Bullfighting Returns to San Sebastián: Three Golden Afternoons at Illumbe

That historic wound finally healed on 11 August 1998.

The opening of Illumbe, with its impressive and revolutionary retractable roof, was much more than the inauguration of a new arena. It represented the reunion of a city with its own heritage and proved that the passion for bullfighting in northern Spain had survived intact despite decades of enforced absence.

Today, Illumbe has evolved to meet modern expectations through a bold but highly effective formula: just three performances, each of exceptional quality. There is no longer room for filler events or routine fixtures. The 2026 San Sebastián season ticket has been condensed into one unforgettable weekend of top-class bullfighting, transforming the limited number of dates into its greatest strength.

Each line-up is a headline event in its own right—a high-stakes encounter that has generated enormous excitement among local supporters while prompting a surge in hotel bookings as thousands of enthusiasts from southern France prepare to descend on the city.

For anyone wondering whether to buy an individual ticket or secure a seat for the entire series, this year’s programme leaves little room for debate.

Thursday 13 August – A clash of pure styles

A powerful team of Zalduendo bulls will test the experience and artistry of Diego Urdiales, the unquestionable mastery of Daniel Luque, and the ambition of Borja Jiménez, one of the season’s outstanding revelations.

Friday 14 August – A celebration of artistry and variety

The festival’s mixed event begins with the brilliance of champion rejoneador Guillermo Hermoso de Mendoza, who will face bulls from Carmen Lorenzo, before the afternoon continues with a prestigious mano a mano featuring four Garcigrande bulls for the unpredictable genius of Morante de la Puebla and the timeless elegance of José María Manzanares.

Saturday 15 August – A spectacular finale on the Feast of the Assumption

Magnificent Alcurrucén bulls will provide the ultimate challenge for a trio guaranteed to fill every seat: French star Sebastián Castella, the inspired Alejandro Talavante, and the world’s leading matador, Peru’s Andrés Roca Rey.

With such an extraordinary concentration of talent, the smartest choice is to purchase the full season ticket.

Because this is about far more than simply attending bullfights—it’s about enjoying the perfect summer escape.

San Sebastián offers a complete experience: the morning bull draw, lunch featuring the city’s famous pintxos in the Old Town, a stroll along the iconic La Concha Bay with its refreshing sea breeze, before ending the afternoon immersed in the unique atmosphere of Illumbe.

It is a journey where culture, breathtaking scenery and the emotion of the bullring come together to create three truly unforgettable days.