Debrecen4U
December 23, 2025
Holiday Opening Hours: This Is How Shops Will Be Open — and Where to Find a Doctor If You Need Help
This year, December 24 falls on a Wednesday, which has significantly reshaped the usual schedule. Although the Labour Code considers it a rest day, there is no uniform regulation for commerce and services.
Store opening hours during holiday: Anyone who doesn’t finish their shopping by noon on December 24 may be out of luck. After 12 p.m., almost every shop in Debrecen closes.
On December 24, Lidl will be closed all day, as will most smaller specialty shops and boutiques. Aldi will be open from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m., Auchan from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m., Tesco from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m. (including Tesco Extra and the smaller Express stores), SPAR and INTERSPAR also from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m., Penny from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m., and Metro from 5:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Shopping malls in Debrecen: In the Fórum, shops will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., while in the Plaza they will be open from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Cinemas may operate on a different schedule and can remain open in the afternoon.
On December 25 and 26, all major shops and shopping centres will be closed. Only petrol station shops, flower shops, sweet shops, and 24/7 convenience stores may remain open.
Debrecen Advent Fair: Good news for those who would like to take a walk downtown after shopping or before Christmas dinner. The Debrecen Advent Fair will not close completely. Although some vendors go home for the holidays, the main square promenade, the huge Christmas tree, and the festive lights will continue to welcome visitors. Food and drink vendors (mulled wine stands, chimney cake stalls) will remain open until early afternoon on December 24 for one last toast, and between the holidays the gastro promenade will again operate at full capacity — perfect for walking off the Christmas feast.
GP and Dental Emergency Services
If the problem is serious but does not require an ambulance, it is best to call first the University of Debrecen Clinical Centre, Emergency Clinic (Debrecen, Nagyerdei körút 98.), which operates 24/7 throughout the holidays (Phone number: + 36 52 411 600 / extension 59479). For more information, click here >>>
The dental emergency service is at Pósa Street 1. They are also available by phone.
On public holidays, the clinic is open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Pharmacy On-Call Service: Continuous access to medication is ensured in Debrecen during the holidays. The BENU Pharmacy on Csapó Street 1 is open 24 hours a day.
Public Transport: Holiday schedules apply to public transport as well. On December 24, buses, trams, and trolleybuses run according to the usual schedule until 4 p.m. After 4 p.m., the entire network shuts down, and only on-call services operate (typically hourly on the main routes). On December 25 and 26, the public holiday timetable applies.
Veterinary Emergency Service: If your pet needs urgent care, the University of Debrecen Animal Hospital will accept emergency cases during the holiday period as well (Böszörményi Road 138.), and you can reach them by phone (+36-52-485-203). Most private veterinary clinics are closed during the holidays, so in serious cases it is advisable to call ahead or go directly to the emergency service.
Waste Collection: Although much more waste is generated during the holidays, waste collection will not stop. According to AKSD Ltd., waste collection will follow the usual schedule on December 24, 25, and 26. Bins must be placed outside by 6 a.m. on all three days, as collection vehicles may arrive earlier than usual. The customer service office on Vágóhíd Street and the Residential Waste Yard (István Road) will be closed on public holidays.
Source: dehir.hu
