This list includes national holidays, public holidays, and observances for United Kingdom in 2025. Some holidays may be regional or observed only in specific locations.
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Date
Holiday
Description
Type
Location
January
Wed
Wednesday, January 1, 2025
New Year's Day
New Year's Day marks the start of a new year in the Gregorian calendar, the official calendar used in the United Kingdom.
New Year's Day marks the start of a new year in the Gregorian calendar, the official calendar used in the United Kingdom.
Bank Holiday
All
Thu
Thursday, January 2, 2025
Last day of Hanukkah
The eighth and last day of Hanukkah marks the end of a period in which Jews commemorate the miracle of the cruse of oil.
The eighth and last day of Hanukkah marks the end of a period in which Jews commemorate the miracle of the cruse of oil.
Jewish Holiday
All
Thu
Thursday, January 2, 2025
2nd January
January 2 is an annual bank holiday and the last day of the Hogmanay (New Year) celebrations in Scotland.
January 2 is an annual bank holiday and the last day of the Hogmanay (New Year) celebrations in Scotland.
Local Bank Holiday
SCT
Sun
Sunday, January 5, 2025
Twelfth Night
Twelfth Night is a observance and Christian holiday in the United Kingdom
Twelfth Night is a observance and Christian holiday in the United Kingdom
Christian
All
Mon
Monday, January 6, 2025
Epiphany
Epiphany marks the visit of the Magi to Jesus and celebrates the revelation of God incarnate as Jesus Christ.
Epiphany marks the visit of the Magi to Jesus and celebrates the revelation of God incarnate as Jesus Christ.
Christian
All
Tue
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Orthodox Christmas Day
Orthodox Christians in the United Kingdom celebrate the Nativity of Christ (Jesus' birth) on the Orthodox Christmas Day.
Orthodox Christians in the United Kingdom celebrate the Nativity of Christ (Jesus' birth) on the Orthodox Christmas Day.
Orthodox
All
Tue
Tuesday, January 14, 2025
Orthodox New Year
Orthodox Christians in the United Kingdom mark the start of a new calendar year on either January 1 or 14 in the Gregorian calendar.
Orthodox Christians in the United Kingdom mark the start of a new calendar year on either January 1 or 14 in the Gregorian calendar.
Orthodox
All
Sat
Saturday, January 25, 2025
Burns Night
Burns Night celebrates the life and work of Robert Burns and Scottish culture in general. It is on or around January 25 each year.
Burns Night celebrates the life and work of Robert Burns and Scottish culture in general. It is on or around January 25 each year.
Local Observance
SCT
Mon
Monday, January 27, 2025
Isra and Mi'raj
Isra and Mi'raj marks the night when the Prophet Mohammad traveled from Mecca to Jerusalem, ascended to heaven, and returned.
Isra and Mi'raj marks the night when the Prophet Mohammad traveled from Mecca to Jerusalem, ascended to heaven, and returned.
Muslim
All
Wed
Wednesday, January 29, 2025
Lunar New Year
Lunar New Year in the United Kingdom (UK) marks the start of the New Year in the Chinese calendar.
Lunar New Year in the United Kingdom (UK) marks the start of the New Year in the Chinese calendar.
Observance
All
February
Thu
Thursday, February 13, 2025
Tu B'Shevat (Arbor Day)
Tu B’Shevat is known as the “New Year for Trees”, is one of the four Jewish New Years.
Tu B’Shevat is known as the “New Year for Trees”, is one of the four Jewish New Years.
Jewish Holiday
All
Fri
Friday, February 14, 2025
Valentine's Day
Valentine’s Day is celebrated in the UK as a day of love and falls on February 14 every year.
Valentine’s Day is celebrated in the UK as a day of love and falls on February 14 every year.
Observance
All
Wed
Wednesday, February 26, 2025
Maha Shivaratri
Maha Shivratri is an annual festival dedicated to Shiva, the Hindu God of destruction. For devotees, is a day of reflection and meditation.
Maha Shivratri is an annual festival dedicated to Shiva, the Hindu God of destruction. For devotees, is a day of reflection and meditation.
Hindu Holiday
All
March
Sat
Saturday, March 1, 2025
Ramadan Start
Muslims in the United Kingdom welcome Ramadan as a period of fasting, self-evaluation, and spiritual growth.
