Day of Restoration of the Independent Czech State
Thursday, January 1, 2026
What is celebrated
Commemoration of the establishment of the independent Czech Republic on January 1, 1993, after the peaceful dissolution of Czechoslovakia. Following the Velvet Revolution (1989) and political negotiations, Czech Prime Minister Václav Klaus and Slovak Prime Minister Vladimír Mečiar agreed to divide the state. After 74 years of shared history, Czechs and Slovaks separated peacefully and amicably - this separation is therefore called the "Velvet Divorce".
Opening hours
Closed
Stores over 200 m²
Stores over 200 m² must be closed by law today.
Exceptions apply:
Exceptions apply
The following types of stores may remain open:
Gas stations
Shell, MOL...
Pharmacies
Airport shops
Relay, WHSmith...
Railway station shops
Pont, Relay...
Hospital shops
Shops under 200 m²
Žabka, Večerka...
E-commerce
Alza.cz, Mall.cz...
Frequently asked questions
Are stores over 200 m² open on Day of Restoration of the Independent Czech State?
No, stores with a sales area over 200 m² must remain closed by law.
Which stores can stay open?
The following may remain open: gas stations, pharmacies, airport and railway shops, stores up to 200 m², e-shops, and other exceptions.
Legal basis
- • Act No. 245/2000 Coll., on Holidays
- • Act No. 223/2016 Coll., on Opening Hours of Retail and Wholesale