Five reasons not to miss the Begoña Bullfighting Fair in Gijón

The 2026 Begoña Bullfighting Fair in Gijón has firmly established itself as the must-attend event of the summer in northern Spain. From 13 to 17 August, the historic El Bibio Bullring (opened in 1888) will once again host a top-class series of spectacles, bringing together the return of legendary matadors, prestigious fighting-bull breeders and the vibrant atmosphere of Gijón’s summer celebrations.

After years of political and social challenges, this year’s season ticket programme represents the most ambitious project yet undertaken by Circuitos Taurinos, led by Carlos Zúñiga.

Here are the five key reasons why this year’s fair should be on every bullfighting enthusiast’s calendar.

1- The long-awaited return of Morante de la Puebla

The biggest attraction of this year’s fair is undoubtedly the return of Morante de la Puebla to the Asturian arena after being unable to appear last season. His appearance on Saturday 15 August, Gijón’s principal feast day, against bulls from Núñez del Cuvillo marks the reunion of the Sevillian maestro with one of his most devoted audiences, promising an afternoon of exceptional artistic expectation.

2- A headline showdown featuring the phenomenon Roca Rey

The high point of the fair arrives on Sunday 16 August with one of the strongest bills of the international season. The Peruvian superstar Andrés Roca Rey will share the arena with the creative brilliance of Alejandro Talavante and the refined elegance of Juan Ortega, facing bulls from Puerto de San Lorenzo and La Ventana del Puerto. It is a combination that is certain to produce a capacity crowd at El Bibio.

3- Outstanding balance in the selection of fighting-bull breeders

Rather than relying on excessively demanding bull runs, the 2026 fair offers a carefully balanced selection combining prestige, variety and proven quality. Proceedings begin on Thursday 13 August with the renowned caste of La Quinta, for Álvaro Lorenzo, Ginés Marín and Clemente, continue with the commercially celebrated bulls of Núñez del Cuvillo, and conclude with the distinguished bloodlines of Puerto de San Lorenzo. It is a line-up designed to satisfy both seasoned aficionados and newcomers alike.

4- A prestigious alternativa in the rejoneo event

Equestrian bullfighting takes centre stage on Friday 14 August, featuring bulls from Los Espartales. The sport’s leading figure, Diego Ventura, will act as sponsor at a gala event during which the promising Javier Funtanet will take his alternativa, alongside Portuguese horseman Duarte Fernandes.

5- The perfect combination: bullfighting, gastronomy and Semana Grande

Visiting Gijón in August offers far more than outstanding bullfighting. A trip to El Bibio naturally complements the city’s lively Semana Grande festivities, allowing visitors to enjoy Asturias’ celebrated cuisine, its traditional cider houses and the beautiful beaches located just a short walk from the historic bullring.

The 2026 Begoña Fair is more than a collection of outstanding bullfighting line-ups; it represents the true heart of Asturian bullfighting’s resilience. At a time when preserving cultural traditions requires commitment and conviction, attending El Bibio is both a celebration of heritage and a demonstration of support for one of Spain’s most enduring cultural expressions.

Every ticket is a vote in favour of cultural freedom, and every olé echoing around the historic stone terraces of El Bibio stands as a declaration of identity across northern Spain.

This August, the future of the Fiesta will once again be written in Gijón. Be part of the story—secure your seat, fill the stands, and let the fanfares ring out across Spain’s Cantabrian coast.