2025 UK Calendar - Full List of Public Holidays And Observances: Dates and Celebrations

As we approach the year 2025, it's essential to stay informed about the upcoming public holidays and observances in the United Kingdom. The UK has several public holidays throughout the year, with some varying by country (England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland).

The United Kingdom, being a Christian nation, has also embraced the entirety of the Easter and Christmas holidays. Some of these days, like Whitsun, Ascension Day, and All Saints' Day, are not public holidays, in contrast to those in some other nations. Britain is unique in that it has bank holidays in May and August, which date back to 1871.

UK Calendar for Year 2025 with Holidays and Observances

Tradition of Public Holidays/Bank Holidays in the UK

Public Holidays in the UK

Some non-British people find out about their bank holidays when it comes to British public holidays. The British "Bank Holidays Act" of 1871, which established the first times when banks could close on days other than regularly scheduled public holidays, is where they got their start. These were originally observed on Easter Monday, Whit Monday, and Boxing Day. A Monday known as the "Summer Bank Holiday" was also observed in August. The "Banking and Financial Dealings Act" is the new name for the original legislation, but the bank holidays have essentially stayed the same or have evolved into public holidays over time.

From a purely substantive standpoint, a bank holiday is simply a day off for financial institutions on which there is no other workfree day provided by the legislator. This is also present in several other nations, though it is not recognized as such. The TARGET2 gateway network establishes the days on which no transfers are made within the EU and even outside of it.

For instance, Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve fall on a bank holiday in many other nations. These are not public holidays, but neither are banks open. Other industries frequently adhere to this rite.

On the other hand, using the name from the Bank Holidays Act rather than the standard name is fairly common in the United Kingdom. For instance, in this case, "May Day" frequently turns into the "Early May Bank Holiday". There are only two days that are truly extra bank holidays:

• Spring Bank Holiday

First Monday in May

• Summer Bank Holiday

First Monday in August in Scotland and last Monday in May in England and Wales. This day is also known regionally as the August Bank Holiday, but it is the same.

Full List of U.K 2024 Bank Holiday Dates

How Many Public Holidays/Bank Holidays Are There in the UK?

In England and Wales, there are eight days designated as bank holidays in a typical calendar year, which many people take as days off from work. The bank holidays that are observed in Scotland and Northern Ireland are not observed in England or Wales.

If a public holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the holiday is normally postponed to the following week day, which is then referred to as a “substitute public holiday” or an “observed holiday”.

Bank holidays in England and Wales 2025:

UK Bank Holidays in 2025

Most Popular Holidays and Observances in the UK 2025

1 Jan New Year's Day

2 Jan 2nd January (Scotland)

5 Jan Twelfth Night

14 Feb Valentine's Day

1 Mar St. David's Day (Wales)

4 Mar Carnival / Shrove Tuesday / Pancake Day

17 Mar St Patrick's Day (Northern Ireland)

30 Mar Mother's Day

18 Apr Good Friday

20 Apr Easter Sunday

21 Apr Easter Monday (ENG, NIR, WAL)

23 Apr St. George's Day

5 May Early May Bank Holiday

26 May Spring Bank Holiday

15 Jun Father's Day

21 Jun King's Birthday

12 Jul Battle of the Boyne (Northern Ireland)

14 Jul 'Battle of the Boyne' observed (Northern Ireland)

4 Aug Summer Bank Holiday (Scotland)

25 Aug Summer Bank Holiday (ENG, NIR, WAL)

31 Oct Halloween

5 Nov Guy Fawkes Day

9 Nov Remembrance Sunday

30 Nov St Andrew's Day (Scotland)

1 Dec 'St Andrew's Day' observed (Scotland)

24 Dec Christmas Eve

25 Dec Christmas Day

26 Dec Boxing Day

31 Dec New Year's Eve

Public Holidays 2025 in England and Wales

Date	Public holiday
01.01.2025 Wednesday	New Year's Day
18.04.2025 Friday	Good Friday
21.04.2025 Monday	Easter Monday
05.05.2025 Monday	Early May Bank Holiday
26.05.2025 Monday	Spring Bank Holiday
04.08.2025 Monday	Summer Bank Holiday
27.10.2025 Monday	October Holiday
25.12.2025 Thursday	Christmas
26.12.2025 Friday	Boxing Day

Public Holidays Northern Ireland in 2025

New Year’s Day – Wednesday 1st January

St Patrick’s Day – Monday 17th March

Good Friday – Friday 18th April

Easter Monday – Monday 21st April

Early May Bank Holiday – Monday 5th May

Spring Bank Holiday – Monday 26th May

Battle of the Boyne (Orangemen’s Day) – Monday 14th July (substitute day)

Summer Bank Holiday – Monday 25th August

Christmas Day – Thursday 25th December

Boxing Day – Friday 26th December

Public Holidays Scotland in 2025

Most of the time, bank and public holidays in Scotland are set at the local level. Local holidays can be used instead of national and country-level holidays, and there are more local holidays all year long.

