The Community of Madrid celebrates a holiday on May 2, 2025, a day that follows the national Labor Day holiday on May 1. This particular day is significant as it commemorates the uprising of the people of Madrid against Napoleon's troops in 1808, an event that sparked the Spanish War of Independence. The celebrations typically include parades, institutional acts, and the awarding of medals by the Community, blending historical solemnity with a festive atmosphere as many citizens enjoy their day off.
This year, the coincidence of these two holidays creates a four-day weekend for many madrileños, leading to various plans for family gatherings or short trips. However, this extended break also raises questions about which supermarkets will be open on May 2, as many people will need to stock up on essentials to accommodate their holiday plans.
With the Labor Day holiday resulting in widespread closures across supermarket chains, consumers are left wondering, "Will the supermarkets be open today, or will they have to wait until the weekend?" The answer varies by store and location, making it essential for shoppers to know which supermarkets will be operating.
Mercadona, one of Spain's most popular supermarket chains, will not open its doors on May 2, 2025. Adhering to its strict policy, Mercadona remains closed on Sundays and holidays, meaning customers will have to wait until Saturday, May 3, to resume their shopping there.
Carrefour, on the other hand, offers a mixed bag. The chain operates various formats, which means some locations may be open while others might not. Generally, Carrefour hypermarkets may have reduced hours or remain closed, especially in shopping centers where operations depend on the overall schedule of the complex. However, many Carrefour Market and Carrefour Express stores, particularly those situated in busy urban areas, will be open, often with extended hours, making them a viable option for last-minute purchases.
Lidl is another supermarket chain that plans to open many of its stores in Madrid on May 2, albeit with reduced hours. Most Lidl locations will be operational from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, allowing shoppers to make quick trips for essentials. However, since not all stores follow the same schedule, consumers are encouraged to check Lidl's website for specific store hours to avoid any surprises.
DIA supermarkets will also have many of their locations open on May 2, operating on a schedule similar to Sundays, from 10:00 AM to 2:30 PM. This limited opening allows customers to make small purchases without waiting for the weekend. Given DIA's extensive network of proximity stores, shoppers might find some locations open even in more remote neighborhoods. However, hours can vary based on whether the store is a franchise or a company-owned outlet, so checking online is advisable.
Alcampo supermarkets will largely maintain their regular hours on May 2, opening from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM. This is particularly beneficial for those looking to do a more comprehensive shopping trip or for anyone needing to shop later in the day. Alcampo's numerous locations across Madrid, especially in shopping centers that remain active during regional holidays, make it a reliable choice for consumers.
Aldi, the German supermarket chain, will also keep many of its stores open on May 2, typically from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. While this schedule allows customers to meet their basic needs, as with other chains, there may be variations in opening hours, so verifying store hours on Aldi's website before heading out is recommended.
Supermarkets linked to El Corte Inglés, including Hipercor and Supercor, will be open on May 2, generally from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. These stores are known for their extensive hours and variety of products, making them a popular choice for shoppers seeking flexibility during the holiday.
Ahorramás, a chain well-represented in Madrid's neighborhoods, will also open on May 2, with most locations available from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. This is particularly useful for those needing fresh products or daily essentials, as Ahorramás focuses on proximity and daily goods.
As many chains have opted to open at least part of the day, it is crucial for consumers to remember that not all stores will operate, and hours may differ based on specific locations. To avoid unnecessary trips and ensure a smooth shopping experience, checking each supermarket's website or mobile app for the nearest open location is highly recommended. This way, shoppers can make the most of their holiday while ensuring they have everything they need.