With the arrival of the Reyes Magos, shopping enthusiasts are preparing for one last dash to the stores. January 5, 2025, will see many supermarkets and shopping centers across Spain welcoming customers eager for last-minute purchases before the festivities. Major retail chains and local malls will alter their hours to accommodate those rushing to secure gifts and traditional food items for the holiday.
According to reports, Mercadona, one of the country's largest supermarket chains, will stick to its regular schedule on Sunday, January 5, closing its doors for the day due to the Sunday closure policy. This is particularly important to note as many will need essentials for the following day, as January 6 is El Día de Reyes, or Kings' Day, which is marked by family gatherings and feasting.
On the other hand, Día supermarkets will open on January 5 with reduced hours, typically from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, though specifics can vary by location. Shoppers are encouraged to check the hours of their nearest store through the company’s website.
Carrefour will maintain its usual hours on January 5, operating from 8:30 AM to around 9:00 PM. Many Carrefour stores will close on January 6 for the holiday, though some smaller Carrefour Express locations might offer limited service. Aldi plans to keep most of its outlets open on January 5, again following reduced hours based on store-specific factors. All Aldi locations will remain closed for El Día de Reyes on January 6.
Lidl stores will also operate on January 5 with shortened Sunday hours, typically from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Just like its competitors, Lidl will not welcome customers on January 6, so planning is key for those hoping to snag their favorite roscón de Reyes.
Supercor is expected to follow its normal Sunday hours of operation on January 5, opening typically from 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM. Most Supercor locations will not open on Kings' Day, with some exceptions possibly applying. Alcampo will open its stores on January 5, remaining accessible until 10:00 PM, yet it will also observe national holidays, closing on January 6.
The excitement of last-minute shopping isn't limited to just supermarket chains. Several shopping centers across Spain will throw open their doors on January 5, creating opportunities for both shopping and dining out. For example, the L'Illa Diagonal will operate from 9:30 AM to 9:00 PM, and various other locations like Arenas de Barcelona and Diagonal Mar will follow similar hours.
Valencia's retail scene will not be left behind either. Notable centers such as El Saler and Aqua Multiespacio will welcome visitors on January 5, offering them the chance to finalize their gift purchases before Kings' Day celebrations. Most retail locations here will close on January 6, with the Maremàgnum mall being one of the few exceptions, remaining open on Kings' Day for those who want to enjoy cinemas and restaurants.
City-wide, there are still entertaining options available through local businesses, too. Public markets and holiday fairs are expected to remain filled with activity on January 5, allowing residents to indulge in festive treats.
It is also important to note the broader retail framework for the year. According to the official announcements, January 5 marks the start of authorized trading days where many businesses are permitted to operate on Sundays and holidays throughout the year. The local government has set out guidelines allowing up to ten Sundays and holidays for shopping throughout 2025, with January 5 being the first such opportunity.
Consumers are reminded to check their preferred supermarkets and shopping centers' exact opening hours via their respective websites to avoid any holiday mishaps. With such preparations and planning, the hustle and bustle of Kings' Day will be worry-free, allowing families to enjoy their time together and relish the delicious sweets and gifts exchanged during this cherished tradition.
The anticipation for Kings' Day celebrations brings not only joy but also anxiety for many who leave their shopping until the last minute. With the availability of stores on January 5, 2025, shoppers can rest easy knowing they have another chance to finalize their holiday preparations.