On August 15, Spain traditionally celebrates the Assumption of the Virgin Mary (Asuncion de la Virgen Maria), one of the most significant Catholic holidays, which is officially recognized as a public holiday in all 17 autonomous communities of the country. In 2025, this day falls on a Friday, giving residents the chance to enjoy a long weekend. During this period, religious ceremonies, popular festivities, and summer festivals take place throughout the country.
The holiday has deep religious roots and was established as a dogma of the Catholic Church in the mid-20th century. In Madrid, the celebrations coincide with the honoring of Virgen de la Paloma, the patron of the La Latina district, while in Seville, they align with the festival of Virgen de los Reyes, the city’s principal saint. In Elche (Elche), these days feature the renowned theatrical performance Misteri d’Elx, which is included in UNESCO’s list of intangible heritage.
As August is the height of the tourist season, especially in coastal and popular holiday regions, many shops and supermarkets adjust their opening hours. Some retail chains open stores only in tourist areas or reduce service hours to meet the needs of visitors and locals alike.
The Mercadona chain usually operates on August 15 only in resort towns such as Canet d’en Berenguer, Cullera, and Gandia. In these locations, stores are open from 9:00 to 15:00, or according to the standard summer schedule if specified by internal regulations.
Consum supermarkets will also be open in Alicante and popular resorts such as Cullera. Exact opening hours can be found on the chain’s official website.
Charter stores, which are part of the same group, will operate with extended hours—from 9:00 to 22:30—though individual locations may have different schedules.
Carrefour will close its hypermarkets nationwide, but smaller Carrefour Express and Kuups stores will remain open, albeit with reduced hours. It is advisable to check information for specific locations in advance.
Lidl and Aldi will only open some of their stores on this day, mostly in tourist areas. Operating hours will be limited, so it is recommended to check the latest information on the companies’ websites.
Alcampo also plans partial store openings, mainly in major cities and along the coast. Opening hours may be reduced.
El Corte Ingles will not open all of its supermarkets and shopping centers. In some cities, shops will be available to customers, but their schedule may differ from the usual one.
DIA supermarkets will operate according to individual schedules, depending on the specific store. It is advisable to confirm the hours on the chain’s official website before visiting.
Partial supermarket openings on August 15 will allow residents and tourists to make necessary purchases during the holiday weekend, especially in popular leisure areas and along the coast. However, to avoid closed doors and unnecessary trips, it is recommended to check the schedule of your nearest store in advance.
