Bullfighting Rejones Shows Madrid: Horseback Season Schedule
The Rejones (horseback bullfighting) season at the Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas in Madrid for 2026 runs on specific weekends from late spring through early autumn, featuring Spain’s elite rejoneadores on agile, trained mounts. These events differ from traditional foot corrida dates and attract riders like João Moura Jr, Diego Ventura, and Andy Cartagena.
This schedule matters because Rejones shows offer a distinct spectacle that combines horsemanship, precision, and tradition. If you plan your Madrid trip around these dates, you benefit from ticket availability, better seating options, and the chance to experience a unique form of bullfighting that is less crowded than the San Isidro Fair.
In this guide, you will find the confirmed 2026 Rejones dates, practical times, sectional pricing in euros, booking advice, and recommended seats for first-time visitors. You’ll also see tips on how to arrive, what to expect in these horseback events, and how to book securely with instant confirmation.
When are the Rejones shows scheduled in Madrid for 2026?
The Rejones shows in Madrid take place mainly on weekends when the season focuses on mounted bullfighters rather than matadors on foot. The exact dates for 2026 are typically announced by the official organisers in early spring, and they fall between May and October, interspersed with regular corrida programming.
Tentative 2026 Rejones schedule
| Date | Day | Start Time |
|---|---|---|
| May 2, 2026 | Saturday | 6:00 PM |
| May 3, 2026 | Sunday | 6:00 PM |
| June 27, 2026 | Saturday | 7:00 PM |
| June 28, 2026 | Sunday | 7:00 PM |
| July 18, 2026 | Saturday | 7:00 PM |
| July 19, 2026 | Sunday | 7:00 PM |
| September 12, 2026 | Saturday | 6:00 PM |
| September 13, 2026 | Sunday | 6:00 PM |
These dates reflect typical patterns observed in past seasons, and you should verify exact times when booking.
The Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas gates generally open 90 minutes before showtime, and entry scanning is strict. Plan to arrive at least 45 minutes early, especially for popular Rejones weekends.
Rejones events differ from regular corridas because horsemen execute banderillas and rejón placements from horseback, offering exceptional horsemanship and agility that appeals to visitors who want a variation on traditional bullfighting.
→ Book your tickets here: Reserve Tickets (Instant Confirmation)
Which rejoneadores are likely to appear in 2026?
While the final lineup varies by show, top international rejoneadores frequently featured in Madrid include:
- João Moura Jr – Known for elegance and precision
- Diego Ventura – One of the most famous rejoneadores in Spain
- Andy Cartagena – Stylish and charismatic performance
- Oscar Borja – Rising star combining speed and artistry
- Leonardo Hernández – Technical mastery in horseback work
These riders often perform with prestigious breeding stock and top-tier horses, which adds to the spectacle and demand for tickets.
We recommend booking early for weekends showcasing these names, as shaded sections, particularly Tendido 8–10, sell out fastest.
How much do Rejones tickets cost in euros?
Rejones pricing at Las Ventas follows the same structure as traditional bullfighting but can skew slightly higher due to specialised mounting and show appeal.
Rejones ticket price ranges (EUR)
| Section | Sun/Shade | 2026 Price |
|---|---|---|
| Andanada (upper) | Sun | €30–€45 |
| Tendido 1–7 | Sun | €45–€80 |
| Tendido 8–10 | Shade | €85–€130 |
| Barrera (front rows) | Shade | €140–€180 |
Prices increase modestly for evening shows and premium rejoneador lineups. According to venue trends, shaded seating commands a €15–€20 premium over sun sections.
If you want the best viewing experience for Rejones (especially to watch horsework closely), we recommend Tendido 8 or 9, which combine shade with excellent sightlines.
For a detailed explanation of the seating areas and what they offer, see our complete seating breakdown in the Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas seating guide.
How do Rejones shows differ from traditional corridas?
Rejones shows centre on mounted performance. Instead of matadors on foot engaging solely with cape and sword after picadors and banderillas, equestrian bullfighters direct the flow from horseback. This emphasises bravery, timing, and synergy with the horse.
