Spain’s early December holidays mark one of the most important long weekends of the year, known as the Puente de Diciembre.
With two national holidays only two days apart, many people enjoy a short break filled with cultural, historical, and religious traditions.
6 December: Constitution Day
On 6 December, Spain celebrates Constitution Day, an important date in the country’s modern history. It marks the approval of the 1978 Constitution, this ended four decades of Franco’s dictatorship and began Spain’s parliamentary democracy.
The Constitution was drafted during the political transition, ratified in a nationwide referendum, and enacted by King Juan Carlos I. Furthermore it established the foundations of democracy, citizens’ rights and freedoms, and the structure of the Spanish state.
Today, Constitution Day is observed with official ceremonies, speeches, and civic activities in schools and public institutions. The celebrations highlight democracy and social participation.
8 December: The Immaculate Conception
Two days later, Spain celebrates the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, a national holiday rooted in Catholic tradition. It honours the belief that the Virgin Mary was conceived without original sin and chosen as the mother of Jesus.
Across the country, the day features special Masses, processions, and floral offerings. Many towns bring statues of the Virgin Mary into the streets. Music, traditional dress, and community celebrations often accompany the processions.
Puente de Diciembre
Because these two holidays fall close together, many people take 7 December off too. This creates a long weekend. The puente is one of the most popular mini-holidays of the year. Families travel, cities host Christmas markets, and towns switch on their festive lights.
