As the Easter holiday approaches, many people in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) and across Germany are preparing for a long weekend filled with festive activities. However, for those considering a shopping spree, the holiday closures may come as a disappointment. With many stores shuttered on key days, shoppers will need to plan accordingly to avoid missing out on their Easter purchases.
In NRW, shopping is not possible on Good Friday, April 18, 2025, and Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, as these are public holidays when shops are closed. This restriction is particularly relevant for those who might have planned to stock up on supplies or indulge in some retail therapy during the holiday weekend.
However, there is a silver lining for avid shoppers willing to travel a bit further. Just across the border in the Netherlands lies the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet in Roermond, a shopping paradise that remains open throughout the Easter weekend. This outlet is conveniently located about an hour’s drive from several NRW cities, including Duisburg and Essen, making it an attractive option for those looking to shop during the holiday.
During the week leading up to Easter, from Monday, April 14, 2025, to Maundy Thursday, April 17, 2025, the outlet operates from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. On the holiday days of Good Friday, Easter Saturday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday, the outlet extends its hours, closing at 10 p.m. This gives shoppers ample time to explore the variety of stores available.
In addition to the general shopping opportunities, this year’s Easter festivities at the outlet include the grand opening of a new Nike store on Maundy Thursday. The store spans approximately 3,000 square meters over two floors and has been designed with sustainability in mind. This new addition is expected to draw even more visitors to the outlet during the holiday.
For those who prefer to shop locally, Maundy Thursday remains a viable option as it is not a public holiday in Germany. All stores will be open, allowing shoppers to complete their Easter preparations before the holiday closures begin. However, Good Friday is a “silent holiday,” meaning that not only are shops closed, but public events are also restricted. This makes it essential for consumers to plan ahead.
On Easter Saturday, April 19, 2025, stores will again be open, providing one last chance for shoppers to pick up any last-minute items before the Easter Sunday and Monday closures. Most stores across Germany will be closed on these days, including in NRW, where residents will find themselves unable to shop. Nevertheless, some supermarkets in larger cities like Berlin and Hamburg may remain open, offering limited shopping options for those in need.
In addition to physical stores, online shopping presents a convenient alternative for consumers during the Easter holidays. With many brick-and-mortar stores closed, shoppers can take advantage of the internet to browse and purchase items from the comfort of their homes. This way, they can avoid the holiday shopping rush and have their purchases delivered directly to their doorsteps.
As people prepare for the Easter holiday, it is clear that planning is key for anyone hoping to shop during this festive time. With closures on key holiday dates and various shopping options available, consumers need to be mindful of their choices. Whether opting for a trip to Roermond’s shopping outlet or taking advantage of online shopping, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday while ensuring all shopping needs are met.
Ultimately, the Easter holiday offers a chance for relaxation and enjoyment, but it also requires a bit of foresight for those looking to shop. With the right planning, shoppers can make the most of their time off, ensuring they have everything they need for a joyful celebration.
