I’ll never forget my weekend in Pamplona, Spain, for the Festival of San Fermín. When we arrived in Ustes, a nearby town, we decided to explore the surrounding nature on a hike. It was one of the most serene and beautiful hikes I have ever been on. The air was crisp, and it felt good to step away from the buzz for a bit. That quiet morning hike, surrounded by nature, ended up being one of my favorite parts of the trip.  

Taking a hike during a nature break outside the city. 

A quick selfie on our hike before heading back into town. 

In Pamplona, we purchased and changed into the traditional red and white garments and immersed ourselves in the beautiful local culture of the city.  

Pamplona’s streets lit up with thousands celebrating late into the night. 

A group shot in the city center during the festival’s peak. 

When the night ended and morning had risen the streets suddenly filled with a nervous energy, the bulls were about to be released.  

Early morning view of the famous running route before the crowd fills in. 

Seeing charging bulls running down the street that you are barricaded in, was a once-in-a-lifetime feeling to say the least.  

The iconic bull runs in the arena, capturing the rush of the moment. 

Runners helping each other over the barrier near the bullring. 

Eventually I made it into the Plaza de Toros where one of my favorite photos from the weekend came right after a stranger proposed in the middle of the square. The crowd exploded with cheers, and you could see the happiness on everyone’s faces. It didn’t matter where you were from, we were all in it together.  

The excitement after the run as everyone cheers and waves their scarves. 

This trip wasn’t just about the bulls. It was about saying yes to an adventure, going with the flow, and letting unexpected moments turn into lifelong memories. That weekend reminded me that sometimes the best stories come from the plans that never happened. 

Wrapping up the day with friends, still wearing the red scarves of San FermÍn.