Almodóvar del Campo bull running festivities begin

Crescencio Rabanal Sánchez, honored as the 2026 Runner of the Year, officially launched the bull running festivities in Almodóvar del Campo by lighting the first 'chupinazo'. The event marks the start of five days of traditional bull runs, which are recognized as one of the oldest in Spain and a regional tourist interest festival.

Mayor José Lozano noted that the festivities involve 16 fighting bulls from the province of Cáceres. Local authorities have issued calls for prudence, urging participants to avoid alcohol and dangerous substances to ensure safety during the runs.

Attendance is expected to surge toward the end of the week. While initial days see a local crowd, officials estimate that during the peak weekend, the population of the town could quintuple, reaching approximately 30,000 visitors.