Christmas Day

Christmas Day 2026 falls on Friday, December 25. Boxing Day falls on Saturday, December 26, with the substitute bank holiday on Monday, December 28.

Christmas Day is a statutory bank holiday in all UK nations. When it falls on a weekend, the following Monday becomes a substitute bank holiday.

Nationwide (England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland). One of only two bank holidays that apply equally across all four nations without regional variation.

December 2026 calendar: Fri Dec 25 (Christmas) – Sat Dec 26 (Boxing Day) – Sun Dec 27 – Mon Dec 28 (Boxing Day substitute). Many workers get a 4-day break Thu-Sun or longer.

Almost all businesses close on Christmas Day. Public transport is extremely limited or suspended. Boxing Day sees some shops reopen for sales, though hours vary.

Christmas Day celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and is the UK's most observed holiday. Traditions include exchanging gifts, Christmas dinner with turkey and crackers, the King's Christmas speech, and family gatherings.