UK Government Announces 12 Bank Holidays Scheduled for 2026

The UK Government has confirmed the dates for the remaining bank holidays in 2026. A total of 12 bank holidays will be observed across the UK, with specific dates varying by region. The announcement, made via official channels, provides clarity for citizens planning their calendars in the upcoming years.

The Easter weekend will kick off the series of holidays, featuring two bank holidays: Good Friday on April 3 and Easter Monday on April 6. While England, Wales, and Northern Ireland will observe both dates, Scotland recognizes Good Friday but does not celebrate Easter Monday.

Upcoming Bank Holidays Across the UK

The Government has outlined the following bank holidays for the remainder of 2026:

– **England and Wales**:
January 1 – New Year’s Day
April 3 – Good Friday
April 6 – Easter Monday
May 4 – Early May Bank Holiday
May 25 – Spring Bank Holiday
August 31 – Summer Bank Holiday
December 25 – Christmas Day
December 28 – Boxing Day (substitute day)

– **Scotland**:
April 3 – Good Friday
May 4 – Early May Bank Holiday
May 25 – Spring Bank Holiday
June 15 – World Cup Bank Holiday
August 3 – Summer Bank Holiday
November 30 – St. Andrew’s Day
December 25 – Christmas Day
December 28 – Boxing Day (substitute day)

– **Northern Ireland**:
March 17 – St. Patrick’s Day
April 3 – Good Friday
April 6 – Easter Monday
May 4 – Early May Bank Holiday
May 25 – Spring Bank Holiday
July 13 – Battle of the Boyne (substitute day)
August 31 – Summer Bank Holiday
December 25 – Christmas Day
December 28 – Boxing Day (substitute day)

Special Recognition for Scotland

In a notable announcement, the Scottish Government will implement an additional bank holiday on June 15, 2026. This special day will commemorate Scotland’s men’s football team competing in the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 28 years. Buckingham Palace confirmed this decision, stating, “To mark the achievement… we consider it desirable that Monday, the fifteenth day of June in the year 2026 should be a bank holiday in Scotland.”

With these confirmed dates, residents across the UK can now plan their holidays and celebrations, ensuring that the diverse regional practices are respected and followed.