Bloodless Bullfighting Tradition Continues in Artesia, California
A bloodless bullfight, a Portuguese tradition known as the Festa do Espírito Santo, is being held in Artesia, Los Angeles. This event features matadors and horsemen using Velcro-tipped darts to attach to a bull wearing a Velcro pad, ensuring no…
Los Angeles, CA, July 25, 2026 —
A unique Portuguese tradition, the Festa do Espírito Santo, which includes a bloodless form of bullfighting, is currently being observed in Artesia, Los Angeles. This event showcases matadors and horsemen engaging with bulls in a manner that ensures the animals’ safety.
In this version of the bullfight, participants utilize Velcro-tipped darts which are attached to bulls wearing corresponding Velcro pads. This method guarantees that the animal sustains no injuries during the event. The practice serves to keep a cultural tradition alive within the community.
The location for these festivities is the Artesia D.E.S. community hall. This venue is notable for possessing its own dedicated bullfighting arena. The arena was constructed in 1976 by Portuguese immigrants who sought to preserve their heritage in the United States. The Festa do Espírito Santo continues to be a significant cultural event, drawing attention to this distinctive approach to bullfighting.
Story summarized from the original created by Fiona Ng on laist.com, see more information here.
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