Muslims in the United Kingdom welcome Ramadan as a period of fasting, self-evaluation, and spiritual growth.
Muslim
All
Sat
Saturday, March 1, 2025
St. David's Day
People in Wales and Welsh communities around the world celebrate the life of their patron saint, St David, and the culture of their country on St David’s Day.
People in Wales and Welsh communities around the world celebrate the life of their patron saint, St David, and the culture of their country on St David’s Day.
Local Observance
WAL
Sun
Sunday, March 2, 2025
Ramadan Start
Muslims in the United Kingdom welcome Ramadan as a period of fasting, self-evaluation, and spiritual growth.
Muslims in the United Kingdom welcome Ramadan as a period of fasting, self-evaluation, and spiritual growth.
Muslim
All
Tue
Tuesday, March 4, 2025
Carnival / Shrove Tuesday / Pancake Day
Shrove Tuesday is also known as Pancake Tuesday in the United Kingdom.
Shrove Tuesday is also known as Pancake Tuesday in the United Kingdom.
Christian
All
Wed
Wednesday, March 5, 2025
Carnival / Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday is a Christian observance in the United Kingdom. It is the first day of Lent.
Ash Wednesday is a Christian observance in the United Kingdom. It is the first day of Lent.
Christian
All
Fri
Friday, March 14, 2025
Purim
Purim commemorates a time when Jewish people were saved from death around the fourth century BCE, according to the Book of Esther.
Purim commemorates a time when Jewish people were saved from death around the fourth century BCE, according to the Book of Esther.
Jewish Holiday
All
Mon
Monday, March 17, 2025
St Patrick's Day
St Patrick's Day remembers the life and deeds of St Patrick, one of Ireland's patron saints. It also celebrates Irish culture.
St Patrick's Day remembers the life and deeds of St Patrick, one of Ireland's patron saints. It also celebrates Irish culture.
Local Bank Holiday
NIR
Thu
Thursday, March 20, 2025
March Equinox
March Equinox in the United Kingdom (London)
March Equinox in the United Kingdom (London)
Season
All
Wed
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Lailat al-Qadr
Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Power, is the holiest day of the Islamic calendar year.
Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Power, is the holiest day of the Islamic calendar year.
Muslim
All
Sun
Sunday, March 30, 2025
Eid ul Fitr
Eid ul-Fitr is a Muslim celebration that marks the end of the month-long fast of Ramadan.
Eid ul-Fitr is a Muslim celebration that marks the end of the month-long fast of Ramadan.
Muslim
All
Sun
Sunday, March 30, 2025
Mother's Day
Mother's Day, or Mothering Sunday, is traditionally a day to visit your mother church. It is now an occasion to bring gifts to your own mother.
Mother's Day, or Mothering Sunday, is traditionally a day to visit your mother church. It is now an occasion to bring gifts to your own mother.
Observance
All
Sun
Sunday, March 30, 2025
Daylight Saving Time starts
Daylight Saving Time starts in the United Kingdom
Daylight Saving Time starts in the United Kingdom
Clock change/Daylight Saving Time
All
Mon
Monday, March 31, 2025
Eid ul Fitr
Eid ul-Fitr is a Muslim celebration that marks the end of the month-long fast of Ramadan.
Eid ul-Fitr is a Muslim celebration that marks the end of the month-long fast of Ramadan.
Muslim
All
April
Sun
Sunday, April 13, 2025
Palm Sunday
Palm Sunday in the United Kingdom celebrates Jesus Christ’s entry into Jerusalem. It is also the Sunday before Easter Sunday.
Palm Sunday in the United Kingdom celebrates Jesus Christ’s entry into Jerusalem. It is also the Sunday before Easter Sunday.
Christian
All
Sun
Sunday, April 13, 2025
First day of Passover
Passover marks the Israelites' liberation from slavery and their exodus from Egypt around 3000 years ago.
Passover marks the Israelites' liberation from slavery and their exodus from Egypt around 3000 years ago.
Jewish Holiday
All
Thu
Thursday, April 17, 2025
Maundy Thursday
Many Christians in the United Kingdom celebrate Maundy Thursday on the Thursday before Good Friday.