New Year’s Day – Wednesday 1st January

2nd January Bank Holiday – Thursday 2nd January

Good Friday – Friday 18th April

Early May Bank Holiday – Monday 5th May

Spring Bank Holiday – Monday 26th May

Summer Bank Holiday – Monday 25th August

St Andrew’s Day – Monday 1st December (substitute day)

Christmas Day – Thursday 25th December

Boxing Day – Friday 26th December

National/Regional Public Holidays in the UK 2025: Date and Celebrations

New Year's Day - Wednesday, 1 January

New Year's Day

New Year's Day marks the beginning of the new calendar year and is a public holiday across the entire United Kingdom. The celebrations often start on New Year's Eve (31 December) with parties, fireworks, and countdowns to midnight. In London, the official New Year's Eve fireworks display by the River Thames is a significant event, drawing large crowds and broadcasted live on television.

On New Year's Day itself, many people spend time with family and friends, often recovering from the previous night's festivities. Traditional meals and gatherings are common. Another notable event is the New Year’s Day Parade in London, featuring performers, floats, and bands from around the world. It is a festive start to the year and attracts thousands of spectators.

Day after New Year's Day - Thursday, 2 January (Scotland)

According to the Gregorian calendar, the second day of the year is the day after New Year's Day. January 2nd may be an additional New Year's holiday in some countries. Only Scotland observes this extra day off for New Year's in the United Kingdom.

Read More: Top 100 Meaningful New Year Wishes & Quotes For Parents

St. David's Day - Sat, March 1 (Wales)

St David's Day, the National Day of Wales, is always celebrated on March 1st, the customary date of his 589 AD death.

The people of Wales have continued to support St. David's Day, which was declared a public holiday by the National Assembly for Wales in 2000, with a unanimous vote. Despite this, the British Government has opposed every attempt to date to declare St. David's Day a bank holiday. Since Wales has not received the same powers as the other Celtic nations from successive UK governments, the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971 has needed to be modified.

St. Patrick's Day (Northern Ireland) - Monday, 17 March

St. Patrick's Day

St. Patrick’s Day celebrates the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick, who is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland. Although it is a public holiday only in Northern Ireland, it is celebrated widely across the UK and the world. Parades, donning of green clothing or accessories, and the display of shamrocks all serve to commemorate the day.

In Northern Ireland, the celebrations include large parades in cities like Belfast and Armagh, featuring music, dance, and cultural displays. People often attend church services, as St. Patrick's Day is a religious feast day. Pubs and bars are typically busy, with many serving traditional Irish food and drink, including Irish stew and Guinness.

Learn more: St Patrick’s Day (March 17): History, Meaning, Celebration, Food And Jokes

Mother's Day - Sunday, March 30

On the fourth Sunday of Lent, which is also Mother's Day, there is a parade. This holiday always takes place in the second half of March or early April, three weeks before Easter Sunday.

In the UK, Mother's Day is not a bank holiday. On Sundays, public transportation runs at its normal times. On Mother's Day, many people take their moms out to a fancy meal, so cafes, restaurants, and hotels may be full a long time before the day comes. If you want to eat out on Mother's Day, you might need to book a table ahead of time.

Monday is Mother's Day, also known as Mothering Sunday. It is a time to honor mothers and other mother figures, like grandmothers, stepmothers, and mothers-in-law. A lot of people go out of their way to see their mother. They send her cards and gifts and might take her to a cafe, restaurant, or hotel for brunch, lunch, or high tea. When people can't go see their mom, they often send her cards or gifts.

Giving cards and gifts to moms is a big part of Mother's Day. For Mother's Day, people often give cakes, flowers, chocolates, jewelry, and expensive clothes. Some people don't give their mom or grandma a physical gift. Instead, they treat them to a fancy meal, a spa day, or a fun activity.

Many stores sell Mother's Day cakes that have been decorated just for the occasion. An awful lot of schools, Sunday schools, and children's groups help their kids make a card or gift for their mom in the days and weeks before Mother's Day.

Mother's Day: Best Wishes, Quotes and Sweet Messages

Good Friday - Friday, 18 April

Good Friday is a significant Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary. It is a public holiday across the UK, and many businesses and schools are closed. Religious observances such as church services, processions, and reflections on the Passion of Christ mark the day.

Many Christians attend special Good Friday services, which often include readings from the Gospel, hymns, and prayers. In some areas, there are processions reenacting the Stations of the Cross. Traditional foods associated with Good Friday include hot cross buns, which are spiced sweet buns with a cross on top, symbolizing the crucifixion.

Easter Monday - Monday, 21 April

Easter Monday is the day after Easter Sunday, which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a public holiday across the UK, providing an extended break for many people. This day is often seen as a continuation of Easter celebrations, with various events and activities for families and communities.

Traditional activities on Easter Monday include Easter egg hunts, where children search for hidden chocolate eggs. Many people also spend time outdoors, taking advantage of the spring weather. In some regions, there are local fairs, sports events, and charity runs. For many, it is a day for relaxation and enjoying time with family.

Easter Day: History, Significance, Celebrations and Facts On April 12, Christians will be celebrating Easter, the day on which the resurrection of Jesus is said to have taken place. This article of ...

