As the Easter holiday approaches, shoppers from North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), Germany, are faced with a dilemma: while local stores will be closed, their neighbors across the border in the Netherlands will be open for business. This situation presents a unique opportunity for those looking to indulge in some retail therapy during the holiday.
In NRW, Easter Sunday, which falls on April 20, 2025, is a legal holiday, meaning that all shops must remain closed. However, in the Netherlands, the rules are quite different. Although Good Friday (Karfreitag) on April 18, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday (Ostermontag) on April 21 are also public holidays, many shops are allowed to open, albeit with certain restrictions.
On Good Friday, shops in the Netherlands can operate from 6 AM to 7 PM, while on Holy Saturday (Karsamstag), they can remain open until 10 PM. The same hours apply for both Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, allowing stores to cater to customers from 6 AM to 10 PM, provided they have the necessary permissions from local authorities. Interestingly, on Good Friday, many shops in Venlo, a popular shopping destination for NRW residents, typically close by 6 PM, making it essential for visitors to plan their shopping trips accordingly.
For those considering a day trip, Venlo offers a vibrant shopping scene. On Easter Sunday, larger chain stores located on Lomstraat, Vleesstraat, and Maasboulevard will be open from 12 PM to 5 PM. However, smaller, independent shops may choose to remain closed, so shoppers should be aware of this limitation. On Easter Monday, the larger stores will also open their doors from 12 PM to 5 PM, providing ample opportunity for last-minute shopping.
Another key shopping spot is the Designer Outlet Roermond, which is known for its extensive range of brands and attractive discounts. This outlet will be open throughout the Easter weekend, from April 18 to April 21, 2025, with extended hours from 9 AM to 10 PM. This makes it an ideal destination for those looking to score some deals on their holiday shopping.
While some NRW residents might opt for a shopping excursion in the Netherlands, others may find alternatives within their own region. Winterberg, located in the Hochsauerlandkreis, offers a special exception to the typical holiday shopping restrictions. As a recognized tourist destination, shops in Winterberg will be open on Easter Sunday from 11 AM to 5 PM, allowing locals and visitors to enjoy a blend of nature and retail therapy.
However, it’s essential to note that not all shops in the Netherlands will be open during the Easter holidays. In smaller towns and cities, many shops, including those in popular border towns like Enschede and Maastricht, may remain closed. Therefore, anyone planning to shop in the Netherlands should check the opening hours of specific stores online before heading out.
As the holiday draws near, it’s clear that the differences in shopping regulations between NRW and the Netherlands create exciting opportunities for those willing to cross the border. Whether it’s a day filled with shopping in Venlo or a visit to the Designer Outlet Roermond, Easter 2025 promises to be a unique experience for shoppers.
