As Semana Santa approaches in 2025, anticipation builds across Spain for one of the most cherished holidays of the year. This year, the festivities will unfold later than usual, commencing on Sunday, April 13, and concluding on Sunday, April 20, just before May Day, celebrated on May 1. With significant dates and local traditions in play, here's what you need to know about the upcoming Semana Santa.
The Semana Santa of 2025 kicks off on Palm Sunday, known as Domingo de Ramos, on April 13, and culminates with Easter Sunday, or Domingo de Resurrección, on April 20. The holiday is traditionally marked by a series of religious observances, including processions that draw crowds nationwide. These dates are determined by the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox, which typically falls between March and April.
Among the key dates to keep in mind are Jueves Santo (Holy Thursday) on April 17 and Viernes Santo (Good Friday) on April 18. While Jueves Santo is a public holiday in most of Spain, it is not recognized as such in Cataluña and the Comunidad Valenciana, where local authorities have opted for different holidays. In contrast, Viernes Santo is a nationwide holiday, allowing all Spaniards to participate in various religious observances.
On Jueves Santo, regions such as Andalucía, Aragón, Asturias, Madrid, and others will enjoy a day off work, enabling many to partake in the traditional processions that are central to Semana Santa celebrations. However, in Cataluña and the Comunidad Valenciana, workers will have to clock in on this day, as these areas have replaced Jueves Santo with Lunes de Pascua (Easter Monday) on April 21, 2025, which is a holiday celebrated with the traditional 'Mona de Pascua' cake.
In the Comunidad Valenciana, the decision to shift the holiday from Jueves Santo to Lunes de Pascua was made when the regional government designated the latter as a more relevant celebration. Consequently, while many residents will miss out on the festivities of Jueves Santo, they will be able to enjoy the long weekend that Lunes de Pascua offers.
Despite Jueves Santo not being a holiday in Cataluña and the Comunidad Valenciana, certain areas within these regions will still observe it as a local holiday. For instance, places like Riba-roja del Turis and Crevillent have designated Jueves Santo as a local holiday, allowing residents to participate in the celebrations.
As the holiday nears, many Spaniards are looking forward to a much-needed break, especially after a long stretch without public holidays since the Christmas season. This anticipation has led to a surge in travel plans, as families and individuals plan short getaways to enjoy the extended weekend.
However, with the influx of holidaymakers, it's essential to keep in mind the adjusted operating hours of supermarkets and stores during this festive period. For instance, Mercadona, one of Spain's largest supermarket chains, will only open its doors in Cataluña and the Comunidad Valenciana on Jueves Santo, as these are the only regions where the day is not a public holiday.
In contrast, other supermarkets like Lidl and ALDI will have varying hours based on location, with many stores remaining open on Jueves Santo but closing on Viernes Santo. For example, ALDI typically operates from 9:00 AM to 9:30 PM, while Lidl's opening hours can differ, especially outside major cities.
Carrefour stores will also be open on Jueves Santo, although some may reduce their hours. Generally, many Carrefour locations that are permitted to operate on holidays will maintain their usual schedules, but it's advisable for shoppers to check online for specific store hours. In Málaga, for instance, major retail chains like El Corte Inglés will operate during both Jueves Santo and Viernes Santo, catering to the needs of those who may wish to stock up on essentials.
As families prepare for the holiday, the excitement is palpable. In cities like Málaga, the Semana Santa celebrations are particularly vibrant, with numerous processions taking place. These events attract both locals and tourists, eager to witness the elaborate floats and participate in the rich cultural traditions that define this period.
Despite the festive spirit, some regions are bracing for the possibility of rain, which could impact outdoor celebrations. The unpredictability of the weather has become a recurring theme during Semana Santa, and this year appears no different. Nevertheless, many Spaniards remain optimistic and are determined to enjoy the holiday, rain or shine.
In conclusion, Semana Santa 2025 promises to be a memorable occasion for many, with a mix of cherished traditions and modern adaptations. As the dates approach, communities will come alive with preparations, processions, and celebrations, drawing everyone into the spirit of this significant cultural and religious event.
