Bank Holiday in Ireland 2026
Bank Holidays Ireland 2026
Bank holidays in Ireland are a significant aspect of the country’s work-life balance and cultural heritage. They offer a well-deserved break for workers and a chance for families and friends to come together.
Bank holidays are public holidays recognized by the government, during which banks and most businesses close. In Ireland, they offer people a break from their regular work schedule and are often used for travel, relaxation, or celebration. These holidays are important in maintaining work-life balance and acknowledging Ireland’s cultural and historical events.
Ireland has several bank holidays during the year when banks and many businesses are closed. In 2026, these holidays include:
- Wednesday, January 1 – New Year’s Day
- Monday, February 2 – St Brigid’s Day
- Monday, March 17 – Saint Patrick’s Day
- Monday, April 6 – Easter Monday
- Monday, May 4 – May Day
- Monday, June 2 – June Bank Holiday
- Monday, August 3 – August Bank Holiday
- Monday, October 26 – October Bank Holiday
- Thursday, December 25 – Christmas Day
- Friday, December 26 – St Stephen’s Day
In 2024, St Patrick’s Day holiday will take place on Monday, the 18th of March.
How many bank holidays are there in 2026 in Ireland?
In 2026, Ireland will have 10 public bank holidays, which are commonly observed and celebrated across the country on specific, set dates.
What is the new bank holiday in Ireland?
In 2023, the Irish Government introduced a new bank holiday to celebrate St. Brigid’s Day. It will be held every year on the first Monday in February. In 2024, this holiday will be on February 5th.
Is Good Friday a bank holiday in Ireland?
Good Friday is not an official public holiday and is usually a regular working day. However, some employers may still choose to give their employees the day off.
What are the upcoming bank holidays in Ireland?
On a public holiday, sometimes called a bank holiday, most businesses and schools close. Other services (for example, public transport) still operate but often have restricted schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about Bank Holidays in Ireland.
Ireland has 10 bank holidays in 2026. These holidays are celebrated all over the country and usually fall on set dates.
Bank holidays in Ireland include: New Year’s Day (1 January), the first Monday in February, or 1 February if the date falls on a Friday, Saint Patrick’s Day (17 March), Easter Monday, the first Monday in May, the first Monday in June, the first Monday in August, the last Monday in October, Christmas Day (25 December), and Saint Stephen’s Day (26 December).
Employees are entitled to a day off with pay or an alternative benefit on public holidays, but not all bank holidays guarantee paid leave
Yes, bank holidays in Ireland are also public holidays. Most people get the day off work or school, allowing them to relax and enjoy time with family and friends.
Yes, many businesses, including offices and stores, and schools usually close on bank holidays. However, essential services like hospitals and public transport may still be open, though often with limited hours.
Yes, Ireland has 10 bank holidays, while Northern Ireland also has 10, but the specific holidays can differ between the two regions.
Yes, public transport like buses and trains usually runs on bank holidays in Ireland, but the schedules might change.