With the arrival of December we enter the month of Christmas, lights, gifts, but also holidays. In Spain, the so-called “December bridge” commonly refers to the period that includes the day of the Spanish Constitution (December 6) and the Immaculate Conception. (December 8). Given the proximity between these holidays, they are often combined with weekends or December 7th and a "bridge" is created that can extend over several days.
During this time, it is common for many people to take the opportunity to make plans, getaways or short trips. It can be a good opportunity to visit the most touristy towns with cultural attractions. However, how do I know if I have a December long weekend or not?
December 7, 2023
Following the national work calendar, Thursday December 7 2023 is not a holiday . Likewise, it has not been included in the list of autonomous festivals of any community.
No However, and as we have already described on other occasions, municipalities have the possibility of decreeing up to two days of local holidays in their own municipalities. On this occasion, multiple towns in Catalonia have opted to choose December 7, 2023 as a local holiday. These will be:
- Fontanals de Cerdanya
- Sant Martí de Llémena
- Porqueres
- Llosses, les
- Garriguella
- el Cogul
- Llorenç de Rocafort
- Rocallaura
- Vilagrassa
- l'Ametlla de Montsec
- Montgai
- Butsènit
- Peralada
- Estais
- Espot < li>Escart
- La Guingueta d'Àneu
- Talarn
- Creixell
- Roda de Berà
- Querol
- Vallmoll
- Forès
- Solivella
- La Morera de Montsant
- Escaladei
- Alfara de Carles
- Camarles
- Viladamat
- Amposta
- Masdenverge
- Pinell de Brai, the
- Castelldefels
- Sant Boi de Llobregat
- Aiguafreda
- Tagamanent
- Malgrat de Mar < li>Lluçà
- Montesquiu
- Santa Maria de Besora
- Mont-ras
- Rajadell
- La Nou de Berguedà
- Sant Julià de Cerdanyola
- Olivella
On the other hand, and taking as a reference the autonomous school calendar, there will be a greater number of Autonomous Communities that have decided to give a short break to the youngest ones so that they can enjoy the December bridge. Thus, both in La Rioja and in Andalusia, Madrid and Canary Islands, December 7, 2023 is declared as non-teaching.
Why is December 6 a holiday in Spain?
Every December 6 is a holiday in Spain. Furthermore, it is one of the so-called non-changeable holidays, not being taught in schools and institutes either. This is because Spanish Constitution Day is celebrated. This day commemorates the approval of the 1978 Constitution, which marked the transition to democracy in Spain after the death of the dictator Francisco Franco.
The Spanish Constitution was ratified in a referendum held on December 6, 1978. This text established the fundamental principles and basic norms for the political and social system of Spain, including the guarantee of the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens.
As we know, the approval of the Constitution marked an important milestone in the history of Spain, since it put an end to a period of almost four decades of Franco's dictatorship and established a legal framework for a parliamentary democracy. Constitution Day is celebrated throughout the country as a symbol of the consolidation of democratic values and civil rights in Spain.
Why is December 8 a holiday in Spain?
December 8 It is another of the non-changeable holidays in the Spanish work and school calendar. It commemorates the holiday of the Immaculate Conception. This event has deep roots in Catholic tradition and is celebrated in many Catholic-majority countries around the world. The holiday centers on the belief that the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus, was conceived without original sin.
The Immaculate Conception is a Catholic dogma that upholds that Mary was preserved from original sin from the moment of her conception in the womb of her mother, Saint Anne. This dogma, although part of Catholic tradition for centuries, was officially proclaimed by Pope Pius IX , on December 8, 1854. The declaration of dogma affirmed that Mary's conception was free from the stain of original sin, a belief that had been held by generations of Catholic believers and theologians. p>
The choice of December 8 for the proclamation of this dogma was not accidental. The date coincides with the feast of the Immaculate Conception and, therefore, becomes a special day for the Catholic Church. Since then, December 8 has been a day of liturgical celebration and religious festival, now adding secular celebrations.
The holiday of the Immaculate Conception is an important occasion in the religious life of many countries that have a strong Catholic tradition. Celebrations on this day usually include special masses, processions and other religious activities that honor the Virgin Mary. In many cities and towns, local events are held to mark the occasion, often attracting worshipers and visitors alike.
How to take advantage of the December long weekend?
If you are one of those lucky ones who can enjoy a few days of well-deserved rest at the beginning For the month of December, we propose a series of ideas to make the most of these days:
- Getaways to Tourist Destinations: visit full cities of history and culture, explore monuments, museums and enjoy the unique architecture of each place. It can also be a good occasion for rural destinations. Escape to picturesque towns or rural areas to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of your surroundings. Although, if you prefer warm weather, consider visiting the Mediterranean or Atlantic coasts.
- Cultural Activities: Research cultural events that may be taking place during the year. December long weekend, such as music festivals, craft fairs or theatrical performances. Spend time visiting museums and exhibitions. Nature and Outdoors: If you like nature, take the opportunity to go hiking. > in natural parks or reserves. The time can be perfect to enjoy autumn landscapes.
- Christmas Plans: Christmas is just around the corner, so take the opportunity to do some Christmas shopping and prepare the decorations for the holidays. Also, if you are in a city that holds Christmas markets, you can spend time exploring the shops and enjoying the festive atmosphere.
