On May 8, 2025, Berlin will observe a public holiday commemorating the end of World War II, a day that comes as a surprise to many residents. While most shops in the city will remain closed, those in neighboring Brandenburg will operate as usual, providing a stark contrast to the capital's holiday atmosphere. This day brings both freedom and restrictions, prompting many to wonder which businesses will be open in Berlin.
For essential needs, gas stations, pharmacies, and shops located in train stations, airports, and travel bus terminals will be open, offering their full range of services. Additionally, flower shops, newspaper stands, and bakeries can operate from 7 AM to 4 PM on public holidays, ensuring that Berliners can still get their last-minute essentials.
Several supermarkets will be open on this holiday, catering to those who need to stock up. Notably, Edeka and Rossmann at Bahnhof Lichtenberg will welcome customers from 8 AM to 10 PM. Other locations include Denn’s Biomarkt at Bahnhof Ostkreuz, which will be open from 7 AM to 10 PM, and Denn’s at Gesundbrunnen, also from 8 AM to 10 PM. Penny at Ostbahnhof will be available from 7 AM to 11 PM, while Rewe at Hauptbahnhof will open its doors from 8 AM to 10 PM. Edeka at Friedrichstraße will follow the same schedule, and Rewe at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) will be open around the clock.
However, not all stores will be operational. In Berlin, Spätis, or late-night convenience stores, must close on May 8, except for those that also provide food and have seating areas. Restaurants and bakeries are permitted to remain open, with chains like Zeit für Brot and Bäckerei Junge confirming that their Berlin branches will serve customers on this holiday.
As for cultural activities, many museums will also welcome visitors. The Jüdisches Museum Berlin will open from 10 AM to 6 PM, while the Gedenkstätte Deutscher Widerstand will have the same hours. The Neue Nationalgalerie will also be open from 10 AM to 6 PM. The Humboldt Forum will operate slightly longer, from 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM. Another highlight will be the Hamburger Bahnhof, which will be open from 11 AM to 6 PM.
Significantly, the Museum Berlin Karlshorst, the site of Germany's surrender 80 years ago, will host a special program from 10 AM to 9 PM. Visitors can also enjoy an open-air exhibition titled "Endlich Frieden" (Finally Peace) at Pariser Platz. The Mitte Museum will showcase the exhibition "Der Krieg und Ich – Kriegskinder 1939-1945" from 10 AM to 6 PM.
For those looking to stay active, most swimming pools in Berlin will be open on this public holiday. The Schwimmhalle SSE at Landsberger Allee will be available from 10 AM to 6 PM, while Schwimmhalle am Thälmannpark will operate from 10 AM to 5 PM. Schwimmhalle Buch will be open from 6:30 AM to 3:30 PM, and Schwimmhalle Allendeviertel will welcome swimmers from 10 AM to 5 PM. The Schwimmhalle Helene-Weigel-Platz will be open from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM, and Stadtbad Neukölln will operate from 8 AM to 8:30 PM. However, some smaller swimming facilities will remain closed, and the Berliner Bäderbetriebe (BBB) website offers information and ticket purchasing options for those interested.
The unique holiday is a time for reflection, as it marks a significant historical event for Berliners and Germans alike. Despite the closures and restrictions, the day provides an opportunity for residents to remember the past while enjoying the limited services available. As the holiday approaches, many Berliners are preparing to navigate the day with an eye toward both remembrance and practicality.
In conclusion, May 8, 2025, is set to be an intriguing day in Berlin, blending the solemnity of remembrance with the everyday needs of its residents. While many shops will be closed, essential services will remain open, allowing Berliners to honor the day while taking care of their daily routines.
