Christmas bank holidays
Christmas Day and Boxing Day create the UK's core Christmas bank holiday period.
Countdown
163
days to go
Next date
Friday, 25 December 2026
Christmas Day bank holiday 2026
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Upcoming dates
| Event | Date | Countdown | Region / notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christmas Day bank holiday 2026 | Friday, 25 December 2026 | In 5 months | UK |
| Boxing Day substitute bank holiday 2026 | Monday, 28 December 2026 | In 5 months | Boxing Day falls on Saturday |
| Christmas Day substitute bank holiday 2027 | Monday, 27 December 2027 | In 1 year 5 months | Christmas Day falls on Saturday |
| Boxing Day substitute bank holiday 2027 | Tuesday, 28 December 2027 | In 1 year 5 months | Boxing Day falls on Sunday |
The UK has bank holidays for Christmas Day and Boxing Day. When either date falls on a weekend, a substitute weekday is used, which can move the practical day off to the following Monday or Tuesday. These dates matter for travel, deliveries, shops, hospitality, payroll and family planning. Scotland, Northern Ireland and individual employers can handle surrounding days differently, so check local arrangements before booking anything expensive.
travel
Plan Christmas travel and family visits
Verified 13 May 2026
Questions
When are the Christmas bank holidays in 2026?
Friday 25 December and Monday 28 December 2026.
Why is Boxing Day bank holiday on 28 December in 2026?
Because Boxing Day falls on Saturday, so the substitute bank holiday moves to Monday.
Are Christmas bank holidays the same across the UK?
Christmas Day and Boxing Day are UK bank holidays, but local and employer arrangements can vary.