31 10 26 Feiertag
In short
31 October 2026 is the Reformation Day public holiday in several German states, such as Saxony and Thuringia. While many shops will be closed, some businesses in major transport hubs like Leipzig's main station remain open.
In plain words
It is a religious holiday marking the Protestant Reformation. In many parts of Germany, people do not have to work, though some regions do not observe it as a day off.
A simple example
In Leipzig, most local shops will shut for the day, but several pharmacies and shops in the central train station will stay open until 8 pm.
Why it matters
It affects business hours, school schedules, and travel plans across central Germany. It also sparks political debate, such as recent calls from the Green Party in Schleswig-Holstein for new public holidays.
Easy to mix up
Do not confuse it with Halloween, which occurs on the same day but is a cultural celebration rather than a religious or official public holiday.