Valencian Government Allocates Funds for Bull-Running Festivals and Launches Digital Commerce Vouchers

The Generalitat Valenciana has earmarked more than €700,000 in its 2026 budget to support traditional "bous al carrer" (bull‑running) events. The allocation includes €250,000 for municipalities to adapt to new safety regulations, €150,000 for training schools for recortadors, €120,000 for promotional and safety initiatives, €100,000 for permanent third‑category bullrings, €50,000 for educational activities and €60,000 for small towns with under 2,000 residents. The new regulation, set to take effect on 1 January 2027, tightens inspection and medical requirements for the festivals, which in 2025 saw 9,542 permits issued across 266 municipalities.

At the same time, the Valencia City Council has opened the application period for the 2026 Bonos Comercio VLC programme. The scheme will issue 46,041 digital vouchers worth €50 each, with buyers paying €25 and the council matching the amount. Applications are accepted online until 3 August, with a notarial lottery to be held before 28 August. Selected participants can purchase vouchers between 2 September and 15 November. The vouchers can be used via QR‑code in participating local shops, aiming to stimulate neighbourhood consumption and support small businesses.