October Bank Holiday 2025, 2026 and 2027

The October Bank Holiday in Ireland is a public holiday observed on the last Monday of October each year.

In 2025, the October Bank Holiday falls on Monday 27 October.

How Ireland Celebrates

The October Bank Holiday provides an ideal opportunity for families and friends to come together and enjoy quality time. Many people use this extended weekend to explore Ireland's stunning autumn landscapes, with the countryside offering spectacular colors as leaves change season. It's a popular time for hiking, cycling, and scenic drives through national parks and rural areas.

Cities and towns across Ireland host festivals and events during the October Bank Holiday weekend. Music festivals, food markets, and cultural celebrations bring communities together, with streets often adorned with autumn decorations. Many venues organize special exhibitions highlighting Irish heritage, allowing both locals and tourists to delve into the country's rich history and traditions.

The timing of the holiday, coinciding with Halloween season, means many celebrations blend traditional Irish customs with modern autumn festivities. Pumpkin picking, costume events, and harvest celebrations are common, while families often use the extra day to prepare for Halloween or simply enjoy the crisp autumn weather together.

Is October Bank Holiday a Public Holiday?

Yes, the October Bank Holiday is an official public holiday in Ireland, recognized under the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997. This means most businesses, offices, banks, and government departments are closed, giving employees a guaranteed three-day weekend in late October.

If you're working in retail, hospitality, or essential services, you may still need to work, but you're entitled to premium pay rates or time off in lieu. Many shops and tourist attractions remain open to cater to the increased leisure activity, though they may operate on reduced hours. Public transport typically runs on a Sunday schedule, so it's worth checking timetables if you're planning to travel.

Public Life

The October Bank Holiday creates a lively atmosphere across Ireland as people make the most of their extended weekend. Popular tourist destinations and scenic areas experience increased visitor numbers, while city centers often host special events and markets. The autumn timing makes it particularly popular for outdoor activities before winter sets in.

Emergency services remain fully operational, and many restaurants and pubs extend their hours to accommodate the holiday crowds. Tourist attractions, museums, and cultural sites often have special opening hours or events. The holiday marks an important pause in the year, allowing people to enjoy Ireland's natural beauty during one of its most picturesque seasons.

Background

The October Bank Holiday traces its origins to the Bank Holidays Act of 1871 in the United Kingdom. This legislation was designed to give workers regular breaks from their duties and provide opportunities for leisure activities and community celebrations. When Ireland was part of the UK, it adopted this system of designated public holidays.

Following Irish independence, the tradition of the October Bank Holiday was maintained and became embedded in Irish employment law. The holiday serves both practical and cultural purposes - providing a necessary break during the busy autumn period while also creating opportunities for communities to come together and celebrate Irish culture and heritage.

The timing of the holiday in late October has particular significance in the Irish calendar, falling during the traditional harvest season and close to Halloween (Samhain), one of Ireland's most ancient festivals. This connection to seasonal celebrations and agricultural cycles reflects Ireland's deep-rooted relationship with the natural world and traditional customs.

Today's October Bank Holiday continues to serve its original purpose of providing respite from work while fostering community spirit. Whether people choose to explore Ireland's autumn landscapes, attend local festivals, or simply spend time with family and friends, the holiday represents an important pause in the yearly calendar that helps maintain work-life balance and cultural connections.

Previous Years