The May Day holiday in Poland is a time of celebration and reflection, marking the arrival of spring and the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. This year, the holiday takes on special significance as it has been celebrated for 75 years, officially recognized as a national holiday since 1950. The roots of this celebration trace back to 1889 when labor protests in Chicago advocated for an eight-hour workday. The establishment of International Workers' Day was formalized during the Second International Congress held in Paris, aimed at highlighting workers' rights.
As May 1st approaches, many are preparing for the long weekend, which also includes the Constitution Day holiday on May 3rd. In 2025, May 1st falls on a Thursday, followed by a regular working day on May 2nd, and then another holiday on May 3rd, which is a Saturday. This creates a perfect opportunity for a long weekend getaway or family gatherings.
However, with the holidays come questions about shopping availability. Most large-format stores, markets, and shopping malls will be closed on May 1st and May 3rd, meaning many will need to plan their shopping accordingly. On April 30, some stores will have extended hours to accommodate last-minute shoppers. For instance, Kaufland will be open from 6 AM to 11 PM, Carrefour from 6 AM to 9 PM or 11 PM, Lidl from 6 AM to 10 PM, Biedronka from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM, Auchan from 6 AM to 10 PM, Aldi from 6 AM to 11 PM, Dino from 6 AM to 10 PM, and Żabka from 6 AM to 11 PM.
On May 1st, while most stores will be closed, small franchise stores like Żabka may open, but their hours will depend on individual franchise owners. The same applies to May 3rd. May 2nd, however, is a regular working day, and all major stores will be open, including Biedronka, Lidl, and Auchan, providing ample opportunity for shopping.
As the long weekend approaches, many consumers are eager to kick off the grilling season. To cater to this demand, Dino has announced attractive offers on various meat products. On April 30, the chain will be open from 6 AM to 11 PM, allowing consumers to stock up on essentials. They are offering competitive prices on pork neck, sausages, and other grilling staples. For example, prices for various meats include parówki śląskie at 11.99 zł/kg, kiełbaski pyszne at 24.99 zł/kg, and kiełbasę myśliwską at 34.99 zł/kg. Additionally, special promotions include a “buy two, get one free” offer on selected items, making it an excellent time for shoppers to take advantage of these deals.
In preparation for the grilling season, customers are also looking for essential grilling supplies. Dino is providing various grilling products, including grill trays, disposable cups, and charcoal at competitive prices. For instance, charcoal (2.5 kg) is available for 14.99 zł, and other grilling accessories are being offered at attractive rates.
Meanwhile, Biedronka is extending its hours leading up to the holiday, remaining open from 5:30 AM on April 29 until 11:30 PM on April 30. This extended schedule is designed to help customers prepare for the upcoming holidays without the stress of time constraints.
For those planning to shop at Lidl, the stores will operate under standard hours on April 30 and May 2, but will remain closed on May 1 and May 3. The same applies to Auchan and Netto, which will also be closed on these key dates.
As shoppers consider their options, it is essential to remember that while large stores will be closed on public holidays, smaller local shops may remain open if the owner is present. Gas stations, bakeries, and some tourist-related services will also be operational, providing limited shopping opportunities during the holiday.
In summary, the May Day long weekend is not only a time for relaxation and celebration in Poland but also a logistical challenge for shoppers. With most large stores closed on the key holiday dates, consumers must plan ahead to ensure they have everything they need for the festivities. With many retailers offering extended hours and special promotions, the excitement for the May Day weekend is palpable.
As this holiday approaches, many are reminded of its significance and the importance of workers' rights, which it commemorates. The legacy of May Day continues to resonate, making it a day of reflection as well as celebration.