Many Christians in the United Kingdom celebrate Maundy Thursday on the Thursday before Good Friday.
Christian
All
Fri
Friday, April 18, 2025
Orthodox Good Friday
Many Orthodox Christians in the United Kingdom remember the events leading up to Jesus Christ's crucifixion on Great Friday, also known as Holy Friday.
Many Orthodox Christians in the United Kingdom remember the events leading up to Jesus Christ's crucifixion on Great Friday, also known as Holy Friday.
Orthodox
All
Fri
Friday, April 18, 2025
Good Friday
Good Friday is just before Easter Sunday and is a public holiday in the United Kingdom.
Good Friday is just before Easter Sunday and is a public holiday in the United Kingdom.
Bank Holiday
All
Sat
Saturday, April 19, 2025
Holy Saturday
Holy Saturday is the day before Easter Sunday in the United Kingdom.
Holy Saturday is the day before Easter Sunday in the United Kingdom.
Christian
All
Sat
Saturday, April 19, 2025
Orthodox Holy Saturday
Many Orthodox Christians in the United Kingdom remember Jesus Christ’s burial and his descent into Hades on Holy Saturday.
Many Orthodox Christians in the United Kingdom remember Jesus Christ’s burial and his descent into Hades on Holy Saturday.
Orthodox
All
Sun
Sunday, April 20, 2025
Last day of Passover
On the 8th and last day of Passover, Jews in the UK commemorate the Parting of the Red Sea and the Israelites' escape from Egypt.
On the 8th and last day of Passover, Jews in the UK commemorate the Parting of the Red Sea and the Israelites' escape from Egypt.
Jewish Holiday
All
Sun
Sunday, April 20, 2025
Orthodox Easter
Many Orthodox Christians in the United Kingdom commemorate Jesus Christ’s resurrection on Easter Day, also known as Pascha.
Many Orthodox Christians in the United Kingdom commemorate Jesus Christ’s resurrection on Easter Day, also known as Pascha.
Orthodox
All
Sun
Sunday, April 20, 2025
Easter Sunday
Easter Sunday commemorates Jesus Christ's resurrection. The Easter egg hunt is one of the most popular Easter traditions
Easter Sunday commemorates Jesus Christ's resurrection. The Easter egg hunt is one of the most popular Easter traditions
Christian
All
Mon
Monday, April 21, 2025
Orthodox Easter Monday
Many Orthodox churches in the United Kingdom observe Easter Monday on the day after the Orthodox Easter Sunday date.
Many Orthodox churches in the United Kingdom observe Easter Monday on the day after the Orthodox Easter Sunday date.
Orthodox
All
Mon
Monday, April 21, 2025
Easter Monday
Easter Monday is the day after Easter Sunday. It is a bank holiday in England, Wales and Northern Ireland but not in Scotland.
Easter Monday is the day after Easter Sunday. It is a bank holiday in England, Wales and Northern Ireland but not in Scotland.
Local Observance
SCT
Mon
Monday, April 21, 2025
Easter Monday
Easter Monday is the day after Easter Sunday. It is a bank holiday in England, Wales and Northern Ireland but not in Scotland.
Easter Monday is the day after Easter Sunday. It is a bank holiday in England, Wales and Northern Ireland but not in Scotland.
Common Local Holiday
ENG, WAL, NIR
Tue
Tuesday, April 22, 2025
Stephen Lawrence Day
Stephen Lawrence Day is an annual observance in the UK commemorating the racially motivated murder of Stephen Lawrence.
Stephen Lawrence Day is an annual observance in the UK commemorating the racially motivated murder of Stephen Lawrence.
Observance
All
Wed
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
St. George's Day
St George's Day in England is a celebration of Saint George, a Christian martyr and soldier in the Roman army.
St George's Day in England is a celebration of Saint George, a Christian martyr and soldier in the Roman army.
Local Observance
All
Wed
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Shakespeare Day
National Shakespeare Day, also known as Shakespeare Day, is annually held on April 23.
National Shakespeare Day, also known as Shakespeare Day, is annually held on April 23.
