The 15th of August, celebrated as the Day of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, is a significant public holiday in Tenerife. As a ‘non-replaceable’ bank holiday, many services and businesses adjust their usual operating hours, leading to fewer establishments being open to the public. Here’s a detailed look at what will be open in Tenerife on this day.
Why 15 August Is Significant
August 15th is a ‘non-substitutable’ public holiday, meaning it is a fixed date that cannot be altered or replaced by the autonomous communities, which adjust their non-working days according to their own calendars. This day is often used for extended weekends, with many taking the opportunity to travel or relax.
Business Operations on 15 August
According to the Order of 27 June 2011 from the Ministry of Employment, Industry, and Commerce of the Government of the Canary Islands, businesses located in Zones of Great Tourist Affluence have the flexibility to determine their own opening days and hours. This means that some commercial establishments in tourist-heavy areas may choose to remain open despite the holiday.
Extended Hours for Restaurants
Restaurants in these tourist zones are allowed to extend their terrace closing times by one hour compared to the rest of the municipality, both during winter and summer periods.
What Will Be Open in Tenerife on 15 August?
- Healthcare and Emergency Services: Essential services such as healthcare professionals, police, firefighters, and private security personnel will be on duty as usual.
- On-Call Pharmacies: Pharmacies scheduled for duty and those that operate 365 days a year will remain open. You can find a complete list of open pharmacies by municipality.
- Bakeries: Many bakeries, including franchises like El horno de pan and El rincón del pan, will reopen on 15 August. Small, independent bakeries may also open.
- 24-Hour Shops: These small supermarkets will generally maintain their normal hours of operation.
- Bars and Cafés: Many bars and cafés may choose to open, especially given the increased number of diners on this public holiday, though this is at the discretion of the owners.
- Petrol Stations: Similar to pharmacies, not all petrol stations will be open, but many will take advantage of the holiday to provide services.
- Shopping Centres: In tourist areas, shopping centres such as Siam Mall or Rosa Center in the south, or the Martiánez Shopping Centre in Puerto de la Cruz, are expected to be open almost every day of the year, including 15 August.
- Supermarkets: Some supermarkets, particularly those in tourist zones, may open their doors, though many large chains have announced closures for the day. It’s best to check their websites for updated information.
In summary, while many establishments will close for the holiday, several essential services, as well as businesses in tourist areas, will remain open, offering convenience to both locals and visitors.
