In Slovakia, the rules for store operation on public holidays have changed, so planning shopping at the end of summer will become easier. This year, on August 29 (anniversary of the Slovenské národné povstanie (Slovak National Uprising)) and September 1 (Deň Ústavy Slovenskej republiky (Constitution Day)), most supermarkets will be open, although previously trade was prohibited on these days. We explain what exactly has changed and how the chains will operate.
August 29: Anniversary of the Slovenské národné povstanie (Slovak National Uprising)
On August 29, 2026, Slovakia celebrates the anniversary of the Slovenské národné povstanie (Slovak National Uprising). Although this day remains a public holiday and an official day off, the main change for you is that from 2026 stores are no longer prohibited from operating. This means that large retail chains will be open.
September 1: Deň Ústavy Slovenskej republiky (Constitution Day of the Slovak Republic)
September 1, 2026, is the Deň Ústavy Slovenskej republiky (Constitution Day of the Slovak Republic). This holiday also remains a public holiday, but since 2024 it has ceased to be a day off. Accordingly, for stores it is a normal working day.
Opening hours of large retail chains
Here is how large retail chains plan to operate on both holidays:
Lidl: Stores will operate on the standard schedule. We recommend checking the exact opening hours of your branch in the Lidl Plus app or on the official website.
Kaufland: Will be open from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Exception — the store in Bratislava's Avion shopping center, which will operate according to the shopping center's schedule.
Tesco: Will operate in the standard mode, with no changes in schedule or services.
Billa: Will be open without restrictions, according to the usual schedule of your branch.
METRO: On August 29, stores will operate from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. On September 1 — from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM. METRO gas stations will be open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM on both days.
COOP Jednota: On August 29, the schedule may vary depending on the region and type of store. On September 1, stores will operate as on a normal working day. Automated COOP Jednota stores operate 24/7, without days off.
Biedronka: Will operate on the standard schedule. It is better to check the opening hours of a specific store before visiting.
Other changes in the holiday calendar
These are not the only changes in Slovakia's holiday calendar. Keep in mind that:
since November 1, 2025, November 17 (Day of the Fight for Freedom and Democracy) is no longer a day off.
in 2026, May 8 (Victory Day over Fascism) and September 15 (Feast of Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows) are also working days. Although these dates remain commemorative, for work they are normal days.
If you plan shopping or travel, our advice: despite the relaxed rules, before going to a store on a holiday it is still better to check the current opening hours on the website or in the app of the specific chain.