Early May Bank Holiday - Monday, 5 May

Early May Bank Holiday

The Early May Bank Holiday, also known as May Day, celebrates the arrival of spring and has roots in ancient traditions. It is a public holiday across the UK, and various events are held to mark the occasion. Historically, May Day was a pagan festival celebrating fertility and the start of the growing season.

Modern celebrations often include Maypole dancing, where people dance around a tall pole decorated with ribbons. In some towns and villages, there are also Morris dancing performances, which are traditional English folk dances. Many communities hold fairs and festivals with live music, food stalls, and other entertainment.

Spring Bank Holiday - Monday, 26 May

The Spring Bank Holiday is a public holiday observed on the last Monday of May, providing a long weekend for many people. It was originally known as Whit Monday, the day after Pentecost, but was moved to a fixed date in 1971.

Due to the typically mild and pleasant weather, outdoor activities are frequently associated with the Spring Bank Holiday. People often take short trips or go on picnics, and many local events and festivals are organized. It is also a popular time for sporting events, including horse racing and cricket matches. For many, it is simply a time to relax and enjoy the late spring atmosphere.

Father's Day - Sunday, 15 June

Happy Father's Day

In the UK, Father's Day is on the third Sunday of June. Today is a day to honor dads and dad figures like grandfathers and dads-in-law. A lot of people go out of their way to visit their dads or send them cards and gifts.

Sunday, June 17 is not a bank holiday. On the outside, it's just another Sunday. The schedules for public transportation are always followed. These places might be busy because lots of dads are going out to eat to celebrate.

A lot of people go out of their way to see their dad on Father's Day. A lot of the time, they get or send gifts and cards. People often give ties, socks, underwear, sweaters, slippers, and other clothing items for Father's Day. Others give tools for gardening or chores around the house, as well as fancy foods or drinks.

A lot of gifts for Dad say things like "The World's Best Dad," "For My Father," or just "Dad." Companies that process photos are now offering more print-on-demand services, which has made personalized Father's Day gifts even more popular. Desk calendars, mugs, T-shirts, mouse mats, bags, and even ties can be made with pictures of kids on them. Many dads are told to bring these to work with them to keep them thinking about their families while they're away.

Top 20 Best and Most Popular Poems For Father's Day

Corpus Christi, 19 June

Mass is held on Corpus Christi to honor the Holy Eucharist by many Christians in the UK, especially Roman Catholics. It's also called the Day of Wreaths and the Feast of the Most Holy Body of Christ.

In the UK, Corpus Christi is not a bank holiday.

While Corpus Christi is mostly celebrated in Roman Catholic churches, it is also seen in some Anglican churches in the UK. There are a lot of Christians who receive Communion on this day, especially Catholics.

During Corpus Christi, some people, mostly kids, receive their first Communion. People take holy bread and wine (or grape juice), which Christians believe are Jesus Christ's body and blood, in this practice, which is also called the Eucharist. Some churches may celebrate Corpus Christi on the Sunday after Trinity Sunday, but most of the time it is on the Thursday after Trinity Sunday.

Corpus Christi has been a holiday in the town of Arundel in southeast England for more than one hundred years. As part of the celebrations, there is a festival of flowers with a carpet of flowers in the middle aisle of the Cathedral. Most of the time, anyone can visit the flowers. A mass and a procession of the Blessed Sacrament from the cathedral to the castle of the town are also part of the festival.

King's Birthday, 21 June

Royal Birthday of King Charles III is celebrated in the UK on the third Saturday in June. Queen Elizabeth II, who came before him, had a birthday on a different day.

Saturday, June 21, 2025, is King's Birthday, but it is also a work day. In the United Kingdom, most businesses have set hours.

People in the UK have celebrated the current monarch's birthday in June for many years, but King's Birthday as we know it today didn't start until 2023.

The official birthday of King Charles III will be celebrated on the third Saturday in June every year, as announced by the British government in December 2022.

Before she died in 2022, his predecessor, Queen Elizabeth II, had an official birthday on the second Saturday in June.

June Solstice (21 June): Shortest and Longest Day of the Year

Each year, there are two solstices, one in June and one in December. The longest day is in June north of the equator and the shortest day is in June south of it.

To be in the Northern Hemisphere, the Sun must be directly above the Tropic of Cancer on June 21. It gets as far north as this latitude during the year. It starts moving south again after the solstice.

Windrush Day (22 June)

People in the UK honor the British Caribbean community on June 22 every year with Windrush Day. The holiday was first celebrated in 2018.

A lot of different events happen all over the country on Windrush Day, but it's not a UK bank holiday.

Britain was in desperate need of workers after the end of World War II. Because of this, a campaign was started to get people from the British Empire and the Commonwealth to move to the UK.

The first people to come to the UK from the Caribbean came on the ship HMT Empire Windrush, which docked at Tilbury Docks, just east of London, on June 22, 1948. The name of the ship led to the term "Windrush Generation," which was used to describe the large group of Caribbean immigrants who came to the UK in the years that followed.

Muharram/Islamic New Year (27 June)

Muharram/Islamic New Year in the UK: For Muslims the first day of Muharram is a day to pray and reflect on one's life.

