With Christmas fast approaching, many Germans are gearing up for their last-minute holiday shopping on Christmas Eve, December 24th, 2023. This year, like many before, the typical shopping dynamics will shift as supermarkets operate under restricted hours. According to the Ladenöffnungsgesetz (LÖG), shops can remain open until 14:00 on Christmas Eve, which itself is not classified as a public holiday, unlike the first and second days of Christmas.
Supermarkets across Germany—including major chains such as Aldi, Lidl, Rewe, and Edeka—will see variations in their operating hours this festive season. Aldi will close its doors as early as 13:00, whereas Lidl will extend its hours slightly, closing at 14:00. Rewe stores are expected to follow the same early closing protocol, providing shoppers limited time to make those final purchases.
On the other hand, Edeka stores also have differing policies across locations, with most stores expecting to shutter around 13:00 or 14:00. Shoppers wishing to avoid the Christmas rush should note these timings carefully and plan their visits accordingly to prevent disappointment.
The ability to shop early has been emphasized by many sources, as many stores intend to close early to allow employees to spend time with their families during this key holiday. "Die Geschäfte haben am 24. Dezember, der anders als der erste und zweite Weihnachtstag kein gesetzlicher Feiertag ist, grundsätzlich bis 14 Uhr geöffnet," according to the relevant law authority overseeing these store regulations.
Those running late on supplies shouldn't despair, as there are alternatives. Stores located at airports, train stations, and travel hubs often have longer operating hours, allowing for last-minute purchases even when local supermarkets have closed. This fact will be particularly beneficial for travelers and those returning home who need to grab ingredients for Christmas dinner.
Locations such as Rewe at major train stations and several other outlets are often open well beyond the 14:00 closing time applicable to most regular retail stores. For example, the Rewe supermarket at Berlin's Hauptbahnhof will remain open until 20:00 on Christmas Eve to accommodate those making late food runs.
It's important for consumers to stay informed about these varying hours, especially with the chaos of holiday shopping. "An Heiligabend, dem 24. Dezember, öffnen Edeka-Märkte ... Vielerorts schließen die Filialen bereits um 13 oder 14 Uhr," confirmed the KURIER, stressing the need for shoppers to be proactive.
Besides food shopping, many families might find themselves racing against the clock to secure those last wrapping supplies or gifts. Convenience store chains and stations typically provide late hours, thereby giving customers the flexibility to shop even at the last moment.
For optimal planning, locals should check online or contact their specific supermarkets for the most current information on hours during the holiday season. It's wise to make early visits to combat any potential surprises, especially since many stores will be closed entirely on December 25 and 26. The routine resumption of business is not expected until December 27, making preparation all the more important.
Therefore, it’s time for everyone to plan well to sidestep the usual holiday shopping stress. By observing these hour changes and ensuring all needs are addressed well before the evening of the 24th, families can look forward to festive celebrations without the angst of forgotten ingredients or last-minute panics.