Bull running in Javea
The bull running event in Jávea, a picturesque town on Spain’s Costa Blanca, is a highlight of its vibrant local festivities. Known as “Bous a la Mar” (Bulls to the Sea), this event is unique for its setting by the waterfront. Unlike traditional bull runs that typically occur in confined streets, Jávea’s bull running takes place in a temporary arena built near the port, where the bulls often end up plunging into the Mediterranean Sea.
Participants, known as “recortadores,” display their agility and bravery by taunting the bulls, attempting to dodge and maneuver around them without the use of weapons. The ultimate goal for these daredevils is to coax the bulls into the water. Once a bull falls or jumps into the sea, it is gently guided back to shore by boats and returned safely to the arena.
“Bous a la Mar” is part of the larger annual “Fiestas de la Mare de Déu de Loreto,” celebrated in early September. The event combines thrilling spectacle with local tradition, attracting both locals and tourists. While the activity raises animal welfare concerns among critics, it remains a deeply rooted cultural event cherished by many in the community, reflecting the town’s historical and social fabric.
Rather than set up a temporary bullring and have bullfights as is the case in the majority of national village fiestas, Javea provides quite a divergence from the theme called Bous a la Mar (Bulls to the Sea).
A temporary stand is constructed in the port area with seats looking down on a small man-made “beach” which is no more than 70m long by 20m wide. Along one side of this sandy area is the stand for spectators and at the other side is the sea.
Spain Information
Autonomous Communities and Provinces of Spain
Bull fighting in Spain
Bull running in Spain
Bull running in Denia
Bull running in Javea
Bull running in Pamplona
Facts about Spain
Fiestas in Spain
Fallas Fiesta
Fallas Fiesta Image Gallery
La Tomatina, Bunol
Flamenco in Spain
Paella
Spanish History
Spanish Language
Spanish Celebrities & Sports Personalities
Tourist Information Offices in Spain