Encierros de Cuéllar

Introduction and local significance

Los Encierros de Cuéllar are held in the Segovian town of Cuéllar (Castilla y León) and constitute one of the most relevant bullfighting cultural manifestations in Spain. In this edition, the festival takes place from 29 August to 3 September 2026. This festivity, declared of International Tourist Interest, maintains a direct link with the town's patron saint, the Virgen del Rosario, although its roots respond to a practical necessity of livestock management that has evolved to become the axis of the municipality's social life during the days of celebration. Visiting Cuéllar during these dates allows you to experience a model of celebration where history remains alive through the active participation of the locals and their local associations.

Historical origins and tradition

The singularity of Los Encierros de Cuéllar lies in their antiquity. The first documented record regarding the organization of bull games in the town dates back to the year 1215, during the papacy of Innocent III, making this event one of the oldest in Spain under written record. Historically, the running of the bulls was not tied to a fixed date like today, but was celebrated on prominent moments of the calendar, such as the festivities of San Juan, Corpus Christi or royal events, including the birth of Prince Don Juan, future John II of Castile. The remote origin of this tradition lies in the logistical need to move the fighting cattle from the pastureland to the urban core of Cuéllar for their subsequent bullfight.

The identity of the festival is based on various cultural expressions. Music plays a leading role with the song «A por ellos», a popular anthem traditionally played with a dulzaina (Castilian folk wind instrument), whose score for wind band was adapted by the composer Cecilio de Benito (1869-1940). Alongside this musical accompaniment, the baile de rueda stands out, a traditional dance that accompanies the dianas (morning reveille) and parades. The social fabric of the festivities largely relies on the official peñas (social clubs), among which are Peña La Plaga, Peña El Pañuelo, Panda El Soto and Peña El Embudo, entities that organize various activities. In addition, the parade of Giants and Big-Heads is a constant element in the town's festive programme.

Programme and main events

IThe structure of the festivities is organized around five morning running of the bulls and various protocol events that mark the rhythm of the town. The programme officially begins on 28 August with the descent of the Virgen del Rosario from the parish church of San Miguel to the chapel of Santo Tomé, coinciding with the inauguration of the fairground lighting in the Paseos de San Francisco. The formal start of the celebrations takes place on 29 August at the Town Hall with the appointment of the Corregidora and the reading of the proclamation. The five running of the bulls, which constitute the core of the festivity, take place daily from 30 August to 3 September, starting at 09:30. It is recommended to check the official programme in the details sheet to verify the detailed list of all complementary activities and their schedules.

Traditional festival food

Gastronomy during the fiestas in Cuéllar includes dishes linked to the routine of the peñas and the festive atmosphere of the streets. Lemonades stand out, a typical drink consumed during the «Quedada de limonadas» (lemonade gathering), an event organized by the peñas. On the other hand, garlic soups are the traditional dish served during the «Noche Amarilla» (Yellow Night), held specifically on Calle Las Parras. These dishes are identifying elements of the culinary offer during these days of celebration.

Visitor guide and where to stay

The central venue of the festivities is the Plaza de Toros de Cuéllar. For those travelling to the town, it is recommended to book accommodation in advance for the dates of the festival. On the days of highest turnout, it is preferable to use public transport or look for parking outside the urban centre to facilitate mobility.

It is essential to heed the instructions of the authorities and the organization, showing prudence and respect, especially during the running of the bulls. Visitors looking for cultural activities can attend the theatre shows in the Iglesia de San Francisco, which have free admission until full capacity is reached. Before making any trip, it is advisable to check the official programme, as schedules and events may undergo modifications according to the organization. Staying within the municipality of Cuéllar itself or in nearby towns makes it easier to follow the night events and general logistics.