Observance
All
Fri
Friday, April 25, 2025
Yom HaShoah
Yom Hashoah, held on the 27th day of the month of Nisan, remembers the Holocaust victims who died during World War II.
Yom Hashoah, held on the 27th day of the month of Nisan, remembers the Holocaust victims who died during World War II.
Jewish Commemoration
All
Mon
Monday, April 28, 2025
St. George's Day
St George's Day in England is a celebration of Saint George, a Christian martyr and soldier in the Roman army.
St George's Day in England is a celebration of Saint George, a Christian martyr and soldier in the Roman army.
Christian
All
May
Thu
Thursday, May 1, 2025
Yom HaAtzmaut
Celebrated on the fifth day of the Jewish month of Iyar, Yom Ha’Atzmaut is Israel’s Independence Day.
Celebrated on the fifth day of the Jewish month of Iyar, Yom Ha’Atzmaut is Israel’s Independence Day.
Jewish Holiday
All
Mon
Monday, May 5, 2025
Early May Bank Holiday
May Day, or the Early May Bank holiday, is on the first Monday of May each year.
May Day, or the Early May Bank holiday, is on the first Monday of May each year.
Bank Holiday
All
Fri
Friday, May 16, 2025
Lag B'Omer
Jewish people observe Lag BaOmer on the 18th day of the month of Iyar in the Jewish calendar.
Jewish people observe Lag BaOmer on the 18th day of the month of Iyar in the Jewish calendar.
Jewish Holiday
All
Mon
Monday, May 26, 2025
Spring Bank Holiday
The spring bank holiday in the United Kingdom is on the last Monday of May each year.
The spring bank holiday in the United Kingdom is on the last Monday of May each year.
Bank Holiday
All
Thu
Thursday, May 29, 2025
Ascension Day
Ascension Day is the 40th day of Easter and commemorates Jesus Christ’s ascension into heaven, according to Christian belief.
Ascension Day is the 40th day of Easter and commemorates Jesus Christ’s ascension into heaven, according to Christian belief.
Christian
All
June
Mon
Monday, June 2, 2025
Shavuot
Shavuot, also known as the Festival of Weeks, is one of three major Jewish festivals celebrated among Jewish people in the UK.
Shavuot, also known as the Festival of Weeks, is one of three major Jewish festivals celebrated among Jewish people in the UK.
Jewish Holiday
All
Sat
Saturday, June 7, 2025
Eid al-Adha
Eid ul-Adha is an Islamic festival to remember Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son to God.
Eid ul-Adha is an Islamic festival to remember Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son to God.
Muslim
All
Sun
Sunday, June 8, 2025
Pentecost
Many Christians in the United Kingdom observe Pentecost, also known as Whitsunday or Whit Sunday.
Many Christians in the United Kingdom observe Pentecost, also known as Whitsunday or Whit Sunday.
Christian
All
Mon
Monday, June 9, 2025
Whit Monday
Whit Monday is a Christian observance also known as Pentecost Monday. It is the day after Pentecost, or Whitsunday.
Whit Monday is a Christian observance also known as Pentecost Monday. It is the day after Pentecost, or Whitsunday.
Christian
All
Sat
Saturday, June 14, 2025
King's Birthday
The King’s birthday is an annual public holiday in Australia celebrating the official birthday of King Charles III.
The King’s birthday is an annual public holiday in Australia celebrating the official birthday of King Charles III.
Observance
All
Sun
Sunday, June 15, 2025
Trinity Sunday
Trinity Sunday, which is the first Sunday after Pentecost, is a Christian feast that is observed in many churches in the United Kingdom.
Trinity Sunday, which is the first Sunday after Pentecost, is a Christian feast that is observed in many churches in the United Kingdom.
Christian
All
Sun
Sunday, June 15, 2025
Father's Day
Father's Day in the United Kingdom honors fathers and celebrates fatherhood.
Father's Day in the United Kingdom honors fathers and celebrates fatherhood.
Observance
All
Thu
Thursday, June 19, 2025
Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi is a Christian observance that honors the Holy Eucharist.
Corpus Christi is a Christian observance that honors the Holy Eucharist.
Christian
All
Sat
Saturday, June 21, 2025
June Solstice
June Solstice in the United Kingdom (London)
June Solstice in the United Kingdom (London)
Season
All
Sun
Sunday, June 22, 2025
Windrush Day
Windrush Day is an annual observance in the UK honoring the British Caribbean community.
