Whether you're planning a vacation in Ireland or just calculating how to get the most holiday days off work we've put together a rundown of Ireland's Bank Holidays for 2024.
New Year's Day - Sunday, January 1
New Year's Day is a public holiday in Ireland, as it is in many countries around the world. It is a time when people traditionally reflect on the past year, make resolutions for the upcoming year, and celebrate the start of a new chapter.
St. Brigid's Day - Monday, February 5
St. Brigid's Day celebrations.
St. Brigid's Day was first observed as an Irish bank holiday in 2023. While St. Brigid's Day is on February 1, the bank holiday will be observed on Monday, February 5 in 2024.
St. Brigid is often associated with both Christian and pre-Christian traditions, and her feast day marks the beginning of spring in the Irish calendar. She is believed to have been born in the 5th century and is associated with many miracles and acts of charity. St. Brigid is also one of Ireland's three patron saints, alongside St. Patrick and St. Columba. Her feast day also falls on the pagan festival day of Imbolc.
St. Patrick's Day - Sunday, March 17
St. Patrick's Day in Dublin, 2018. (Getty Images)
March 17 is the day when Ireland takes center stage around the world. St. Patrick's Day is not just a national holiday; it's a global phenomenon! The streets come alive with parades and lively music to honor the patron saint of Ireland. Whether you're in Dublin or dancing a jig in your living room, the day is a joyful celebration of all things Irish.
Easter Monday - Monday, April 1
After the egg hunt frenzy, Easter Monday brings a unique blend of Irish traditions and family festivities. Take a stroll through the lush green countryside, savor some delicious hot cross buns, and join in the traditional egg rolling competitions that will have you laughing your way into the week.
May Day - Monday, May 6
May Day in Ireland is traditionally celebrated on May 1 and is often associated with the ancient Celtic festival of Beltaine. However, in more recent history, May Day has also been connected with the labor movement and workers' rights.
Beltaine marks the beginning of the warmer season. Traditional celebrations included lighting bonfires, dancing, and rituals to welcome the fertility of the land and livestock.
In the 20th century, May Day became associated with the labor movement and workers' rights. It is a day to honor and celebrate the contributions of workers, and it often involves demonstrations, parades, and other events advocating for labor rights and social justice.
June Bank Holiday - Monday, June 3
The first Monday in June marks the unofficial start of summer, and Ireland knows how to kick it off with a bang! From music festivals to outdoor adventures, the June Bank Holiday is all about enjoying the longer days and warmer weather. Pack a picnic, grab your sun hat, and head to one of Ireland's stunning beaches or lush parks for a day of pure relaxation.
August Bank Holiday - Monday, August 5
The first Monday in August is a time for merriment and mischief as Ireland celebrates the August Bank Holiday. From street fairs to open-air concerts, there's no shortage of entertainment. Grab your dancing shoes, indulge in some delicious Irish cuisine, and let the good times roll!
October Bank Holiday - Monday, October 28
A Halloween parade in Dublin.
Ireland is the birthplace of Halloween, and the festivities are nothing short of spectacular. From haunted houses to eerie parades, Halloween in Ireland is a spine-tingling experience. Embrace the spooky spirit, don your most creative costume, and join the ghoulish celebrations that make October 31 a night to remember. In 2024, the Bank Holiday will be observed on Monday, October 28.
Christmas Day - Wednesday, December 25
Ireland's Christmas celebrations are a heartwarming blend of tradition and festive cheer. From the twinkling lights of Dublin to the cozy pubs in the countryside, the holiday season is a time for family, friends, and spreading goodwill. Indulge in some delicious mince pies, sip on a warm cup of mulled wine, and join the Irish in celebrating the magic of Christmas.
St Stephen's Day - Thursday, December 26
St. Stephen's Day, also known as the Feast of St. Stephen or Boxing Day, is celebrated on December 26 in Ireland.
One of the most distinctive traditions associated with St. Stephen's Day in Ireland is the Wren Day procession. In some regions, groups of people, often dressed in costumes and wearing masks, participate in a lively parade known as the Wren Boys Procession.
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