I have some friends who are planning a trip to Spain in mid-May. They are trying to figure out their itinerary, and one of their concerns is about Madrid during San Isidro. I suggested they go to Madrid during the festival as it's something they normally wouldn't get to do. However, I can understand that they might not want to be there during the holiday.

I haven't been in Madrid for San Isidro, so I have a few questions for anyone who has:

Is everything in Madrid closed down on May 15 (the actual day of San Isidro)?

Are there more people than normal in Madrid (ie they come from other cities in Spain or other countries) to celebrate the festivities for San Isidro?

I noticed that May 15 will be on a Friday this year. Does that make it likely that things will be closed over the entire weekend while people take a holiday?

I read MM's blog entry from May 2008, and it seems that many/most of the activities surrounding San Isidro take place at the Pradera de San Isidro. Are there other events in other locations (besides the bullfights)?

Thanks so much for any information you can share.