2009 Bank Holidays in UK

Britain has relatively few public holidays as compared to other European countries. They are called 'Bank Holidays' or 'Public Holidays' because banks are officially closed and so no trading takes place. British Bank Holidays have been recognized since 1871. There are total of 8 permanent and public holidays in England, Wales and Ireland, and 10 in Northern Ireland, these are not specified by law but have become customary holidays because of common observance.

List of Bank Holidays in the UK

New Year's Day 1 Jan:

New Year is a universal celebration and good time to renew bond of love and bliss with dear ones. Rocking celebration, partying and music, marks New Year festivity. All the UK Banks are closed on New Year.

Good Friday 10 Apr:

Good Friday is the Friday before Easter Sunday. On this day Jesus Christ was crucified. Since, the early nineteenth century, on Good Friday, Banks of UK shuts down and bankers spend happy time at home and eat hot cross buns. The date of Good Friday is not fixed and keeps changing and on 2009 its on 10th April.

Easter Monday 13 Apr:

Easter also called 'ascension of God' marks the dawn of spring time festivities. Its the time for celebration of Jesus Christ's coming back to life again after crucification. Easter dates keep changing every year and on 2009 its falling on 13th April. UK Banks will also be closed this day.

Early May Bank Holiday 4 May:

It's the time when warmer weather begins, flowers start blooming and love and romance heralds. May day celebrations has its origin in the Roman festival of Flora, Goddess of fruits and flowers. On this joyful and colorful day, banks across th UK are closed.

Spring Bank Holiday 25 May:

Spring Bank Holiday falls on the last Monday in May after Pentecost. Organizations, schools and Banks of UK are closed this day and its a pleasant day off from the work. People go on walk, catch up with their friends and enjoy a gala time.

Summer Bank Holiday 31 Aug:

2009 Summer bank holiday is on 31st August. UK Bankers can go on vacations, family trip or can chill out staying at home on hot summers.

Christmas Day 25 Dec:

Winter festivity reaches its prime on Christmas. It's a must have Bank Holiday in UK. Houses are decorated, Christmas tree is adorned with baubles, lights and gifts; wreath hugs outside the door , stocking are placed near the chimneys. Christmas is a big celebrations that sweeps the world in its celebrations.

Boxing Day 26 Dec :

The feast of St. Stephens, the first Christian martyr is known as 'Boxing Day'. Its celebrated on 26th December, one day after Christmas.

Additional Holiday in Northern Ireland-

St. Andrews Holiday:

St. Andrews was a patron saint of Scotland. In January 2007, the St. Andrew's Day Bank Holiday Act was given royal accent. 30th November or nearest Monday in weekend is a bank Holiday. On 2009, it will fall on 1 December and marks the advent of Christmas Market.

Second of January:

Second of January is a national holiday in Scotland. After the week's old revelry and merrymaking, the day gives enough time to relax. It encircles the ancient customs and traditions of ancient pagan festival of Hogmanay.