For two Fridays in a row, residents of Czechia will enjoy long weekends. However, the beginning of May traditionally brings confusion to retail opening hours. Even though both holidays are public holidays, the law on sales rules treats them differently.
May 1 (Labor Day)
This coming Friday, May 1, shops will operate as usual. This holiday is not on the list of days with a sales ban. So, if you are planning a barbecue or a family meal, supermarkets will be available to you all day.
May 8 (Victory Day)
But a week later, the situation will change completely. On Friday, May 8, the legal ban takes effect: all large retail stores must close. Don't forget to do all your important shopping in advance so you don't find yourself with an empty refrigerator on the holiday.
Cheat Sheet for 2026: Store Opening Calendar
An important exception: the ban does not apply to shops in airports, train stations, hospitals, and gas stations. Small shops with an area of less than 200 square meters can also operate.
