Else Beekman
PACMA has called on the town of Dénia to stop holding its traditional “Bous a la Mar” bull events, which take place each July during the Festa Major. According to the animalist party, these spectacles cause unnecessary suffering for the animals involved and pose serious safety risks for people too.
In a letter to the council, PACMA president Javier Luna described the events as distressing and dangerous. “The bulls are forced into a chaotic environment—loud, crowded, with people chasing them, and then pushed into the sea. It causes them extreme stress, and sadly, some don’t survive,” he said.
Bulls have drowned in the past
The party’s campaign, Throw a Lifeline to the Bous a la Mar, aims to end the event once and for all. They point to several bulls that have drowned in recent years—the latest in July 2023, and others in 2012 and 2014—as proof that the tradition is outdated and dangerous.
Bull drowned during Bous a la Mar in Spanish resort of Dénia
Steps already taken by the council
In recent years, Dénia’s local government has shown signs of rethinking the future of ‘Bous a la Mar’. The council, currently led by a coalition between the Socialist Party of the Valencian Country (PSPV-PSOE) and Compromís, has taken modest steps towards change. In 2024, they reduced the number of sessions and cancelled afternoon events to protect animals and the public from extreme heat.
Mayor Vicent Grimalt (PSPV-PSOE) has publicly stated that tradition alone is not reason enough to preserve the event, noting that “life evolves” and festivities must adapt. Discussions within the council reflect an openness to reevaluating long-held customs, with a growing awareness of both ethical concerns and public safety.
A rejected motion by the opposition to further promote the event suggests shifting priorities, with the governing parties favouring a more reflective and progressive approach.
PACMA welcomed the move but believes the town should go further.
A new kind of celebration
While criticism of the festival grows, there are also many people defending ‘Bous a la Mar’. Local supporters value the tradition because it brings the community together. According to them, it’s part of Dénia’s identity and plays a key role in the town’s summer festivities.
Politically, the local branch of the People’s Party (PP) has pushed for the event’s revitalisation as an important part of cultural heritage. However, the council voted down their proposal recently.
PACMA wants Dénia to start a conversation with residents and animal rights groups to explore kinder, more modern ways to celebrate the town’s culture. They suggest replacing the bull events with concerts, art shows, or sports activities that still honour local traditions but don’t involve harm to animals.
Safety concerns for people too
It’s not just the bulls at risk. PACMA also points out the dangers to participants and spectators. In 2022, health services treated around a dozen young people for injuries sustained during the festivities. “You’ve got scared animals, often drunk crowds, and a tight urban space. It’s a recipe for accidents,” the party warns.
Their message is clear: tradition shouldn’t come at the cost of suffering or safety. PACMA believes Dénia has a real opportunity to lead the way in showing that celebrations can be fun, meaningful, and cruelty-free. “Let’s show that progress and compassion can go hand in hand,” said Luna.
Sources: Las Provincias, La Vanguardia
Controversy surrounds ‘Bous a la Mar’ festival in Dénia