As Holy Thursday approaches on April 17, 2025, many Spaniards are gearing up for a festive long weekend, a time when families often travel to second homes, explore charming villages, or indulge in beach getaways. Yet, a common question arises: which supermarkets will be open during this holiday?
Mercadona, one of Spain's leading supermarket chains, will operate on its regular schedule of 9:00 AM to 9:30 PM in regions such as Catalonia and the Valencian Community, where Holy Thursday is not a recognized holiday. However, in most autonomous communities where this day is celebrated as a public holiday, including Madrid, Mercadona will remain closed.
On Good Friday, April 18, 2025, Mercadona will also close its doors across Spain, except in the Valencian Community and Catalonia, where it will instead shut down on Saturday, April 19. This decision aligns with the company's longstanding policy of not opening on Sundays and public holidays, a practice that has been in place since its inception in 1977.
The supermarket chain has established itself as a staple in the Spanish grocery market, known for its quality products and competitive prices. With over 1,600 locations nationwide, many consumers rely on Mercadona for their everyday shopping needs. However, the holiday schedule requires careful planning from shoppers.
For those wondering about other supermarket options this Holy Thursday, Carrefour's hours vary by community. In Madrid, for instance, many stores remain open throughout the week, while in regions observing the holiday, some locations may close or adjust their hours. Customers are encouraged to check the store locator on Carrefour's website to confirm specific opening times.
Lidl typically operates from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM on weekdays and is known to open on Sundays and holidays, so customers can expect to shop as usual on Holy Thursday. However, it’s wise to verify individual store hours on Lidl's official site.
Dia supermarkets generally remain open every day, including holidays, from 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM, Monday through Saturday. However, some stores might have reduced hours on Holy Thursday, so checking local listings is recommended.
Alcampo, part of the French Auchan group, will likely keep its centers open from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM on Holy Thursday, but again, customers should consult the supermarket's website for confirmation.
Aldi has a history of opening on one of the two Holy Week holidays, and it is expected to follow suit this year by allowing customers to shop on Holy Thursday while closing on Good Friday.
Meanwhile, Consum applies special hours during Holy Week, particularly in tourist areas where stores may remain open with limited hours to accommodate visitors.
As Easter festivities unfold across Spain, the varying schedules of supermarkets highlight the importance of local regulations and customs. While some regions embrace the holiday spirit with closures, others maintain regular business hours, reflecting the diverse cultural landscape of the country.
For those in areas where Holy Thursday is not a holiday, Mercadona will be open as usual, providing a convenient option for last-minute shopping. However, in regions observing the holiday, shoppers will need to plan accordingly, as many stores, including Mercadona, will not be available.
In conclusion, as the holiday draws near, Spaniards are reminded to check their local supermarket hours and plan their shopping trips in advance to avoid any last-minute surprises. Whether celebrating with family or enjoying a quiet day at home, ensuring access to groceries remains a priority during this festive time.
