Is Mercadona open on May 1? Spain supermarket holiday hours explained

Need groceries this weekend? Many supermarkets across Spain are expected to close or reduce opening hours on Friday 1 May, while Madrid shoppers could also face disruption on Saturday 2 May. Here is what Mercadona, Carrefour, Lidl, Aldi and Dia customers need to know before heading out.

For families planning meals, people returning from trips, or holidaymakers arriving at apartments with an empty fridge, checking ahead could save a wasted journey.

Want to know where 1 May and 2 May are official holidays in Spain? See our full Spain holiday guide.

Why supermarket opening hours change this weekend

Friday 1 May is a national public holiday across Spain. Many businesses close, public offices shut, and supermarket chains often adjust trading hours.

Saturday 2 May is only a public holiday in the Community of Madrid. That means stores in Madrid may operate differently from branches in places like Valencia, Alicante or Málaga.

Then comes Sunday 3 May, when many larger stores already have reduced hours or remain closed depending on local rules.

Is Mercadona open on 1 May?

Mercadona traditionally closes on major national holidays, including Labour Day, so many stores are expected to shut on Friday 1 May.

Most branches outside Madrid are likely to reopen on Saturday, although exact hours can vary by location. Madrid branches may also have reduced hours or closures on 2 May because of the regional holiday.

What about Carrefour, Lidl, Aldi, Dia and Alcampo?

Carrefour often uses a mixed model in Spain. Large hypermarkets may close on holidays, while some smaller convenience stores can remain open.

Lidl and Aldi commonly close many stores on major holidays, then reopen the next day depending on region.

Dia can be more flexible because some neighbourhood branches operate under franchise models and may open mornings only.

Alcampo often follows a similar pattern to Carrefour, with larger sites more likely to close.

The key point is simple: one branch does not always follow the same rules as another.

What happens in Madrid on 2 May?

Because 2 May is a holiday only in the Community of Madrid, shoppers there may find fewer stores open than elsewhere in Spain.

Someone shopping in Elche or Benidorm could see normal Saturday trading, while someone in Madrid may face reduced choice.

Best day to do your shopping

If you want the least stress, Thursday 30 April is likely to be the safest day for a full shop before closures begin.

Early Saturday may also work well outside Madrid, although stores could be busier after Friday shutdowns.

Leaving everything until Sunday is riskier, especially for large supermarkets. Fresh bread, drinks and essentials can sell quickly during holiday weekends.

How to check before leaving home

The safest option is to verify the exact branch you plan to visit using the store website, official app, Google listing or notices outside the shop.

If you need groceries this weekend in Spain, do not assume normal opening hours. Friday 1 May is the biggest disruption nationwide. Saturday 2 May mainly affects Madrid. Sunday 3 May can also be limited depending on area.

A little planning now could save a frustrating trip later.