The German flag flies over the Reichstag, the country’s parliament building, in Berlin. Oct. 3 is a German holiday celebrating the reunification of the country in 1990. (Michael Abrams/Stars and Stripes)

Thursday is German Unity Day, commemorating the reunification of West and East Germany 34 years ago.

Because it is a German federal holiday, stores, schools and offices will be closed for the observance. It is also possible that many businesses will stay closed on Friday as well.