Windrush Day is an annual observance in the UK honoring the British Caribbean community.
Observance
All
Fri
Friday, June 27, 2025
Muharram/Islamic New Year
The first day of Muharram, which is the first month in the Islamic calendar, marks the Islamic New Year.
The first day of Muharram, which is the first month in the Islamic calendar, marks the Islamic New Year.
Muslim
All
July
Sun
Sunday, July 6, 2025
Ashura
On Ashura, many Muslims commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Husayn ibn Ali.
On Ashura, many Muslims commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Husayn ibn Ali.
Muslim
All
Sat
Saturday, July 12, 2025
Battle of the Boyne
Orangemen's Day is a bank holiday in Northern Ireland to commemorate the Battle of the Boyne.
Orangemen's Day is a bank holiday in Northern Ireland to commemorate the Battle of the Boyne.
Local Bank Holiday
NIR
Mon
Monday, July 14, 2025
Battle of the Boyne observed
Orangemen's Day is a bank holiday in Northern Ireland to commemorate the Battle of the Boyne.
Orangemen's Day is a bank holiday in Northern Ireland to commemorate the Battle of the Boyne.
Local Bank Holiday
NIR
August
Sun
Sunday, August 3, 2025
Tisha B'Av
Tisha B’Av is a Jewish day of mourning, which falls on the ninth day of the month of Av in the Jewish calendar.
Tisha B’Av is a Jewish day of mourning, which falls on the ninth day of the month of Av in the Jewish calendar.
Jewish Holiday
All
Mon
Monday, August 4, 2025
Summer Bank Holiday
The summer bank holiday is on the first Monday of August in Scotland and the last Monday of August in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The summer bank holiday is on the first Monday of August in Scotland and the last Monday of August in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Local Bank Holiday
SCT
Fri
Friday, August 15, 2025
Assumption of Mary
The feast of the Dormition or Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is celebrated by some Christian denominations in the United Kingdom on August 15.
The feast of the Dormition or Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is celebrated by some Christian denominations in the United Kingdom on August 15.
Christian
All
Fri
Friday, August 15, 2025
Janmashtami (Smarta)
Janmashtami (Smarta) is a Hindu holiday in the United Kingdom
Janmashtami (Smarta) is a Hindu holiday in the United Kingdom
Hindu Holiday
All
Sat
Saturday, August 16, 2025
Janmashtami
Krishna Janmashtami is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Krishna, the eighth incarnation of the god Vishnu. It is celebrated on the eighth day of the Hindu month of Bhadrava (Bhadrapada), which is usually in August or September.
Krishna Janmashtami is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Krishna, the eighth incarnation of the god Vishnu. It is celebrated on the eighth day of the Hindu month of Bhadrava (Bhadrapada), which is usually in August or September.
Hindu Holiday
All
Mon
Monday, August 25, 2025
Summer Bank Holiday
The summer bank holiday is on the first Monday of August in Scotland and the last Monday of August in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The summer bank holiday is on the first Monday of August in Scotland and the last Monday of August in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Common Local Holiday
ENG, WAL, NIR
Tue
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
Ganesh Chaturthi
Ganesh Chaturthi is the great Ganesha festival that celebrates the birthday of Lord Ganesha during the Hindu Month of Bhadra, which usually falls between mid-August and mid-September. It is also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi and can last up to 10 days.
Ganesh Chaturthi is the great Ganesha festival that celebrates the birthday of Lord Ganesha during the Hindu Month of Bhadra, which usually falls between mid-August and mid-September. It is also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi and can last up to 10 days.
Hindu Holiday
All
September
Fri
Friday, September 5, 2025
Milad un Nabi (Mawlid)
Milad un Nabi, also called Mawlid, marks the birthday of prophet Muhammad.
Milad un Nabi, also called Mawlid, marks the birthday of prophet Muhammad.
Muslim
All
Mon
Monday, September 22, 2025
September Equinox
September Equinox in the United Kingdom (London)
September Equinox in the United Kingdom (London)
Season
All
Tue
Tuesday, September 23, 2025
Rosh Hashana
Rosh Hashanah, also spelled Rosh Hashana, is commonly known as the Jewish New Year.
