Gion Matsuri, a Shinto festival and one of Japan’s largest cultural celebrations, is held in Kyoto, Japan, from July 1 to 31.  Over one million people attend each year, with the largest crowds on July 17 and July 24, when the two Yamaboko Junko float parades occur. From July 14-16 and July 21-23, downtown Kyoto’s streets are closed for Yoiyama, evening street festivals. Heightened security measures and extensive road closures are implemented throughout the festival.

The San Fermín Festival in Pamplona runs from July 6 to July 14, with Running of the Bulls events beginning July 7 at approximately 8:00 AM, drawing over one million visitors. Crowding, high-speed bulls, alcohol use, and restricted movement increase injury risks and limit emergency access. Transportation and emergency services will be strained by festival congestion.

The Mexican Alliance of Transportation Organizations (AMOTAC) has organized a protest in response to workers’ safety concerns. Starting at 7:00 AM on June 24, AMOTAC plans to block highways and major roads throughout Mexico, with the largest blockages occurring in Mexico City. Traffic related to the two World Cup matches Mexico is hosting that day will further strain the country’s transportation infrastructure, likely causing severe congestion and delays in and around Mexico City and Monterrey.