pre-book transfer services, as car share services such as uber and lyft are not available in Pamplona, Spain like they are in the U.S. and due to the massive crowds taxis may also be difficult to catch.

How and When do I get my detailed itinerary?

Once you purchase a package, you’ll receive a detailed itinerary link (via email) to download the Trip Plans App and Open your itinerary. This link will be sent out 30 days before your arrival date. Through the app, you can access your schedule, get live updates, and message the team directly.

What does local support and guides look like in Spain?

Running of the Bulls provides guides and local support during your time in Spain. What this includes while you are in Spain is ROTB concierge desks in many hotels, availability to contact us anytime via the app, guided tours, local experts on balconies to explain what is going on, and guides at any ROTB official event you attend.

If you would like additional support while in Pamplona, we do offer the option to book a private concierge that can attend events with you, take you around the city center, and help guide you around the city and to events.