Overview
- Across Germany, Aldi, Lidl, Rewe, Edeka and Kaufland confirm their branches are closed on 25–26 December.
- Under NRW’s Ladenöffnungsgesetz, shops at train stations and airports and many petrol stations may open on the holidays, though hours vary and should be checked locally.
- Essen Hauptbahnhof: Lidl is open on 25–26 December from 9:00 to 20:00 after trading 6:00–14:00 on Christmas Eve.
- Essen Hauptbahnhof: An Aldi at Willy‑Brandt‑Platz 7 is reported open on 25–26 December from 9:00 to 20:00, with Christmas Eve hours to 14:00.
- Rewe exceptions include Münster Hbf (10:00–16:00 on both days), Düsseldorf Airport (6:00–22:00 on both days) and Köln/Bonn Airport (25 Dec 6:00–24:00, 26 Dec continuous), while NRW bakeries may open up to five hours on 25 December but are reported closed on 26 December.