Rosh Hashanah, also spelled Rosh Hashana, is commonly known as the Jewish New Year.
Jewish Holiday
All
October
Thu
Thursday, October 2, 2025
Yom Kippur
Yom Kippur is arguably the holiest of the Jewish holidays. It is celebrated in October or November.
Yom Kippur is arguably the holiest of the Jewish holidays. It is celebrated in October or November.
Jewish Holiday
All
Sat
Saturday, October 4, 2025
Feast of St Francis of Assisi
Many churches in the United Kingdom celebrate the Feast of St Francis of Assisi to honor St Francis, the patron saint of animals and the environment, on October 4 each year.
Many churches in the United Kingdom celebrate the Feast of St Francis of Assisi to honor St Francis, the patron saint of animals and the environment, on October 4 each year.
Christian
All
Tue
Tuesday, October 7, 2025
First day of Sukkot
Sukkot is a Jewish holiday lasting 7 days. It begins on the 15th of Tishrei, which falls into September or October.
Sukkot is a Jewish holiday lasting 7 days. It begins on the 15th of Tishrei, which falls into September or October.
Jewish Holiday
All
Mon
Monday, October 13, 2025
Hoshana Rabbah
Jewish people in the UK celebrate Hoshana Rabbah, also spelled Hoshana Raba, on the last day of the Sukkot festival.
Jewish people in the UK celebrate Hoshana Rabbah, also spelled Hoshana Raba, on the last day of the Sukkot festival.
Jewish Holiday
All
Tue
Tuesday, October 14, 2025
Shemini Atzeret
Shemini Atzeret, also spelled Shmini Atzeret, is a joyous Jewish holiday that immediately follows the Sukkot festival.
Shemini Atzeret, also spelled Shmini Atzeret, is a joyous Jewish holiday that immediately follows the Sukkot festival.
Jewish Holiday
All
Wed
Wednesday, October 15, 2025
Simchat Torah
Simchat Torah (Simchas Torah or Simhat Torah) is a Jewish holiday that celebrates the completion of the annual reading of the Torah.
Simchat Torah (Simchas Torah or Simhat Torah) is a Jewish holiday that celebrates the completion of the annual reading of the Torah.
Jewish Holiday
All
Tue
Tuesday, October 21, 2025
Diwali/Deepavali
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year.
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year.
Hindu Holiday
All
Sun
Sunday, October 26, 2025
Daylight Saving Time ends
Daylight Saving Time ends in the United Kingdom
Daylight Saving Time ends in the United Kingdom
Clock change/Daylight Saving Time
All
Fri
Friday, October 31, 2025
Halloween
Halloween is an observance celebrated at the end of October by holding parties, dressing up and going 'trick-or-treating'.
Halloween is an observance celebrated at the end of October by holding parties, dressing up and going 'trick-or-treating'.
Observance
All
November
Sat
Saturday, November 1, 2025
All Saints' Day
Many Christians in the United Kingdom observe All Saints' Day, also known as All Hallows' Day, each year.
Many Christians in the United Kingdom observe All Saints' Day, also known as All Hallows' Day, each year.
Christian
All
Sun
Sunday, November 2, 2025
All Souls' Day
All Souls’ Day is observed among some Christian communities in the United Kingdom on November 2 each year.
All Souls’ Day is observed among some Christian communities in the United Kingdom on November 2 each year.
Christian
All
Wed
Wednesday, November 5, 2025
Guy Fawkes Day
Guy Fawkes' Night, or Bonfire Night, commemorates the prevention of a plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament in London in 1605.
Guy Fawkes' Night, or Bonfire Night, commemorates the prevention of a plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament in London in 1605.
Observance
All
Sun
Sunday, November 9, 2025
Remembrance Sunday
The United Kingdom observes Remembrance Day to remember those who sacrificed their lives during wars and conflicts, including World War I.
The United Kingdom observes Remembrance Day to remember those who sacrificed their lives during wars and conflicts, including World War I.
Observance
All
Sun
Sunday, November 30, 2025
First Sunday of Advent
The first Sunday in Advent is the start of the liturgical or church year for many Christians as well as the Christmas season for people in the United Kingdom (UK).