The first day of Muharram, the first month on the Islamic calendar, is the Islamic New Year.

Muslims use a lunar calendar that is not the same length as the Gregorian calendar that everyone else uses. This means that the Muslim holidays happen about 11 days earlier each year than they do on the Gregorian calendar.

Many Muslims in the UK celebrate Muharram, but there are no bank holidays on this day. On the other hand, because Muslim holidays are moved around every year, Muharram may happen on other UK bank holidays.

On this day, some businesses owned by Muslims may be closed or have shorter hours. This is because most schools in the UK don't let their students skip school on Muharram.

Most Muslims believe that Muharram is the holiest month of the year, even holier than Ramadan. On the first day of Muharram, many Muslims in the UK pray and think about their lives. People usually don't pay much attention to the first day of Muharram, though, because it's not a very big deal.

Ashura (Sun, 6 Jul 2025, Tentative Date)

It is Ashura on the tenth day of Muharram, which is the first month in the Islamic calendar.

Muslims use a lunar calendar that is not the same length as the Gregorian calendar that everyone else uses. This means that the Muslim holidays happen about 11 days earlier each year than they do on the Gregorian calendar.

Even though Ashura is a significant holiday, especially for Shia Muslims, there are no UK bank holidays on this day. But because Muslim holidays change every year based on Gregorian dates, Ashura can happen on UK bank holidays that are already in place.

Shia Muslims may hold processions or protests in some UK cities on Ashura, which means that some streets may be closed to traffic for a short time. On this day, some businesses owned by Muslims may be closed or have shorter hours.

Ashura is a day of fasting and prayer for Sunni Muslims, who make up most of the Muslim population in the UK.

However, Shia Muslims have a lot more people who know about their Ashura traditions. Shiites hold processions that traditionally include rituals of self-flagellation to remember the death of Husayn ibn Ali, who was the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad.

As a sign of grief and devotion, this tradition is often violent and bloody in some parts of the world. People often beat themselves with chains, swords, or other blades. Many Shia leaders have spoken out against this, though, and it's almost never done in the UK. In this place, people may chant loudly and beat their chests during Ashura processions.

Shia Muslims in the UK have also held peaceful Ashura protests in the past, for example to speak out against racism and Islamic terrorism. Some Muslims also give blood on this day, which is in line with the tradition of letting blood flow on Ashura.

Battle of the Boyne (Orangemen's Day) (Northern Ireland) - Saturday, 12 July

Geared up in a black suit and bowler hat for a march to remember the Battle of the Boyne

Orangemen's Day, also known as the Twelfth or the Glorious Twelfth, commemorates the Battle of the Boyne in 1690, where Protestant King William of Orange defeated Catholic King James II. It is a significant public holiday in Northern Ireland, marked by parades, bonfires, and various cultural events organized by the Orange Order.

On this day, thousands of members of the Orange Order, dressed in their distinctive orange sashes, participate in parades accompanied by marching bands. The largest parades are held in Belfast, with participants walking through the city, often stopping at key points to lay wreaths or make speeches. Bonfires are lit on the night of 11 July, symbolizing the lighting of beacons to guide King William's ships. The day is a celebration of Protestant and Unionist culture but can also be a time of heightened tensions, requiring significant police presence to ensure peace.

Tisha B'Av (Jewish Holiday, Sun, 3 Aug 2025)

For Jews, Tisha B'Av is on the ninth day of Av, which is the fifth month of the year. Based on the Gregorian calendar, the date is in July or August. If Tisha B'Av falls on a Shabbat (Saturday), it is moved to Sunday, the 10th of Av.

In the UK, Tisha B'Av is not a public holiday. Some Jewish groups, on the other hand, may be closed or have limited hours.

Jewish people all over the world, including those in the UK, are expected to follow a list of rules on Tisha B'Av.

Summer Bank Holiday (Scotland) - Monday, 4 August

Summer Bank Holiday

The Summer Bank Holiday in Scotland is a public holiday providing an opportunity for residents to enjoy the warm weather and participate in various outdoor activities. Many people take advantage of the long weekend to go on holiday, attend local festivals, or enjoy outdoor events.

Popular activities include hiking, picnics, and visits to Scotland’s beautiful lochs and national parks. The holiday is also a time for local fairs and cultural festivals, showcasing traditional Scottish music, dance, and crafts. For many, it is a time to relax and enjoy the company of family and friends in the pleasant summer weather.

Summer Bank Holiday (England, Wales, and Northern Ireland) - Monday, 25 August

The Summer Bank Holiday in these regions marks the unofficial end of summer, providing a final long weekend before the autumn season begins. It is a public holiday widely enjoyed with various events and leisure activities.

Many people take short trips or participate in outdoor activities such as barbecues, beach outings, and countryside walks. In cities, numerous festivals and fairs take place, offering live music, food stalls, and entertainment for all ages. It is also a busy time for tourism, with popular destinations seeing an influx of visitors making the most of the holiday.

