As Christmas and New Year approach, shoppers in Czechia should prepare for shortened hours, early closures, and mandatory shutdowns. National retail laws and supermarket schedules mean planning ahead is essential during the holiday period.

Mandatory Closures: December 24–26
Under the Act on Retail and Wholesale Sales Hours (2016), all stores larger than 200 square meters must close at noon on December 24. These stores remain fully closed on December 25 and December 26. This rule applies to department stores, supermarkets, and shopping malls, including mall food courts.

Stores That Can Stay Open
Some services are exempt from the law and may operate during holidays. These include pharmacies, petrol stations, airport and train-station shops, and stores inside medical facilities. Small shops under 200 square meters, such as local convenience stores and potraviny, may open at the owner’s discretion.

New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day Closures
December 31 is not a public holiday, but most major supermarkets will close earlier than usual. January 1 is a public holiday, and most large stores will remain closed, reopening on January 2.

Supermarket Holiday Hours
Billa
December 24: open until 11:45 a.m.
December 31: open until 5:00 p.m.

Albert
December 24: open until 11:45 a.m.
December 31: open until 6:00 p.m. (mall locations may close earlier)

Globus
December 24: open until 11:30–11:45 a.m.
December 31: open until 6:00 p.m.
Online delivery and pickup: available until 5:30 p.m.

Kaufland
December 24: open until 11:45 a.m.
December 31: open until 6:00 p.m.

Lidl
December 24: open until 11:30 a.m.
December 31: open until 5:00 p.m.
Closed on January 1, reopens January 2

Penny Market
December 24: closed
December 31: open until 5:00 p.m.

Tesco
December 24: open until 11:45 a.m.
December 31: open until 6:00 p.m.
Closed on January 1, reopens January 2

Food Delivery Services
Food delivery platforms will operate during the holidays, but delays are expected due to high demand and limited couriers.
Rohlík will accept orders until 6:00 p.m.
Wolt and Foodora will continue operating on December 31 and January 1, though longer wait times are likely.

Plan Ahead
With multiple closure days and reduced hours, residents and expats are advised to complete essential shopping early to avoid inconvenience during the holiday period.