Event Location: Seville Quarter – Pensacola, Florida
Story & Photography by: Leon Martin
Event Date: July 10, 2026
Runners took to the streets of downtown Pensacola on July 25 to “run for their lives,” all in the name of fun, community, and a good cause, during West Florida Roller Derby’s 15th annual Running of the Bulls Pensacola. Seville Quarter hosted the festive fundraiser, serving as the starting and finishing point for the 2K race.
Inspired by the famed Festival of San Fermin in Pamplona, Spain, the local event puts a playful twist on the traditional running of the bulls. More than 100 participants, ranging from children to seniors, took part in this year’s race, with runners encouraged to dress in all white for an authentic “bull chase” experience.
Along the 2K course, West Florida Roller Derby skaters took on the role of the bulls, playfully chasing runners and giving them light taps with plastic bats. For Melissa and Jay Wright, participating was a fun way to support the local roller derby community. “It’s an awesome event to come together in the community with the roller derby girls. They’re fantastic, and I just like to support them in a really fun way,” the couple said.
Following the race, participants and guests were invited to continue the festivities at the after party, which featured food, live entertainment, and opportunities to meet the “bulls” and snap photos with the creatively costumed skaters.
With its combination of playful competition, colorful costumes, and community spirit, Running of the Bulls Pensacola offered participants a memorable way to support West Florida Roller Derby while bringing a little Spanish-inspired fun to downtown Pensacola.