Assumption of Mary (Fri, 15 Aug 2025)

Assumption Day marks the Virgin Mary's assumption into heaven after her death on August 15

The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a feast day. It is also called Assumption Day and the Dormition of the Virgin Mary. People who are Christian believe that it is the day that God took the Virgin Mary to heaven after she died. In the United Kingdom (UK), some Christian groups celebrate it every year on or around August 15.

Our Lady of the Assumption, also known as the feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos, is not a UK public holiday. Businesses that are owned by strict Christians might be closed or have limited hours. In addition, a lot of people in the UK like to take vacations in the middle of August. There is less noise in some cities and towns than usual, but resorts and tourist spots are likely to be very busy. It's especially important to do this when it's sunny and hot outside.

During the first fifteen days of August, some Christians fast or don't eat certain foods. During this time, they may also go to special church services or say special prayers every day. For them, this is a time to get ready spiritually for the feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary or the Dormition of the Theotokos. People with family ties to places near the Mediterranean Sea, like Greece, may go out of their way to visit their ancestral villages or towns during this time.

On August 15, some Christians who follow the rules go to special church services or say extra prayers. Most of all, this is true for Catholics and Orthodox Christians. They may also eat or not eat certain kinds of food.

Janmashtami/Smarta (Hindu Holiday, 15-16 Aug 2025)

Krishna is the eight incarnation of the god Vishnu

Krishna Janmashtami, also known as Srikrishna Jayanti, Sree Jayanthi, Astami Rohini, Gokulashtami, Krishnaashtami, and Gokulashtami, is one of the most important Hindu holidays. It marks the birth of Krishna, who is the eighth incarnation of the god Vishnu. Today is the eighth day of the Hindu month of Bhadrava, which falls in August or September most of the time.

Milad un Nabi (Mawlid) - Fri, 5 Sep 2025 (Tentative Date)

People celebrate the life of the prophet Muhammad on Milad un Nabi, which is also known as Mawlid, Eid Milad ul-Nabi, or just "the Prophet's Birthday." It's only done by some Muslims.

If you live in the UK and Milad un Nabi falls on the 12th or 17th of Rabī‘ al-awwal, there are no bank holidays for it. It can happen on other UK bank holidays, though, because the Gregorian date of Muslim holidays changes every year.

On Milad un Nabi, Muslims hold processions in some British cities, which means that some roads may be closed for a short time. Because mosques are likely to be busy, traffic may get backed up. On Milad un Nabi, a lot of Muslim businesses are closed.

In the UK, the most well-known Milad un Nabi tradition is the processions that happen in some cities. During these, religious leaders usually give speeches about Muhammad's life. There are times when these events are very happy, but in some Muslim communities, they can also be more somber because they believe that today is both the birth and death of Muhammad.

Parents who are Muslim may talk to their kids about Muhammad's life and work, focusing on what he taught and how important he is as the founder of the Islamic faith. In some places, events are planned for kids where stories about Muhammad are told.

Milad un Nabi feasts are held by some families in the UK, while others fast during the day. On this day, people often say special prayers, greetings, poems, or songs to honor Muhammad. Some Muslims also give to charity on Milad un Nabi.

These events may last for a week or even the whole month of Rabī‘ al-awwal in some places.

Rosh Hashana (Jewish Holiday, Tue, 23 Sep 2025)

For Jews, Rosh Hashanah is the first day of Tishrei, which is the seventh month of the year. According to the Gregorian calendar, the event takes place in September or October.

Jews in Israel only celebrate the holiday for one day, but Jews in other countries, like the UK, usually celebrate it for two days.

Even though Rosh Hashanah is a big holiday for Jews, it's not a public holiday in the UK. Jewish groups, on the other hand, might be closed or have limited hours.

Yom Kippur (Jewish Holiday, Thu, 2 Oct 2025)

The Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur falls on the 10th day of Tishrei, which is the seventh month of the year. According to the Gregorian calendar, the event takes place in September or October.

In the UK, Yom Kippur is not a bank holiday. A lot of Jewish businesses, groups, and schools may be closed, though, and the streets around synagogues may be busy.

On Yom Kippur, people should confess their sins and make amends. People who are Jewish in the UK and around the world fast, pray, and rest on Yom Kippur because the Book of Leviticus tells them to "inflict your souls." Also, people usually don't use perfume, lotions, or creams, wash their hands, or wear leather shoes. From sunset on the day before Yom Kippur until nightfall on Yom Kippur, people fast and pray during this time. After that, there is a happy meal.

Feast of St Francis of Assisi (Sat, 4 Oct 2025)

In the UK, the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi is not a bank holiday.

In the UK, certain church services are held on the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi to bless pets. There have been times when churches in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland blessed all kinds of pets, like dogs, cats, hamsters, rabbits, and even a tortoise that was 100 years old.

To honor the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, some churches hold special events or celebrations. It's possible that some classical radio stations will play songs about the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi today.

Diwali/Deepavali (Hindu Holiday, Tue, 21 Oct 2025)

In the UK, Diwali is not a bank holiday, but many cities and towns, including Belfast, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Leicester, and London, celebrate it. In places where Diwali events are held, there may be a lot of traffic and parking spots may be full. On Diwali, some Indian stores may close early.

