Framework for open nights

The city of Erlangen allows stores to be open until 11 p.m. on three days each year:

• on the Friday after Ascension Day
• on the last Friday in November and
• on the second Saturday in Advent.

The Erlangen City Council has now passed a corresponding ordinance that applies to the city center. It is based on the Bavarian Shop Closing Hours Act, which came into force in August.

The ordinance will initially apply for a limited period until the end of 2026 and is intended as a pilot phase. The experiences of retailers will then be evaluated in order to decide on a possible continuation or adjustment on this basis. The aim of the new regulation is to give new impetus to the retail sector in the city center while at the same time safeguarding the legitimate interests of employees.

Participation in the extended opening hours is voluntary. No business is obliged to take part in the open nights or to use the full period. The ordinance was drawn up in advance in close consultation with City-Management Erlangen e. V. and numerous retailers. This is to ensure that the selected dates and framework conditions meet the actual needs of local retailers.