Not long to go ...
1. The Language. Should you come from abroad, some knowledge of the Spanish language would be advantageous. Most of the people who have something to say about the fiestas will be using this language. Not everyone will be able to converse in English in our city.
2. Partying. Be careful that you don't get too carried away by the festive spirit. Sanfermin could get you hooked in such a way that before you know it the fiestas will have come to an end. You will have had a good time but you will have nothing to publish. Work and partying can be combined with a bit of moderation in all things. 3. Be careful about what you hear. There are opinions on almost everything to do with the fiestas and often the opinions are wide and varied. Be care with what you hear. Check out different opinions before satisfying yourself about the validity of anything. In Pamplona the people have a habit of not agreeing about almost anything.
4. Jokes. During Sanfermin almost everyone is enjoying the fiestas, and at times the people take pleasure in telling tall tales or pulling the legs of some innocent visitors. If in doubt, double check with someone you can trust before accepting the truth. 5. Myths. Forget all your pre-conceived ideas or particular prejudices. If this is your first visit it would be best to see it as it happens. The myths going round about the fiestas are not usually the truth. Two examples: the bulls shouldn't be touched during the running of the bulls and during the fiestas not just anything goes - order and authorities are still in force.
6. Plans. Sanfermin is not the best place for a journalist who is punctual and ordered. It is not easy to keep an appointment or reach a place on time. It is difficult to make plans in advance as these could easy go awry. There are a lot of people about, a lot of congestion and things don't always work out as planned. Don't let it get to you.
7. Risk. Be careful where you go. Going to the txupinazo opening rocket with a video camera or to Jarauta Street at three in the morning could be risky for the aforesaid video. Lots of stuff could befall both you and your camera although it is all done in good fun.
8. Before and After. If you have time and can afford it, the ideal thing would be to come a few days before the fiestas take off. That way you can see how the city transforms itself in a very short space of time. Don't panic if you arrive on the 5th and everything is still in its normal routine. It all starts on the morning of the 6th.
9. Attire. The gear you wear is important. Unless you want to look like a lost soul in the middle of the multitude, you should at least put on the Sanfermin necktie.
10. Information. You don't have to worry about having everything under control, especially with regard to the running of the bulls. The Regional Government of Navarra through its medical staff, issues a daily report on all the injured runners. It also provides other information on how the fiestas are going and gives a summary of how the whole thing went immediately the fiestas finish. Besides. Sanfermin.com will also be a good source of information on the fiestas.
