Key Services and Shopping Options During the Candelaria Holiday in Tenerife

The Feast of the Virgin of Candelaria, celebrated annually on February 2, is a significant bank holiday in Tenerife, drawing both locals and tourists to partake in the festivities. This day is not only a time for celebration but also a moment when the island’s businesses adjust their operations to accommodate the holiday spirit.

Understanding Holiday Business Hours

As an official non-working day, the majority of businesses across Tenerife will close their doors in observance of the holiday. However, a regulation established by the Canary Islands Government in 2011 provides flexibility for commercial establishments located in high tourist areas, such as Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje. These businesses are permitted to set their own operating hours, allowing them to cater to the influx of visitors during this festive time.

In the hospitality sector, bars and restaurants have the option to extend their terrace closing times by one hour compared to the standard regulations that apply throughout the municipality. This adjustment is particularly beneficial during the holiday, as it allows establishments to serve more customers who are eager to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Essential Services Available on the Holiday

Despite the holiday closures, essential services will continue to operate as usual, ensuring that residents and visitors alike have access to necessary support. This includes healthcare professionals, police officers, firefighters, and private security personnel, all of whom play a vital role in maintaining public safety and health during the celebrations.

Pharmacies designated as on-call will be available to serve the community, alongside those that remain open year-round. Residents can easily find information on local pharmacies by municipality through official listings, ensuring they can access medications and health supplies when needed.

Many bakeries, including popular chains like El Horno de Pan and El Rincón del Pan, will remain open, offering fresh baked goods to the community. These establishments are a staple during the holiday, providing treats that enhance the festive spirit.

For those in need of late-night shopping options, 24-hour convenience stores will maintain their regular schedules, providing a reliable source for snacks, beverages, and other essentials. This is particularly advantageous for late-night revelers and those who may have forgotten to stock up before the holiday.

The opening hours of bars and cafés will vary depending on individual owners. Given the anticipated increase in foot traffic during public holidays, many establishments in this sector will choose to open their doors to customers, eager to enjoy the lively atmosphere.

While not all petrol stations will be operational, several service stations will be available throughout the holiday. It is advisable for drivers to check in advance which stations will be open in their vicinity to avoid any inconvenience while traveling around the island.

Shopping Options in Tourist Areas

For those looking to indulge in some retail therapy, shopping centres located in tourist zones may open on this holiday, providing visitors with a chance to explore various shops. However, major supermarket chains such as Mercadona, Alcampo, Aldi, Carrefour, and Lidl will remain closed for the day, limiting options for grocery shopping.

Local supermarket chains, particularly Hiperdino, will keep most of their branches open, although there may be exceptions in more residential neighborhoods. Visitors are encouraged to verify the opening hours of individual retailers online to avoid any inconvenience and ensure they can access the products they need.

Key points

• The Feast of the Virgin of Candelaria is a significant bank holiday in Tenerife.
• Most businesses will close, but tourist areas may have flexible operating hours.
• Essential services, including healthcare and emergency services, will remain operational.
• Pharmacies and many bakeries will be open, providing necessary goods.
• 24-hour convenience stores will operate as usual.
• Major supermarket chains will be closed, while local stores like Hiperdino will be open.
• Visitors should check the opening hours of specific retailers and services in advance.