Running with bulls, and other nonsense

They're at it again -- the bulls, that is, as well as those who run with them.

Today marked the first of eight runs of the San Fermin Festival in tiny Pamplona, Spain, commonly known as the "Running of the Bulls" to the rest of the world. The Associated Press reported one man gored and four slightly injured. Check out some highlights from today's run.

I try to accept and appreciate the beauty and variety of all cultures, but I always felt Spain had the most nonsensical traditions out of any country. Let's see: You've got a suicidal sprint alongside fuming, two-ton, horned animals. Then in August you have "La Tomatina," when approximately 30,000 people descend on tiny Bunol, Valencia, to pummel one another with tomatoes.

Some other traditional Spanish celebrations include Fiestas de Haro (a giant wine fight), and Danzandores de Anguiano (some type of ceremony that involves people running down hills on stilts). That's before you even consider the country's commitment to bullfights as a form of entertainment.

I appreciate tradition, but I also respect progress, and part of me thinks that at some point in history someone in Pamplona should've said "Hey, I have an idea -- let's NOT risk getting our guts torn apart by the angry bulls this year!"

But then again, Spain isn't all tomato throwing and bull dodging. The country takes its festivals seriously, and many of them are very beautiful and respectful. Spaniards honor their saints and heritage, and treasure food and drink with family and friends above all else. I can respect that, and there's something pure about a country that has so stoically maintained its traditions throughout the centuries -- even the wacky ones.

So, if you're looking for a nonsensical yet traditional coda to your summer, you might consider heading to Bunol for "La Tomatina" on the last Wednesday in August. Flights from Boston to Madrid or Valencia run a steep $1,000 -- but the trip comes with free tomatoes.