Thousands take part in first bull run of Spain's San Fermin festival

The Spanish city of Pamplona kicked off its world famous San Fermin Bull Run Festival on Saturday with a powerful traditional firecracker, signaling the start of festivities for nine days.

Dressed in white clothes and red scarves as per tradition, thousands of people filled the Pamplona City Hall square at noon to attend the launch of the firecracker.The San Fermin festivities, with medieval origins, also include concerts, religious processions and lots of wine.

The climax, however, comes every day at 8:00 am when hundreds of attendees launch themselves into a dangerous race of 848.6 metres before six heavy fighting bulls through the narrow streets of the city centre.Dozens of people are injured each year, although most are injuries resulting from falls or being stomped by animals. Deaths have also been recorded.