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Bloodless Bullfights in Gustine, California
By Jan Austin | Published Friday, Nov. 20, 2009
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The 403-mile drive from San Diego to Gustine in California’s San Joaquin Valley can transport you to Old World Portugal. Matadors, cavaleiros and forcados donned in colorful old-fashioned garb along with the fiesta atmosphere preserve the culture of this distant land.
Keeping alive the Portuguese and Azorean tradition of bullfighting, bloodless bullfights provide all the artistry and pageantry of the real thing, without death or injury to the animals. A swatch of Velcro on the bull’s back and Velcro-tipped “swords” make this possible.
When bullfights were outlawed in California, the Portuguese community received an exemption for their bloodless variation as long as they’re linked to a religious festival.
On most weekends, you’ll find one in a dusty little town in the Central Valley. Lively music, dancing and lots of linguica and other great food are in abundance.
Events in Gustine start about 7:30 p.m. at Bella Vista Plaza Arena, Preston Road at Santa Fe Road. Tickets are $20, free for those under twelve. If you go, be sure to bring lots of mosquito repellant.
More info: 209-678-2478, californiabullfights.info.
Interesting. I just wrote a story on Madrid, Spain where bullfighting is a traditional part of the culture. I declined to attend any bullfights when I was there. The one bullfight I attended years ago in Rosarito, Mexico made such an indelibly bad impression on me that I decided it would be my last one. I didn't realize at the time that the bull would be killed. It's good to know that they're able to preserve their culture without sacrificing the bull. Thanks for sharing.
By sanso66 9:13 a.m., Nov 21, 2009 > Report it