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At Bous a la Mar festivals, bulls are forced into the sea and dragged out with ropes by frenzied participants. One of the most well-known festivals takes place every July in Dénia on the Costa Blanca.
Bulls are chased through the streets by a violent mob. Once they arrive at an arena, they are baited into the sea. They struggle frantically to escape as men surround them, seizing their horns and fastening ropes around their heads to drag them back to shore.
Most recently, a bull drowned in 2023. The bulls who survive the ordeal are subjected to the same abuse in subsequent events, enduring repeated distress until they are ultimately slaughtered.
Just like humans, bulls are sentient beings who want to live. Bulls are naturally social and friendly animals. They are playful, curious, and even enjoy playing with balls—just like our dog companions. They are terrified of drowning. Bous a la Mar is deeply stressful and traumatic for them.
Bous a la Mar festivals aren’t just harming bulls—they’re dangerous for humans as well. In 2022, a dozen spectators were injured at the Dénia festival. In July, when the festival takes place, temperatures exceed 95 degrees. Combined with the consumption of alcohol and the presence of children, this is a recipe for disaster.
Take Action Now
Despite this horrific cruelty and dangers of the event, and the fact that eight out of 10 Spaniards want a ban on events where bulls are used for disingenuously named entertainment, the Mayor of Dénia is so far refusing to put an end to the Bous a la Mar spectacles. Please urge Dénia to put an end to this cruelty.