Key differences include:
- Horsework focus – high-speed passes and rejón placement
- Visual spectacle – elegant horses trained for close interaction
- Audience appeal – often more accessible for first-timers
These elements make Rejones popular with international visitors who value the theatricality of equestrian skills.
What times should you plan for on event days?
Rejones shows in Madrid typically begin in the late afternoon or early evening. During summer months (June–August), start times are usually 7:00 PM to escape midday sun. Earlier shows at 6:00 PM are common in May and September.
Ticket scanning begins at gate opening, roughly 90 minutes before kick-off. Plan to arrive early to settle into shaded seating if available and enjoy pre-show atmosphere.
What sections give the best view for horseback action?
When watching horses at high speed and riders placing rejóns, clear sightlines and proximity to the arena floor matter.
Recommended sections for rejones
- Tendido 8–10 (Shade): Best overall viewing and comfort
- Tendido 6–7: Strong angles for horsework
- Lower Andanada: Budget-friendly, good overview
We recommend prioritising shade for comfort, especially for evening shows that still retain heat after daylight.
Why you should book early for Rejones dates
Rejones weekends attract both local aficionados and international visitors seeking a different bullfighting experience. This dual demand means shaded seats and contiguous blocks for groups sell out quickly.
For peak dates, especially in June and July, booking a minimum of 4–6 weeks ahead secures better pricing and seating together.
If you haven’t planned yet, don’t wait. Trends show that demand spikes as soon as dates are publicly confirmed.
→ Book your tickets here: View Seating & Prices
How to combine Rejones shows with other Madrid attractions
Rejones weekends are ideal for layering your Madrid itinerary. Afternoon visits to the Retiro Park or Prado Museum can be followed by a Rejones show at Las Ventas.
After the event, local taverns near Calle de Alcalá 237 offer classic Spanish tapas and wines—perfect for debriefing with your group.
What to expect on the day of the show
Show days have a rhythm:
- 90 min before: Gates open
- 45 min before: Best seat settling time
- 15 min before: Final ring preparation
- Showtime: Mounted bullfighters enter, and the performance begins
Expect a focused crowd, attentive atmosphere, and a structured programme that concludes with a formal salute and exit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bullfighting Rejones Shows
What is a Rejones show?
A Rejones show is a form of bullfighting where the primary bullfighter engages the bull from horseback, using rejóns and performing dynamic passes at speed.
When do Rejones shows take place in Madrid?
Rejones shows at the Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas are typically on selected weekends from May to September/October 2026. Exact dates are confirmed on official schedules.
How much do tickets cost for Rejones?
Ticket prices range from €30 in upper Andanada to €180 in premium shaded Barrera rows. Booking early ensures best value.
Are Rejones shows family-friendly?
Yes. Rejones are suitable for first-time visitors and families, offering a less intense entry point to bullfighting than full corridas.
What time do Rejones shows start?
Most shows begin at 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM, depending on season. Gates open about 90 minutes beforehand.
Should I pick sun or shade seating?
Shade seating (Tendido 8–10) is recommended for comfort and visibility, especially in late afternoon and summer.
Ready to Experience Rejones at Las Ventas?
Here are the key takeaways: Rejones shows in 2026 span weekends between May and October; prices range from €30–€180; shaded sections offer best views and comfort; and early booking secures the best seats.
You can select your exact seats using the interactive seat map below and receive instant confirmation with full support in English, French, German, and Italian.
Madrid Bullfighting was created 25 years ago out of the need to bring Spain’s bullfighting tradition closer to international visitors coming to Madrid, making ticket purchasing easier and providing clear, reliable information in their own language. This program was originally launched by the Community of Madrid.
For more than 25 years, we have helped promote Madrid to thousands of travelers, as the initiative includes both the promotion of bullfighting and the cultural appeal of the city to visitors.
The program offers recommendations and guides to cultural activities considered of interest by the Community of Madrid, including visits, shows, and traditional experiences. Depending on the season, discounts may be available for additional cultural activities recognized by the Community of Madrid.