Quiet holiday

Description

On so-called ‘quiet’ public holidays, restrictions apply to public entertainment events in Bavaria. A general ban on public entertainment events applies on the following public holidays:

• From 2 am to midnight: Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Day of Repentance and Prayer, All Saints’ Day, Remembrance Day and All Souls’ Day
• From 2.00 pm to midnight: Christmas Eve
• From 00:00 to 24:00: Good Friday and Holy Saturday

Musical performances/concerts: On Good Friday, all types of musical performances in venues serving alcohol are generally prohibited. There is a strict ban on dancing. The ban on dancing also applies on the other days of solemn observance. Whether music may be played depends on the repertoire to be performed. An organiser must submit a sample repertoire to the District Administrative Office in advance, which must be compatible with the solemn nature of these quiet days. Exemptions will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Cabaret, variety and circus performances: Such performances are generally permitted on the ‘silent’ public holidays. However, the general ban on music on Good Friday must be observed. Sporting events: Sporting events are permitted – except on Good Friday and the Day of Repentance and Prayer. Amusement arcades: Amusement arcades must remain closed on quiet public holidays. They must also remain closed between 7 am and 11 am during the main church service times on Sundays and public holidays. This rule also applies to the operation of gaming machines in pubs and restaurants. Private gatherings and functions: Private gatherings – such as family celebrations, birthdays and weddings – are permitted provided that only a specific group of people has access to the event and access is denied to uninvited third parties.

Legal basis

Public Holidays Act (FTG)