Greek stores are fully embracing the holiday spirit this year with extended Sunday hours, offering consumers ample opportunity to complete their Christmas shopping. Today, December 22, 2024, retail establishments across Greece are welcoming shoppers from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, closely aligning with the festive atmosphere of this year’s season. Shopping malls, on the other hand, will remain open until 8:00 PM, giving those who may not have had the chance to shop during the week the perfect time to gather last-minute gifts.
The decision to keep stores operational on Sundays during this peak shopping period is critically important for retailers and consumers alike. According to recent reports, the festive shopping hours are aimed at allowing consumers to purchase Christmas gifts, clothes, toys, and essentials without the usual weekday pressures.
"Με το εορταστικό ωράριο σε πλήρη εφαρμογή, οι πολίτες μπορούν να επισκεφτούν τόσο τα εμπορικά κέντρα όσο και τα τοπικά μαγαζιά για να προμηθευτούν δώρα, ρούχα, παιχνίδια και άλλα είδη," noted one spokesperson detailing the initiative’s efforts to boost consumer shopping experiences. This Sunday, families can enjoy shopping together and also soak up the festive atmosphere filling the air.
Supermarkets will also cater to the increasing shopping demand today with their own adjusted hours. Major chains such as Σκλαβενίτης, ΑΒ Βασιλόπουλος, and others are open from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, allowing shoppers to stock up on groceries and other necessities for their holiday dinners. Fresh produce, meats, and sweets are expected to be particularly popular among consumers this week as they prepare for their holiday feasts.
The detailed holiday shopping hours throughout the week are as follows: Today, December 22nd, stores will operate from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Tomorrow, December 23rd, hours will shift to 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, followed by December 24th when stores will close early at 6:00 PM. Retailers will then close on Christmas Day and the day after, resuming regular hours post-holiday.
For those feeling both pressure and excitement about the approaching Christmas day, today serves as one of the last major opportunities to enjoy and partake in holiday shopping. Many see this Sunday as ideal for leisurely shopping, allowing for festive strolls through local shops and malls. "Η ημέρα αυτή είναι ιδανική για βόλτα και ψώνια σε γιορτινό κλίμα," reflects the season's expectations for consumers.
Shopping centers such as The Mall Athens, Golden Hall, and others will operate on the same schedule, closing at 8:00 PM tonight. This is part of the larger trend among retailers to adapt their hours to consumer habits and needs leading up to the holidays.
Shoppers are encouraged to check local advertisements or store websites for any last-minute changes to hours, ensuring all needs are met thoroughly during this busy time. The growth of Christmas spirit encapsulated within Greek communities during this season is not only felt through purchases but also the joy of gift-giving and celebrating together.
When heading out to shop, consumers should make the most of today’s extended hours by planning their trips strategically, whether it be gathering gifts for loved ones or preparing for the special Christmas dinner.
Overall, this Sunday marks another opportunity for Greeks to engage with their local economy and celebrate the rich traditions tied to Christmas shopping. With the support of retailers, the festive feeling continues to grow as anticipation for Christmas Day builds.
While holiday shopping typically lends itself to crowds and competition, awareness and accessibility ensured by the Sunday hours add to the convenience and enjoyment for all. Let's take advantage of these extended hours, wrap up those last minute gifts, and make the most of this joyous season.
