October Bank Holiday in Ireland: October 26
October Bank Holiday is a public holiday in Ireland.
The last Monday of October is a public holiday known and October Bank Holiday in the Republic of Ireland. Though the holiday is set on Monday, October 26, the celebration actually takes place over the long weekend. A variety of cultural and sporting events are held during the October Bank Holiday weekend.
History of Ireland’s October Bank Holiday
The October Bank Holiday was introduced by the Holidays (Employees) Act, 1973, and was first observed in 1977. It is a day off for workers, with many planning short breaks or long vacations around the holiday. The date was set on the last Monday in October so as to coincide with a week-long break in many schools at the end of October and beginning of November, and with the end of daylight savings time on the last Sunday of October in Ireland. Because the holiday often falls in the same week as Halloween, it is sometimes called the “Halloween Holiday”. Ireland also observes Bank Holidays on the first Mondays of May, June, and August.
Irish October Bank Holiday Traditions, Customs and Activities
A variety of festivities are held throughout the long weekend, including; The Dublin Marathon, theater, arts and fashion festivals, traditional Irish music performances, traditional Irish food and drink, and Halloween themed events. Banks, post offices and many businesses and organizations are closed October 26, but most stores and pubs remain open.
Other interesting posts:
- Ireland Bank Holiday
- Spring Bank Holiday (Whit Weekend)
- Channel Islands Celebrates Spring Bank Holiday
- UK and Wales celebrates Summer Holiday
- Halloween
Other interesting posts:
