MADRID, April 26 (Xinhua) -- The world-famous San Fermin festival, which is known for "running of the bulls" through the streets in the city of Pamplona in northern Spain, has been canceled for a second consecutive year as a result of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the city's mayor Enrique Maya confirmed on Monday.

The festival, held between July 6-14 every year, also contains daily bullfights and numerous musical and cultural events. It attracts around a million visitors every year, giving an important injection of cash to Pamplona's bars and restaurants.

Speaking to the press on Monday morning, Maya said the current health situation in the city meant it's impossible to celebrate San Fermin in 2021.

He explained that the region of Navarre, where Pamplona is situated, currently has one of the highest incidences of COVID-19 in Spain with 432 cases per 100,000 inhabitants.

The mayor added that the pace of the vaccination campaign is another factor.

"The rhythm of vaccination is advancing much more slowly than expected. Only 202 people out of every 1,000 have received a dose and only 83 out of every 1,000 have received the two doses," said the mayor."That means we are still a long way away from achieving herd immunity."

"For that reason, we have had to take this decision, no matter how painful it is," said Maya. Enditem

Related

Go to Forum >>0 Comment(s)