URGENT UPDATE: Major changes to the bank holidays in 2026 have just been confirmed, impacting households across England and Wales. With only two bank holidays remaining in 2025, this announcement is crucial for planning your year ahead.
The most significant change is related to Boxing Day, which falls on a Saturday in 2026. Consequently, the substitute bank holiday will be on Monday, December 28, allowing families to celebrate the holiday on a weekday. This adjustment reflects how fluctuating dates, like Easter, influence bank holiday scheduling.
In total, there will be eight bank holidays in 2026. They kick off with New Year’s Day on January 1, followed by Good Friday on April 3 and Easter Monday on April 6. Notably, these dates are earlier than the 2025 equivalents, which are set for April 18 and April 21.
May brings two bank holidays, both landing on Mondays: the Early May bank holiday on May 4 and the Spring bank holiday on May 25. The summer bank holiday will fall on August 31, slightly later than this year’s date of August 25.
As the year concludes, Christmas Day remains unchanged, scheduled for Friday, December 25. With the adjustment of Boxing Day, households will have the opportunity to enjoy an extended holiday weekend.
Here’s the full list of bank holidays for England and Wales in 2026:
– Thursday, January 1: New Year’s Day
– Friday, April 3: Good Friday
– Monday, April 6: Easter Monday
– Monday, May 4: Early May bank holiday
– Monday, May 25: Spring bank holiday
– Monday, August 31: Summer bank holiday
– Friday, December 25: Christmas Day
– Monday, December 28: Boxing Day (substitute day)
This urgent update is essential for families and businesses planning their schedules for 2026. Be sure to mark these dates on your calendar, as they may affect travel and holiday plans.
Stay tuned for further updates as more details become available. This information is vital for anyone looking to maximize their time off in the coming year!
