Early May bank holiday 2026
Do you get the day off?
- The date, and why
- Early May Bank Holiday 2026 falls on Monday, May 4 — the first Monday of May. This creates a 3-day long weekend (Sat May 2 – Mon May 4).
- What kind of holiday
- Early May Bank Holiday is a permanent bank holiday under the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971. Originally created to coincide with International Workers' Day (May 1).
- Where it counts as statutory
- Nationwide (England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland). All government offices, banks, and schools close. Most businesses observe the holiday.
- Long weekend
- May 2026 calendar: Sat May 2 – Sun May 3 – Mon May 4 (Early May Bank Holiday). The weekend often features spring fairs, village fetes, and outdoor events as the weather warms.
- What closes
- Banks, government offices, and most businesses close. Shops and supermarkets typically have reduced hours. Public transport runs on a Sunday or holiday schedule.
- Where the name comes from
- The Early May Bank Holiday was introduced in 1978 to replace Whit Monday (a moveable Christian feast). It falls near May Day, traditionally celebrated with maypole dancing and spring festivals.