Early May Bank Holiday
May 5, Monday
Historical origins
Though it became official in the 20th century, the holiday has much older roots:
- In pre-Christian times, May was celebrated as the arrival of spring with festivals and folk events.
- One of the oldest traditions is the maypole, where people dance around a decorated pole.
- May is also associated with International Workers' Day (May 1), especially in socialist and labor movements.
Purpose of the holiday
The main goal is to provide a springtime break and promote work-life balance. It’s commonly a day for:
- Street fairs and local festivals
- Sporting events
- Concerts and family picnics
How is it celebrated today?
Nowadays, the holiday is mostly secular. People:
- Enjoy a long weekend
- Travel around the country
- Spend time with family
- Join local events
Is it a public day off?
Yes, the Early May Bank Holiday is a non-working day for most people in the UK. Schools and many workplaces are closed.
How is it different from other May holidays?
The UK also has a Spring Bank Holiday, held on the last Monday of May. The Early May Bank Holiday is at the start of the month.