What to expect during the May 'puente' holidays in Spain

As the May 1st bank holiday approaches, many in Spain are eager to know what shops and services will remain open during this festive period. Labour Day, or Día Internacional de los Trabajadores, falls on May 1st, a Thursday this year. It is a public holiday observed nationwide, meaning that most workers and students can anticipate a day off. However, the specifics of what remains operational can vary.

Supermarkets and grocery stores

On May 1st, many supermarkets across Spain will be closed, prompting residents to stock up in advance. Notable exceptions exist:

Mercadona: Spain’s largest supermarket chain will close all its locations.

El Corte Inglés: This well-known department store and its supermarkets will also be closed across the country.

Carrefour: The French supermarket's opening hours differ by location, so some may remain open while others do not.

Día: This chain will operate select stores in larger cities, typically from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Lidl: Most Lidl stores will close, although some in popular beach areas may open for limited hours, generally from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Alcampo: This supermarket is open year-round, including holidays, but may close earlier than usual.

Pharmacies

Pharmacy availability on May 1st will depend on local practices. Many pharmacies may open during special holiday hours, typically from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. However, individual branches may vary, with some remaining closed except for one main location in the neighborhood.

Bars and restaurants

The decision to remain open rests with individual bars and restaurants. While local establishments may choose to close, larger chains and many restaurants are likely to operate as usual. In regions celebrating the 'puente,' such as Madrid, some local venues may shut down for a few days.

Schools

Across Spain, schools will be closed on Labour Day. Students in Madrid will enjoy an additional day off on Friday, May 2nd, as local authorities have designated it a holiday in recognition of the uprising against Napoleon's troops in 1808. In other regions, students will return to classes after the one-day break unless otherwise noted.

Gyms

For fitness enthusiasts, gym operations will vary. Most private gyms will set their own hours, while municipal gyms may follow standard holiday schedules.

Extended holiday considerations

The May 2nd holiday extends to cities like Tenerife, celebrating the Festival of the Cross, and Ávila, honoring Saint Segundo. This allows residents in these areas, along with those in Madrid, to enjoy a four-day weekend. On this day, supermarkets such as Mercadona and Día will close, but some locations like Supercor/Hipercor and Carrefour Express may offer reduced hours.

Additionally, Saturday, May 3rd, marks El Día de la Cruz in Granada, Córdoba, and Almería, suggesting minimal store operations in these locations.

As the holiday draws near, planning ahead will ensure a smooth experience during this festive time in Spain.