Las Ventas Sets the Stage for a New Season: Closing the San Isidro 2026 Fair
Las Ventas, Spain’s premier bullfighting arena, has officially announced its calendar for the next season, bringing excitement to fans and participants alike. With the endorsement of the Community of Madrid, the venue is set to host an impressive total of 41 bullfights in 2026.
A Look at the 2026 Calendar
The season will kick off on March 22 with a Cuadri bullfight featuring renowned toreros such as Gómez del Pilar, Damián Castaño, and Juan de Castilla. This year’s schedule includes 16 bullfights, including one without picadors, which is a unique aspect of the Camino towards Las Ventas, showcasing events held in various municipalities throughout the region.
Subscriber Renewals and Discounts
The renewal period for full season subscribers is set to begin on January 12, 2026. This year, fans can look forward to discounts of up to 20% on fair tickets. Additionally, the renewal of free subscriptions will commence the same day, offering 2,800 spots intended for retirees and those under the age of 25. It’s important to note that renewed eligibility for younger attendees requires a minimum attendance of 50% throughout the 2025 season.
Challenges Ahead
One of the main challenges for the organizers will be to maintain the remarkable attendance from the 2025 Autumn Fair, which recorded an impressive 19,428 attendees. As the San Isidro fair draws to a close, it will take place from May 8 to June 7, featuring traditional bullfights, including In Memoriam and Charity events on Sundays, June 8 and June 14.
Special Events Planned
The schedule continues after the San Isidro fair, with an exciting bullfight on June 21 that will serve as a lead-up to the Cénate Las Ventas night contest. This contest runs from June 25 to July 23, featuring five unique bullfights, all held on Thursdays. A notable new addition for 2026 will be four additional bullfights: July 30 (potentially concluding the Chenel Cup), August 6, August 15 for the traditional La Paloma, and August 20.
Autumn Festivities and Tradition
As September arrives, the festivities will return to Sundays, hosting one bullfight along with three hard bullfights on September 13, 20, and 27. The grand Autumn Fair is scheduled in two segments: from October 1 to 4 and October 9 to 11, culminating in the Bullfight of Hispanidad on October 12, which marks the closing of the season.
Grand Presentation of the San Isidro Fair
The San Isidro 2026 fair will be celebrated at a grand gala in Las Ventas on February 5, 2026. This event is highly anticipated and exemplifies the rich cultural heritage of bullfighting in Spain.
Las Ventas continues to honor its legacy while strategizing for the upcoming season, aiming to capture the attention and passion of bullfighting aficionados both national and international. With varied offerings and exciting new elements, predictions are high for an unforgettable year ahead.