December in Spain brings two important bank holidays: Constitution Day on December 6 and the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8. These holidays aren’t just days off; they’re a chance to reflect, celebrate, and dive into the festive spirit as Christmas approaches.

Constitution Day: December 6

Constitution Day, or Día de la Constitución, celebrates the approval of Spain’s 1978 Constitution. This was a turning point for the country as it transitioned to democracy after decades under Franco’s rule. On December 6, 1978, the Spanish people voted overwhelmingly in favor of the new constitution in a national referendum. It wasn’t until 1983, though, that the date was officially made a public holiday.

While it’s not typically celebrated with family traditions, it’s marked by ceremonies organized by schools, government offices, and the armed forces. These events focus on educating people about their rights and the importance of democracy.

Feast of the Immaculate Conception: December 8

December 8 is a religious holiday celebrating the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, which honors the Virgin Mary’s freedom from original sin. It’s been a public holiday in Spain since 1760 when Mary was named patroness of the country. For Catholics, it’s a deeply meaningful day, and many attend church services.

This year, December 8 falls on a Sunday, so in many regions, the holiday is carried over to Monday, December 9. Not all areas of Spain will have this extra day off, though—check your local region’s calendar to see if Monday is a holiday for you.

The Long Weekend: Puente de Diciembre

The long weekend, or puente, is a highlight of the year for Spanish people and residents. It’s the perfect time to relax, take a short trip, or start prepping for Christmas. Towns and cities across Spain use this time to switch on their Christmas lights or unveil their elaborate nativity scenes, or belenes, which are often incredibly detailed and draw big crowds.

Local councils also organize free events like concerts, workshops, and parades, and Christmas markets pop up everywhere, selling handcrafted gifts and seasonal snacks. Be sure to check your local town hall’s social media pages to see what’s happening near you.

What About Shop Opening Hours?

If you’re planning to do some holiday shopping, be aware that store hours might vary during the holidays. Many supermarkets, like Mercadona, close on December 6 but reopen on December 7 with normal hours. Others, such as Carrefour and Lidl, may open on holidays but with reduced hours, so it’s best to check their websites for specifics. Large department stores like El Corte Inglés may also have special holiday schedules, often opening later or closing earlier than usual.

How Do People Celebrate?

For some, the ‘puente’ or long weekend is about travel—either exploring other parts of Spain or heading to European cities for their famous Christmas markets. For others, it’s a chance to stay local, enjoy community events, and spend time with friends and family.

Cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Sevilla go all out with Christmas markets, ice rinks, and festive performances. Smaller towns often host charming local events that bring communities together, from parades to choir performances.

Why These Holidays Are Special

December’s bank holidays are a mix of history, faith, and festive fun. Whether you’re learning about Spain’s democratic journey, admiring Christmas lights, or browsing a local market, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, with Christmas just around the corner make the most of this special time of year.

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Main image: Shutterstock/Alvaro German Vilela