Spain, which has been hit particularly hard by economic crisis, has cut back on bullfighting

Pain in Spain « Liveshots: "Spain, which has been hit particularly hard by economic crisis, has cut back on bullfighting festivities around the country. 'Tis the season of the “Corrida” or bullfight, in Spain, which is always preceded by the running of the bulls through the center of town. A run that is not without hazards.
Pamplona is in the midst of the San Fermin festival, but due to the crunch, it’s not drawing its usual numbers. Hotels have rooms left. The streets are not packed.
But Pamplona is the jewel in the crown of that controversial sport. The number of bullfights in Spain is down by 20%. Festive season fiestas have been scaled down in many locations because municipalities simply can’t afford to put them on.
But these parties bring cash to the economy. Some estimates are that the bullfighting industry brings in $1.5 billion annually, employs hundreds of thousands of people, and that 1000 farms are dedicated to raising bulls.
Some in Spain would like to see the violent sport banned. But it is a tradition that goes back centuries, lasts a week, and has become the centerpiece of summer celebrations.
Ernest Hemingway piqued the curiosity of people around the world with vivid scenes in “The Sun Also Rises”."