The first Sunday in Advent is the start of the liturgical or church year for many Christians as well as the Christmas season for people in the United Kingdom (UK).
Christian
All
Sun
Sunday, November 30, 2025
St Andrew's Day
St Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland and St Andrew's Day is a bank holiday in Scotland.
St Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland and St Andrew's Day is a bank holiday in Scotland.
Local Bank Holiday
SCT
December
Mon
Monday, December 1, 2025
St Andrew's Day observed
St Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland and St Andrew's Day is a bank holiday in Scotland.
St Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland and St Andrew's Day is a bank holiday in Scotland.
Local Bank Holiday
SCT
Mon
Monday, December 8, 2025
Feast of the Immaculate Conception
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception celebrates the conception of Mary, mother of Jesus Christ, on December 8 each year.
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception celebrates the conception of Mary, mother of Jesus Christ, on December 8 each year.
Christian
All
Mon
Monday, December 15, 2025
First Day of Hanukkah
Jewish people around the world celebrate Hanukkah to commemorate an event traditionally termed the miracle of the cruse of oil.
Jewish people around the world celebrate Hanukkah to commemorate an event traditionally termed the miracle of the cruse of oil.
Jewish Holiday
All
Sun
Sunday, December 21, 2025
December Solstice
December Solstice in the United Kingdom (London)
December Solstice in the United Kingdom (London)
Season
All
Mon
Monday, December 22, 2025
Last day of Hanukkah
The eighth and last day of Hanukkah marks the end of a period in which Jews commemorate the miracle of the cruse of oil.
The eighth and last day of Hanukkah marks the end of a period in which Jews commemorate the miracle of the cruse of oil.
Jewish Holiday
All
Wed
Wednesday, December 24, 2025
Christmas Eve
Christmas Eve is the day before Christmas Day. It is not a public holiday in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
Christmas Eve is the day before Christmas Day. It is not a public holiday in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
Christian
All
Thu
Thursday, December 25, 2025
Christmas Day
Christmas Day is a holiday that traditionally celebrates Jesus Christ's birth. It is on December 25 in the United Kingdom.
Christmas Day is a holiday that traditionally celebrates Jesus Christ's birth. It is on December 25 in the United Kingdom.
Bank Holiday
All
Fri
Friday, December 26, 2025
Boxing Day
Boxing Day is a holiday in the United Kingdom that falls on December 26 each year.
Boxing Day is a holiday in the United Kingdom that falls on December 26 each year.
Bank Holiday
All
Wed
Wednesday, December 31, 2025
New Year's Eve
New Year's Eve, or Hogmanay in Scotland, is the last day of the year in the Gregorian calendar.
New Year's Eve, or Hogmanay in Scotland, is the last day of the year in the Gregorian calendar.
Observance
All
Understanding United Kingdom Holidays 2025
Holiday Culture in United Kingdom
The UK celebrates a mix of Christian holidays, royal occasions, and uniquely British 'bank holidays.' England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland each have some distinct holidays reflecting their separate identities within the union. The tradition of bank holidays dates to 1871 when banks closing forced businesses to follow.
Major Holidays & Celebrations
Christmas Day & Boxing Day(December 25-26)
Significance: Christmas celebrates Jesus's birth with deep tradition. Boxing Day (Dec 26) historically for giving boxes to servants/tradespeople, now major shopping day and sports viewing (football, horse racing).
Traditions: Christmas crackers (pull apart for paper crown and toy), Christmas pudding set aflame, Queen's/King's Christmas Message at 3 PM, pantomimes, Christmas markets, pub gatherings, and family dinners.
Traditional Foods: Roast turkey or goose, roast potatoes, Brussels sprouts, stuffing, cranberry sauce, Christmas pudding with brandy butter, mince pies, mulled wine, and Quality Street chocolates.
Business Impact: Both days are official holidays - virtually everything closes. Many businesses shut December 24-27. January sales start Boxing Day. Transport limited.
August Bank Holiday(Last Monday in August (England/Wales/NI), First Monday in August (Scotland))
Significance: Peak summer holiday - last long weekend before autumn. No historical or religious significance, purely for leisure. Working class seaside holiday tradition.
