Immaculate Conception Day, celebrated on the 8th of December, is a significant holiday in Tenerife. What that usually entails is that many people take the opportunity to enjoy a long weekend, combined with another holiday held on the 6th of December. However, only a few establishments remain open to the public on this day. So, what can you expect to find open in Tenerife on the 8th of December?
The 8th of December is a “non-substitutable” public holiday, meaning it cannot be altered or modified by the autonomous communities, which adjust their non-teaching days according to their own working calendars.
According to the Order of 27 June 2011 of the Ministry of Employment, Industry, and Trade of the Canary Islands Government, in the areas considered Zones of Great Tourist Influence, commercial establishments are free to determine their opening days and hours to the public.
In the restaurant sector, the closing time of terraces may be extended by one hour compared to the rest of the municipal territory, both in winter and during the summer period.
So, what will be open on the 8th of December in Tenerife?
1. On-Call Pharmacies: Pharmacies that are on duty, as well as those advertised as open 365 days a year, will remain open. You can find a complete list of open pharmacies by municipality.
2. Bakeries: Some franchises like El Horno de Pan or El Rincón del Pan, along with small bread and pastry shops, will reopen their doors on the 8th of December.
3. 24-Hour Shops: Small supermarkets, known for their extended hours, will generally be open during normal operating hours.
4. Bars and Cafés: Bars and cafés dedicated to catering may choose to open or remain closed on this holiday, depending on the owners’ discretion.
5. Petrol Stations: While not all petrol stations will be open, many will provide services on a day when few other businesses operate. Check which ones are open on the 8th of December.
6. Shopping Centres: In areas considered Zonas de Gran Afluencia Turística (ZGAT), shopping centres such as Siam Mall, Rosa Center, or Martiánez Shopping Centre in Puerto de la Cruz may open their doors.
7. Supermarkets: Some supermarkets, especially those in tourist areas, may choose to open. However, some chains like Mercadona have announced they will remain closed. Alcampo, Aldu, Carrefour, and Lidl will open during their regular hours. For HiperDino, SuperDino, and Hiperdino Express shops, visit their websites for specific opening hours.
8. Santa Cruz Flea Market: The Santa Cruz Flea Market will be open from 8.30 am to 4 pm on the 8th of December to make up for the activity canceled during the IX Santa Cruz International Marathon.
Remember to check the specific opening hours and details of these establishments, as not all locations within shopping centres may be open.
