May Holidays in Czechia: What You Need to Know About Store Hours
As May draws near, Czech shoppers are advised to check store opening hours for the upcoming public holidays on May 1 and May 8. In 2025, these holidays fall on consecutive Thursdays, each offering a distinct shopping experience due to the 2016 legislation. May 1, Labor Day, remains unaffected by the Act on Retail and Wholesale Sales Hours. As a result, stores nationwide, regardless of their size, are free to open, although individual retailers may choose to adjust their hours. Consumers are encouraged to confirm local store hours in advance, as schedules may vary. On the other hand, May 8, Victory Day, marking the end of World War II, is subject to the law. On this day, stores larger than 200 square meters must remain closed. This rule affects many supermarkets and large retail chains. Stores exceeding the 200-square-meter threshold are also required to close on other holidays, including New Year’s Day, Easter Monday, Christmas, Czech Statehood Day, and the Day of the Establishment of an Independent Czechoslovak State. However, the law does not apply to smaller shops (those under 200 square meters), gas stations, pharmacies, and outlets located in airports, hospitals, and transportation hubs like train and bus stations,...
