Eibar experienced a notable start to its San Juan festivities this Sunday with the return of bull events, an activity that had not taken place in the town since 2018. The event commenced at 8:00 AM, drawing a significant number of young participants, with the Unzaga square fully cordoned off for controlled release.
Although 'sokamuturra' (bull-tethering) had been discussed, the event ultimately did not involve bulls restrained by ropes. Instead, it featured a release of young bulls within the enclosed perimeter of Unzaga, without ropes attached to the animals, thus not strictly adhering to the sokamuturra designation.
The return of the bull event followed weeks of political and social controversy. Its inclusion in the San Juan program even led to an extraordinary session at the Eibar City Council, where a motion to suspend it was debated. Ultimately, the proposal did not pass, and the activity remained part of the festive schedule.
In the minutes before and during the event, approximately 15 to 20 individuals protested with signs against its celebration. The animal rights mobilization proceeded without incident, under the watchful eye of a small Ertzaintza (Basque Police) contingent.
The societal division regarding the revival of such activities has been evident on social media and in public spaces. While a segment of the citizenry supports its continuation as a festive expression, other groups advocate for its discontinuation due to animal welfare concerns.
In the square, participants enjoyed the release of several young bulls, featuring races, maneuvers, and moments of tension typical of these morning events. There were a few scares, but no significant personal or material damage was reported.
The organizers had established a fenced area in Unzaga to demarcate the activity zone and separate the public from the participation area. Police presence and safety measures ensured the event proceeded without major incidents.
The return of the bull events has been one of the most discussed aspects of the San Juan festivities' commencement. The revival of this activity, after several years of absence, reignites the debate surrounding the presence of animals in local festival programming. Subsequent events are scheduled for June 24th and 25th.
Separately, amidst intense heat, Eibar hosted the V Txistu Eguna, bringing together six musical groups from Elgoibar, Ermua, Zornotza, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Soraluze, and the local Usartza ensemble, who paraded through the streets performing a diverse repertoire.
