As Spain gears up for the International Workers' Day on May 1, 2025, a significant holiday for many, the Community of Madrid will also commemorate the Dos de Mayo uprising on May 2, extending the celebration into a long weekend. This dual holiday creates an opportunity for families to relax, travel, or shop, making it essential to know which supermarkets will be open during this time.
Mercadona, one of Spain's largest supermarket chains, will adhere to its strict policy of closing on national holidays. Consequently, all Mercadona stores in the Community of Madrid will be closed on both May 1 and May 2. Throughout the rest of Spain, Mercadona will also remain shut on May 1, but will operate normally on May 2 in regions where that day is not a local holiday.
In contrast, Carrefour offers a more flexible approach. Many Carrefour Express and Carrefour Market locations in Madrid will remain open during both holidays, particularly those situated in central or tourist-heavy areas. Notably, some stores, such as those on Calle Montera and Calle Tudescos, will operate 24 hours, while the Carrefour on Calle Mayor will serve customers from morning until midnight.
Lidl has decided to keep most of its stores open during the holiday weekend, albeit with adjusted hours. In Madrid, Lidl supermarkets will open on May 1, but many will close early, around 3 PM. On May 2, they will return to their regular hours, typically from 9 AM to 10 PM. Similar patterns will be observed across the rest of Spain, where most Lidl stores will open with reduced hours on May 1 and revert to normal schedules the following day.
The situation at Dia supermarkets is less uniform, as the opening hours depend on individual stores. Many Dia locations in Madrid will be open on both May 1 and May 2, but with reduced hours, generally from 10 AM to 2:30 PM. The same variability will be seen in other regions, where some stores may open on May 1, especially in urban areas, but with limited hours.
Aldi has announced that most of its stores in Madrid will remain open on both holidays, with the exception of the location on Calle del Ferrocarril, which will close on May 1. On that day, all Aldi stores will open one hour later than usual, starting at 10 AM, while they will resume normal hours on May 2.
Alcampo presents a mixed situation as well. Many of its supermarkets, particularly the 'City' formats, will be open during the holiday in Madrid, including on May 1 and May 2. However, larger hypermarkets may close on May 1 or reduce their operational hours. Outside of Madrid, the opening hours will vary based on location, with many centers closing entirely on May 1, except in tourist areas or larger cities.
With all these differences in store hours across various chains and regions, the best advice for those planning to shop during the bridge holiday is to check the specific hours of each store on their official websites or mobile apps. This way, shoppers can avoid unnecessary trips and better organize their time during the festive days.
As the first long weekend of May approaches, it’s not just about shopping; it’s also about celebrating the cultural significance of these holidays. May 2 marks the Day of the Community of Madrid, a date deeply rooted in history, commemorating the uprising of 1808 when Madrid residents revolted against the French occupation. This day has been an official holiday since 1983 and is celebrated with various cultural events, including concerts, dance performances, and exhibitions.
The historical significance of May 2 is not lost on the residents of Madrid, who take pride in their identity and the rich cultural tapestry of the community. The uprising against Napoleon's forces is a reminder of the resilience and courage of the Madrileños, and it is celebrated with a sense of unity and pride.
In addition to Madrid, other regions in Spain will also celebrate local holidays on May 2. For instance, in Ávila, the day honors San Segundo, while in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the Festivity of the Cross will be celebrated, which has been moved to this date due to its original timing on a Saturday.
The first long weekend of May is a welcome break for many, providing a chance to recharge before the summer months. Madrid's celebration of the Day of the Community, coupled with the festivities in other regions, highlights the diversity and cultural richness of Spain. As families prepare for the long weekend, the importance of planning ahead for shopping and activities cannot be overstated.
As the festivities unfold, the streets of Madrid will be alive with celebrations, reflecting the vibrancy of the community and the historical significance of the events being commemorated. This long weekend not only serves as a break from work but also as an opportunity for people to connect with their roots and celebrate what it means to be part of the Community of Madrid.
In summary, as the holiday approaches, it’s crucial for residents and visitors alike to stay informed about store hours and events to make the most of this festive time. Whether it’s shopping for essentials or participating in local celebrations, the first weekend of May promises to be a memorable one for all.
