The Bull Run Festival, modeled after Spain’s famous Running of the Bulls, was set to make its Tucson debut on May 3rd and 4th. Over the past three decades, the event had taken place six times in Arizona and Nevada, drawing thrill-seekers eager to test their luck against charging bulls. This year’s iteration, planned for Old Tucson Studios, would have forced 12 bulls to run 11 times through a quarter-mile, 15-foot-wide course. But before the gates could open, the event was called off.
A Risk to Both People and Animals
Bull runs have long been criticized for their dangers. In Pamplona, footage from past events routinely shows runners stumbling, dodging horns, and barely escaping trampling. Some don’t make it out unscathed—injuries are common, and fatalities have occurred. Yet, while participants choose to put themselves in harm’s way, the bulls have no choice. They are forced into a chaotic environment of loud noises and frantic crowds, enduring extreme stress and fear for the sake of spectacle.
The Official Reason: Insurance Issues
The event’s cancellation was ultimately attributed to a logistical failure. On March 18th, Pima County’s administrator confirmed that the event’s contracted vendor failed to provide proof of the required insurance, a non-negotiable requirement. Without it, Old Tucson Studios had no choice but to withdraw as the venue. While this technicality may have been the official reason for the event’s demise, many believe there was more at play.
Public Outcry and the Future of Bull Runs
Animal rights organizations, including In Defense of Animals, had been actively campaigning against the event. More than 11,500 people signed petitions urging Old Tucson Studios and its parent company, American Heritage Railways, to cut ties with the festival. Protesters made calls, sent messages, and ensured the opposition was heard. While there remains a slim chance the event could be revived if the promoter secures insurance, the overwhelming public backlash suggests that its future—at least in Tucson—remains uncertain.
For now, the bulls will not run. And for many, that’s a victory.
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