The Parliamentary Bullfighting Association has distinguished the bull runs of San Sebastián de los Reyes with one of its annual awards. This recognition celebrates a tradition that reached its five-hundredth anniversary in 2025. The award ceremony took place in the Spanish Senate, presided over by the President of the Upper House, Pedro Rollán, and the association's president, Miguel Cid.
The mayor of San Sebastián de los Reyes, Lucía S. Fernández, accepted the award on behalf of the City Council. Among those honored this year was also Her Royal Highness Infanta Elena of Spain.
Considered a benchmark in the Spanish bullfighting calendar, the bull runs of San Sebastián de los Reyes attract thousands of participants and spectators annually. According to City Council data, some days exceed 10,000 attendees, a figure amplified by live television broadcasts, making the celebration a highlight of the patron saint festivities.
Throughout their five centuries of history, the bull runs have only been suspended on three occasions: during the Spanish Civil War, in 1969 due to a legal dispute, and during the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the gala held at the Senate, Mayor Lucía S. Fernández emphasized the historical and cultural value of this tradition. She thanked the efforts of Civil Protection personnel, medical staff, Local Police, National Police, cleaning services, and the municipal departments of Festivals and Tourism, who are essential for the organization.
The councilwoman highlighted that the distinction recognizes a tradition declared a Cultural Heritage Site, passed down through generations, and which defines the city's identity both nationally and internationally.
The documented origin of this tradition dates back to March 24, 1525, when a provision signed by Charles V requested the Archdiocese of Toledo to return certain amounts collected from residents, including those related to 'running bulls.' This document is one of the earliest testimonies linked to the celebration.
Over time, the bull runs have become one of the main attractions of the Festivities in Honor of the Most Holy Christ of the Remedies, held annually at the end of August. Furthermore, for the past three years, San Sebastián de los Reyes has also organized bull runs in January, during the patron saint festivities honoring Saint Sebastian the Martyr, extending the presence of this tradition deeply rooted in the local identity.
