All Bank Holiday is the first Monday of the month of May. This is the title in the United Kingdom. It's referred to as May Day in England, Wales and even Northern Ireland. In Scotland, it's called the Early May Bank Holiday. It's a celebration to mark the beginning of summer, though has recently become a celebration for workers' rights.
Upcoming Dates For All Bank Holiday
The first Monday of May is when All Bank Holiday is celebrated, so the date varies. It is a long weekend and the opening of summer, so you'll want to start planning! Here are the upcoming dates:
- Monday, May 1, 2017
- Monday, May 7, 2018
- Monday, May 6, 2019
- Monday, May 4, 2020
- Monday, May 3, 2021
- Monday, May 2, 2022
- Monday, May 1, 2023
- Monday, May 6, 2024
- Monday, May 5, 2025
Where Is All Bank Holiday Considered a Holiday?
Everywhere All Bank Holiday is observed (regardless of what name it goes by), it is considered a holiday. Many individuals will get the day off work to spend time with their family. This turns the average weekend prior into a long weekend. Since it's also the opening of the summer season, many families may choose to go camping. It would also be a good time to take a short vacation, since schools are closed as well. Government offices are also closed, however individual shops may remain open. It depends on the local law regarding being open for business.
Festivities & Events During All Bank Holiday
There are many celebrations on All Bank Holiday. These celebrations can include rejoicing over the end of the winter. They include fertility celebrations, where the holiday has roots. It's traditional that young girls will dance around a pole with brightly colored ribbons suspended from it. The idea is that together, they are creating intricate patterns with the ribbons as they spin and twirl. This display is commonly a part of school celebration. Dancing is a common way to celebrate All Bank Holiday. There are several other forms of dancing that can be seen on the streets and in festivals. Many people are adorned with flower and leaf crowns and floral patterns. Of course, many chooses to simply spend the extra day with their family.
A Brief History About All Bank Holiday
The history of the All Bank Holiday(s) dates back to Pagan fertility celebrations. Particularly those held to celebrate the Roman goddess, Flora. There have been petitions and protests regarding the celebration, because it's lack of religion. However, it continues to be celebrated. In more recent times, the celebration is simply a day to spend with family members, as well as welcome in the summer weather.