Running of the Bulls (Fiesta de San Fermín)

This is probably Spain’s most famous festival, and is a magnet for thrill-seekers and spectators alike. Hundreds of thousands of Spanish and international visitors don white shirts and red bandanas for some serious partying. The bravest (or most foolhardy) line up to engage in a mad dash ahead of rampaging bulls careering through narrow cobbled streets. Luckily the runners have a newspaper to protect themselves with. By night the squares are strung with fairy lights for drinking, eating and dancing; there are fireworks and brass bands.