As soon as we got off our train we grabbed a taxi to our hotel and went straight into the city center to find our tour organizer. We bought this expensive San Fermin Fiesta Package 3 years ago and have been counting the days since for this to happen. The package included a private balcony on day one to watch the opening ceremony, a balcony on day 2 to watch the first running of the bulls, a balcony on day 3 for Alyssa to watch the running of the bulls while I ran, 2 tickets to the bull fights on day 2 and the red and white shirt, sash and bandana that everyone wears 24/7 during the 8 day fiesta. I also had added on a walking tour with a professional runner. After checking in and getting our event tickets we grabbed a bite to eat and walked around the city until 5pm when I met with Dennis, a 14 year veteran of the run and the most accomplished and well known American runner. I spent 2 hours with him walking the route that the bull run takes place on. He explained the history and then gave me tons of valuable advice on how to have a successful run and not die. I came away super excited.
The next morning, we found our way to the apartment with our balcony and met our host. She had a nice spread of snacks for us with lots of Sangria. She had 2 balconies and there were 10 of us so we had plenty of room. Our balcony was directly across the street from town hall so we could see inside as the mayor and his crew were getting ready. We arrived at 10 and watched as the crowd poured into the main square in front of town hall. By noon the square was packed. It was the most insane crowd I have ever seen. As crowded as it was there was an amazing vibe. National pride and people just wanting to gel and have a good time. I have been to NYE in Times Square and Australia and neither compared to this atmosphere. Everyone was singing and cheering together as one. A national pride missing in the US these days. We spent the rest of the day just walking around enjoying the fiesta and eating.
