Shopping Sundays and Public Holidays in Poland 2026: What You Need to Know
29.12.2025
Poland has one of the strictest Sunday trading laws in Europe. Since the introduction of the Sunday trading ban in 2018, most large stores and shopping malls are required to remain closed on Sundays, with only a limited number of exceptions permitted throughout the year.
Understanding shopping Sundays in Poland in 2026, as well as the public holidays when stores are closed, is essential for residents, expatriates, and tourists. Proper planning helps avoid last-minute shopping problems, especially around Easter, summer sales, and the Christmas season.
Quick overview: shopping and holidays in Poland 2026
-
✔️ Shopping Sundays in 2026: 8
-
❌ Most Sundays are non-trading
-
🛒 Large supermarkets are closed on public holidays
-
📅 December and spring are the most crucial shopping periods
Shopping Sundays in Poland 2026
Despite the general ban, Polish law allows trading on selected Sundays, mainly before major holidays or peak shopping seasons.
Complete list of shopping Sundays in Poland 2026:
-
25 January 2026 – winter sales period
-
29 March 2026 – before Easter
-
26 April 2026 – spring shopping season
-
28 June 2026 – mid-year sales
-
30 August 2026 – back-to-school shopping
-
6 December 2026 – St. Nicholas shopping (Mikołajki)
-
13 December 2026 – Christmas shopping
-
20 December 2026 – final Christmas shopping Sunday
On these days, major retailers such as Biedronka, Lidl, Carrefour, Auchan, Kaufland, as well as shopping malls across Poland, are allowed to operate normally.
Public Holidays in Poland 2026 (Non-Working Days)
In addition to Sundays, Poland observes several public holidays when almost all shops, shopping centres, and offices are closed.
Public holidays in Poland 2026:
-
1 January – New Year’s Day
-
6 January – Epiphany
-
5 April – Easter Sunday
-
6 April – Easter Monday
-
1 May – Labour Day
-
3 May – Constitution Day
-
4 June – Corpus Christi
-
15 August – Assumption of Mary / Polish Armed Forces Day
-
1 November – All Saints’ Day
-
11 November – Independence Day
-
25 December – Christmas Day
-
26 December – Second Day of Christmas
On these dates, shopping malls, supermarkets, and most local shops remain closed, with only essential services operating.
Exceptions to the Sunday Trading Ban
Not all businesses are affected by the Sunday shopping restrictions. The following types of stores may operate on non-trading Sundays:
-
Bakeries and pastry shops
-
Gas stations and convenience stores at fuel stations
-
Pharmacies
-
Owner-operated convenience stores (e.g. Żabka)
-
Shops at airports, train stations, and hotels
-
Online stores and delivery services
In tourist areas such as Zakopane, Gdańsk's Old Town, and Kraków, some small shops may also operate under special local permits or licenses.
Where You Can Shop on Non-Trading Sundays
Even when large stores are closed, you can still buy essentials:
-
Żabka convenience stores (often open with limited hours)
-
Gas station shops (Orlen, Shell, BP)
-
Pharmacies
-
Online shopping platforms such as Allegro.pl or Amazon.pl
-
Local markets (depending on city regulations)
Impact of the Trading Ban on Consumers and Retailers
The Sunday trading ban has significantly reshaped shopping habits in Poland:
-
Supermarkets focus on promotions on Fridays and Saturdays.
-
Shopping malls often host events on Sundays.
-
E-commerce continues to grow, especially before holidays.
-
Consumers plan purchases more carefully.
-
Small family-owned businesses benefit from reduced competition.
Planning Your Shopping in Poland 2026
If you live in or visit Poland in 2026, planning ahead is key.
Helpful tips:
-
Check the shopping Sunday dates in advance.
-
Confirm whether your local Żabka is open.
-
Use online shopping for non-trading Sundays.
-
Always check holiday opening hours.
For official information, visit gov.pl – Ministry of Development and Technology.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many shopping Sundays are there in Poland in 2026?
There are eight shopping Sundays scheduled in Poland in 2026.
Are stores open on public holidays in Poland?
No. On public holidays, most shops, supermarkets, and shopping malls are closed.
Can small shops open on non-shopping Sundays?
Yes. Small shops, such as Żabka franchises, operated directly by the owner, may remain open.
Are shopping malls open every Sunday in Poland?
No. Shopping malls open only on designated shopping Sundays.
Is online shopping available on Sundays and holidays?
Yes. Online stores and delivery services operate normally.
What should I do if stores are closed today in Poland?
Check gas stations, pharmacies, Żabka stores, or use online shopping platforms.
Conclusion
Knowing shopping Sundays and public holidays in Poland in 2026 helps you avoid inconvenience and plan your shopping efficiently. With only a few trading Sundays each year, early preparation is crucial — especially during the Easter and Christmas seasons.