During Diwali, also known as the "Festival of Lights," people in the UK do a lot of different things. It's time to clean up around Diwali, which is like spring cleaning. Many homes that celebrate Diwali have a variety of sweets, savory foods, and herbs used in the holiday. Inside and outside of homes, different kinds of lights, candles, and sparklers are lit.

For Diwali, many people dress in their best clothes. A lot of women are wearing jewelry and silk clothes, and some have mehendi on their palms, which is a temporary henna design. Some Indian businesses use Diwali to start the new fiscal year. This is because Diwali is linked to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.

In many cities across the UK, people celebrate Diwali with dances, plays, fireworks, street lighting, Diwali lanterns, music, and traditional Indian food. Public greetings are sent by Hindu council representatives, Indian association spokespeople, and political leaders to everyone planning and taking part in Diwali celebrations.

Halloween (Fri, 31 Oct 2025)

Halloween is a holiday that is celebrated every year on October 31. A lot of people have Halloween parties on or around this date. At these parties, people dress up as ghosts, skeletons, and other scary characters. Pumpkins, bats, and spiders are all common Halloween symbols.

The first Halloweens were based on pagan celebrations that took place in England, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland at the end of October. Some people thought that the dead could come "alive" and walk among the living at this time of year. They thought it was important to wear costumes when going outside so that the spirits wouldn't hurt them. This could be where the costumes we wear today got their start. In the time of the Puritans, Halloween celebrations were illegal, but they came back in later times.

Top 10 Most Haunted and Ghostly Places in Europe

All Saints' Day (Sat, 1 Nov 2025)

All Saints' Day is dedicated to the Christian saints

In the UK, All Saints' Day is not a bank holiday.

Every year on All Saints' Day, people remember the Christians who died for their faith and were called saints or martyrs. On this feast day, some people go to service at church. The day before or on All Saints' Day, some Christian schools may have activities for the kids. The theme of these activities is the lives of different saints and what role they played in the history of Christianity.

Guy Fawkes Day (Wed, 5 Nov 2025)

Guy Fawkes' Day is not a holiday in the UK. All schools, businesses, and other groups are open as usual. Public transportation services run on time every time. Public bonfires or fireworks shows may be planned by some groups, communities, and cities on or around November 5.

A lot of people light fires and pop fireworks. Now that autumn is almost over, it's a great time to burn garden waste. Some people start small fires in their own gardens, while others do it in a public area. In some cities and towns, the government sets up a park with a bonfire and a professional fireworks show. A lot of people like these. Many people have parties for both Guy Fawkes Night and Halloween because they are so close to each other. A bonfire and dressing up in scary clothes are common parts of these parties that come from both festivals. Toffee apples, bonfire toffee, and potatoes baked in the ashes of the fire are all popular foods. Guy Fawkes, a Catholic, was caught in the plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament and was tortured and killed for his part in it. Because of this, many Catholics don't celebrate this day as much as they used to.

Remembrance Sunday (Sun, 9 Nov 2025)

In the UK, Remembrance Day is a time to remember the bravery, accomplishments, and deaths that happened in past wars. November 9 is also a day of silence, but the main event is on the second Sunday of the month.

First Sunday of Advent (Sun, 30 Nov 2025)

The Sunday before St. Andrew's Day is the first Sunday in Advent. The liturgical year, or church year, begins on this day. For many people in the UK, it's the start of the Christmas season.

For some Christians, the first Sunday of Advent is a special time to go to church. Some churches also have a service with a Christingle for kids and their families. At a Christingle service, a Christingle is given to or carried by every child. People in the church raise money for the Children's Society so that they can help kids who are victims of abuse, neglect, or poverty.

For many, the first Sunday of Advent is when they put up their Christmas decorations in their homes, schools, and places of work. Some people send or write Christmas cards to friends and family. On this day, some people bake a Christmas cake or cook a Christmas pudding.

This week, ceremonies are held to turn on the Christmas lights in town centers, shopping malls, and public spaces with big Christmas trees. A Christmas tree is put up every year in Trafalgar Square in London as a gift from the Norwegian people to thank the UK for its help during World War II.

Learn more: St. Andrew's Day: Who is, History, Celebration

St. Andrew's Day (Scotland) - Sunday, 30 November

St. Andrew's Day celebrates Scotland's patron saint, St. Andrew, and is a public holiday in Scotland. It is a day of national pride, marked by various cultural and social events showcasing Scottish heritage.

Celebrations include traditional Scottish music and dance, such as ceilidhs, as well as special church services and feasts featuring Scottish cuisine. Public buildings and landmarks are often illuminated in blue, the color of the Scottish flag. Many towns and cities host events, and it is a time for Scots to reflect on their history and culture.

First Day of Hanukkah (Mon, 15 Dec 2025)

Family celebrating Hanukkah

The 25th day of Kislev, the 9th month on the Jewish calendar, is the start of Hanukkah. In the Gregorian calendar, the date is in either November or December.

In the UK, the first day of Hanukkah is not a holiday. Some Jewish stores might be closed or have different hours. Jewish kids who go to public schools can ask to be excused from school to celebrate this holiday.