Traditions: Beach trips, festivals (Notting Hill Carnival in London, Edinburgh Fringe), camping, pub gardens, barbecues (weather permitting), and family outings.
Traditional Foods: Traditional British barbecue attempts (sausages, burgers), fish and chips by the seaside, ice cream, Pimm's cocktails, and pub fare.
Business Impact: Official bank holiday creating 3-day weekend. Major travel weekend - roads and trains packed. Many take full week off. Some businesses close entire week.
Easter Monday(Varies (Monday after Easter Sunday))
Significance: Christian celebration of resurrection. Good Friday (day Jesus died) is also holiday. Easter Monday is relaxing after Sunday church services. Chocolate egg consumption peaks.
Traditions: Easter egg hunts, hot cross buns on Good Friday, church services, family roasts, giving chocolate eggs, and spring activities. Less religious than Christmas for many.
Traditional Foods: Hot cross buns (spiced buns with cross), roast lamb dinner, Simnel cake (fruitcake with marzipan), and mountains of chocolate Easter eggs.
Business Impact: Good Friday and Easter Monday are bank holidays creating 4-day weekend. Major holiday with everything closed except some tourist attractions.
Early May Bank Holiday(First Monday in May)
Significance: Originally celebrated May Day (May 1st) but moved to Monday. Spring celebration with ancient pagan roots (Beltane) mixed with labor movement history. Now just spring break.
Traditions: Morris dancing (traditional folk), maypole dancing (rare now), pub gardens, outdoor activities, gardening, and enjoying spring weather (hopeful).
Traditional Foods: Not food-specific. Pub lunches, barbecues if weather cooperates, and traditional British roasts.
Business Impact: Bank holiday - government and banks closed. Private businesses vary. Good time for short breaks to countryside or Europe.
Holiday Pattern & Statistics
The UK observes 8 bank holidays in England/Wales, 9 in Scotland, 10 in Northern Ireland. Scotland gets January 2nd off (Hogmanay recovery), Northern Ireland gets St. Patrick's Day and Orangemen's Day. Royal occasions can add extra bank holidays (coronations, jubilees). Compared to continental Europe, UK has relatively few holidays.
Business Travel & Coordination
August is dead - whole country on holiday. December 20-January 3 is skeleton crew time. Easter week is tricky. May and August bank holidays create 3-day weekends. Best business periods: January-March, April-May (avoiding Easter), September-November. British business culture values punctuality and understated professionalism. Queuing (waiting in line) is sacred. Tea breaks are institutional.
Cultural Traditions & Insights
British holiday culture is less commercialized than America but still shopping-focused. Boxing Day sales rival Black Friday. Pub culture is central - bank holidays mean packed pubs. British weather is unreliable - bank holiday barbecues often rained out (running joke). Class consciousness affects holiday habits - working class traditionally visit Blackpool/Brighton, middle class go to Cotswolds/Cornwall, upper class have country estates. Royal family events unite nation - Jubilee street parties, royal weddings. Football (soccer) fixtures continue through holidays.
Timezone Coordination Tips
UK uses GMT (UTC+0) in winter, BST (UTC+1) in summer. This means UK is 5 hours ahead of US Eastern in winter, 5-6 hours depending on DST transition misalignment (few weeks yearly). Business hours 9-5:30 typically. London financial sector starts early (7:30 AM). Lunch is 12-1 PM, shorter than continental Europe. After-work pub culture strong - business often conducted over pints. When coordinating with US, morning UK time works for late evening US East Coast.
Why Check United Kingdom Public Holidays?
Plan business meetings and avoid scheduling conflicts during bank closures
Coordinate with remote teams and international colleagues across time zones
Book travel and accommodations around peak holiday periods for better rates
Respect cultural and religious observances important to local communities
Optimize project timelines and deadlines accounting for reduced business days
Anticipate supply chain and logistics disruptions during major holidays
Frequently Asked Questions
Stay Perfectly Synchronized
Our holiday calendar for United Kingdom is regularly updated to ensure accuracy. Use this information alongside our United Kingdom timezone tools and meeting planner to coordinate seamlessly with United Kingdom and stay perfectly synchronized with local schedules.