Early May bank holiday
The early May bank holiday falls on the first Monday in May across the UK.
Countdown
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Next date
Monday, 3 May 2027
Early May bank holiday 2027
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Upcoming dates
| Event | Date | Countdown | Region / notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early May bank holiday 2027 | Monday, 3 May 2027 | In 10 months | UK |
| Early May bank holiday 2028 | Monday, 1 May 2028 | In 1 year 10 months | UK |
| Early May bank holiday 2029 | Monday, 7 May 2029 | In 2 years 10 months | UK |
The early May bank holiday, often called the May Day bank holiday, falls on the first Monday in May across the UK. It creates a long weekend at the start of the warmer season and is commonly used for short breaks, garden projects, day trips and local events. The date is predictable because it follows a simple calendar rule, although schools and workplaces may have their own surrounding schedules. It sits a few weeks before the spring bank holiday at the end of May, so the two are easy to mix up when planning ahead.
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Plan an early May long weekend
Verified 13 May 2026
Questions
When is the early May bank holiday in 2026?
It falls on Monday 4 May 2026.
Is early May bank holiday the same as May Day?
Yes, it is commonly called the May Day bank holiday.
Is it always the first Monday in May?
Yes, in the standard UK bank holiday calendar.
Is it the same across the UK?
Yes, the early May bank holiday applies across the UK.