The hanukkiah, a 9-branched menorah or candelabrum, is one of the most important symbols. It can be put in a home, a synagogue, or a public place like London's Trafalgar Square.

The first candle is lit in a ceremony the night before the first day of Hanukkah. Songs and prayers are often said at this time. On the eighth night, a new candle is lit, and so on, until the last day of Hanukkah, all eight candles are lit. During the celebration, the middle candle, which is called the "shamash," is used to light the other candles.

Once a year, the Speaker of the House of Commons lights a hanukkiah in his or her home in the UK. Every year, on or around the first day of Hanukkah, the Prime Minister sends out a message about the holiday.

Happy Hanukkah: Best wishes and quotes Hanukkah is going to come! In case you are planning to send a card to your loves ones on Hanukkah, the wishes and quotes given ...

Christmas Day - Thursday, 25 December

Christmas Day

Christmas Day is a major public holiday in the UK, celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a time for family gatherings, festive meals, and the exchange of gifts. The holiday season begins in late November or early December, with decorations, Christmas markets, and special events leading up to the big day.

On Christmas Day, many people attend church services in the morning. The main meal, typically eaten in the afternoon, includes roast turkey, stuffing, vegetables, and Christmas pudding for dessert. It is a day filled with joy, with families coming together to celebrate and enjoy each other's company.

Last day of Hanukkah (Thu, 2 Jan 2025Mon, 22 Dec 2025)

Hanukkah starts on the 25th day of Kislev, which is the ninth month in the Jewish calendar, and ends eight days later. Kislev can have either 29 or 30 days, so the eighth day of Hanukkah will either be on the 2nd or 3rd of the following month, Tevet. The last day of Hanukkah always falls in December or January on the Gregorian calendar.

While Jewish people celebrate Hanukkah with great joy, there are no official bank holidays in the UK during this time. But the eighth day of Hanukkah can fall on a UK bank holiday, like Christmas Day, Boxing Day, or New Year's Day.

Jewish stores may be closed or have different hours during the Hanukkah season. Jewish kids who go to public schools can ask to be excused from school to celebrate this holiday.

Boxing Day - Friday, 26 December

Boxing Day, the day after Christmas, is a public holiday in the UK. Traditionally, it was a day when servants and tradespeople received gifts from their employers, known as "Christmas boxes." Today, it is associated with various activities, including sports and shopping.

Many people spend Boxing Day attending sporting events, such as football matches and horse racing. It is also a significant day for retail, with stores offering sales and discounts, leading to busy shopping centers. Additionally, families and friends often gather for relaxed meals and leftover Christmas food, extending the festive celebrations.

New Year's Eve 2025 (Wed, 31 Dec 2025)

There is no holiday on December 31. The Christmas break, on the other hand, means that schools are closed and many people have the day off or leave early. Most stores and post offices are open, but some may close earlier than usual. While public transportation may run as usual, service may be cut back or even stop altogether in the late afternoon or evening.

In some big cities, public transportation starts running again around midnight so that people who are going to big events can safely get home. Pubs, clubs, and discos may only let people in if they are invited or have a ticket that has already been booked. Bus and train stations may be crowded with young people going to spend New Year's Eve and Day with friends.

