Since it falls close to Halloween, the October Bank Holiday may be filled with Halloween-themed celebrations. It marks a time of cultural celebration as well. It also lands on the week-long break from school that is given to most students in October.
Upcoming Dates & Where They Are Celebrated
The October Bank Holiday is on the last Monday of October. It often falls on the day after daylight savings ends. Although, not every year. It is also common to fall on the date of Halloween, or the day before. Here is a list of the upcoming dates for celebration:
- Monday, October 30, 2017
- Monday, October 29, 2018
- Monday, October 28, 2019
- Monday, October 26, 2020
- Monday, October 25, 2021
- Monday, October 31, 2022
- Monday, October 30, 2023
- Monday, October 28, 2024
- Monday, October 27, 2025
Where Is October Bank Holiday Considered A Holiday?
Stores are generally open for a few hours during the bank holiday. However, any government office will be closed on this date. Post offices and banks and many other businesses are closed as well. Public transportation depends on the town or city. In some places, it will be available, while it won't be in others. There is often a disruption to traffic, due to the celebrations and festivals. This is particularly a warning in Dublin, where the marathon is taking place.
Festivities & Events During October Bank Holiday
During the October Bank Festival, it is common to see Halloween-themed celebrations. This is because it falls very close to the date of Halloween. On this day is the Dublin marathon. It's common to celebrate with drinking and Irish food. Each celebration comes alongside traditional Irish music. There are often art festivals, including fashion and theatre. Mostly, parties are held to celebrate Irish culture, as well as Halloween. Celebrations of culture may just be slightly adjusted to have a Halloween theme. This may include dressing in costume during the celebrations. Since many students have the week-long break, families may choose to spend this time together. They may plan a vacation together, with the long weekend working to their advantage.
A Brief History Of October Bank Holiday
The first observance of the October Bank Holiday was in 1977, 3 years after being introduced. It lands in the same week as Halloween, often landing on the day of Halloween. For this reason, it has been given the second name of the "Halloween Holiday". This holiday also falls on the week-long school vacation in Ireland.