100 Captivating New Year Wishes & Quotes for Children

Full List of Public Holidays And Observances in the UK 2025

Boxing Day

Date	Name	Type	Details
				1 Jan	Wednesday	New Year's Day	Bank Holiday
2 Jan	Thursday	Last day of Hanukkah	Jewish Holiday
2 Jan	Thursday	2nd January	Local Bank Holiday	Scotland
5 Jan	Sunday	Twelfth Night	Observance, Christian
6 Jan	Monday	Epiphany	Observance, Christian
7 Jan	Tuesday	Orthodox Christmas Day	Observance, Orthodox
14 Jan	Tuesday	Orthodox New Year	Observance, Orthodox
25 Jan	Saturday	Burns Night	Local Observance	Scotland
27 Jan	Monday	Isra and Mi'raj	Muslim
29 Jan	Wednesday	Lunar New Year	Observance
13 Feb	Thursday	Tu B'Shevat (Arbor Day)	Jewish Holiday
14 Feb	Friday	Valentine's Day	Observance
26 Feb	Wednesday	Maha Shivaratri	Hindu Holiday
1 Mar	Saturday	Ramadan Start (Tentative Date)	Muslim
1 Mar	Saturday	St. David's Day	Local Observance	Wales
4 Mar	Tuesday	Carnival / Shrove Tuesday / Pancake Day	Observance, Christian
5 Mar	Wednesday	Carnival / Ash Wednesday	Observance, Christian
14 Mar	Friday	Purim	Jewish Holiday
17 Mar	Monday	St Patrick's Day	Local Bank Holiday	NIR
26 Mar	Wednesday	Laylatul Qadr (Night of Power)	Muslim
30 Mar	Sunday	Mother's Day	Observance
31 Mar	Monday	Eid ul Fitr (Tentative Date)	Muslim
13 Apr	Sunday	Palm Sunday	Observance, Christian
13 Apr	Sunday	First day of Passover	Jewish Holiday
17 Apr	Thursday	Maundy Thursday	Observance, Christian
18 Apr	Friday	Orthodox Good Friday	Observance, Orthodox
18 Apr	Friday	Good Friday	Bank Holiday
19 Apr	Saturday	Holy Saturday	Observance, Christian
19 Apr	Saturday	Orthodox Holy Saturday	Observance, Orthodox
20 Apr	Sunday	Last day of Passover	Jewish Holiday
20 Apr	Sunday	Orthodox Easter	Observance, Orthodox
20 Apr	Sunday	Easter Sunday	Observance, Christian
21 Apr	Monday	Orthodox Easter Monday	Observance, Orthodox
21 Apr	Monday	Easter Monday	Common Local Holiday	ENG, NIR, WAL
21 Apr	Monday	Easter Monday	Local Observance	Scotland
22 Apr	Tuesday	Stephen Lawrence Day	Observance
23 Apr	Wednesday	St. George's Day	Local Observance
23 Apr	Wednesday	Shakespeare Day	Observance
25 Apr	Friday	Yom HaShoah	Jewish Commemoration
28 Apr	Monday	St. George's Day	Observance, Christian
1 May	Thursday	Yom HaAtzmaut	Jewish Holiday
5 May	Monday	Early May Bank Holiday	Bank Holiday
16 May	Friday	Lag B'Omer	Jewish Holiday
26 May	Monday	Spring Bank Holiday	Bank Holiday
29 May	Thursday	Ascension Day	Observance, Christian
2 Jun	Monday	Shavuot	Jewish Holiday
7 Jun	Saturday	Eid al-Adha (Tentative Date)	Muslim
8 Jun	Sunday	Pentecost	Observance, Christian
9 Jun	Monday	Whit Monday	Observance, Christian
15 Jun	Sunday	Trinity Sunday	Observance, Christian
15 Jun	Sunday	Father's Day	Observance
19 Jun	Thursday	Corpus Christi	Observance, Christian
21 Jun	Saturday	King's Birthday	Observance
22 Jun	Sunday	Windrush Day	Observance
27 Jun	Friday	Muharram/Islamic New Year (Tentative Date)	Muslim
6 Jul	Sunday	Ashura (Tentative Date)	Muslim
12 Jul	Saturday	Battle of the Boyne	Local Bank Holiday	NIR
14 Jul	Monday	Battle of the Boyne observed	Local Bank Holiday	NIR
3 Aug	Sunday	Tisha B'Av	Jewish Holiday
4 Aug	Monday	Summer Bank Holiday	Common Local Holiday	Scotland
15 Aug	Friday	Assumption of Mary	Observance, Christian
15 Aug	Friday	Janmashtami (Smarta)	Hindu Holiday
16 Aug	Saturday	Janmashtami	Hindu Holiday
25 Aug	Monday	Summer Bank Holiday	Common Local Holiday	ENG, NIR, WAL
26 Aug	Tuesday	Ganesh Chaturthi	Hindu Holiday
5 Sep	Friday	Milad un Nabi (Mawlid) (Tentative Date)	Muslim
23 Sep	Tuesday	Rosh Hashana	Jewish Holiday
2 Oct	Thursday	Yom Kippur	Jewish Holiday
4 Oct	Saturday	Feast of St Francis of Assisi	Observance, Christian
7 Oct	Tuesday	First day of Sukkot	Jewish Holiday
13 Oct	Monday	Hoshana Rabbah	Jewish Holiday
14 Oct	Tuesday	Shemini Atzeret	Jewish Holiday
15 Oct	Wednesday	Simchat Torah	Jewish Holiday
21 Oct	Tuesday	Diwali/Deepavali	Hindu Holiday
31 Oct	Friday	Halloween	Observance
1 Nov	Saturday	All Saints' Day	Observance, Christian
2 Nov	Sunday	All Souls' Day	Observance, Christian
5 Nov	Wednesday	Guy Fawkes Day	Observance
9 Nov	Sunday	Remembrance Sunday	Observance
30 Nov	Sunday	First Sunday of Advent	Observance, Christian
30 Nov	Sunday	St Andrew's Day	Local Bank Holiday	Scotland
1 Dec	Monday	St Andrew's Day observed	Local Bank Holiday	Scotland
8 Dec	Monday	Feast of the Immaculate Conception	Observance, Christian
15 Dec	Monday	First Day of Hanukkah	Jewish Holiday
22 Dec	Monday	Last day of Hanukkah	Jewish Holiday
24 Dec	Wednesday	Christmas Eve	Observance, Christian
25 Dec	Thursday	Christmas Day	Bank Holiday
26 Dec	Friday	Boxing Day	Bank Holiday
31 Dec	Wednesday	New Year's Eve	Observance

Conclusion

Staying aware of these dates can help you plan your year more effectively, ensuring you don't miss out on any important celebrations or opportunities to relax and enjoy time with family and friends.

Whether you're looking forward to a well-deserved break, planning festive activities, or simply keen to mark the year's significant dates, this guide to the UK public holidays and observances for 2025 will be an invaluable resource.

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