Bank Holidays in Ireland: Essential Information

Bank Holidays in Ireland

The bank holidays in Republic of Ireland differ from in the UK which includes Northern Ireland. Important differences to note are ROI has a bank holiday the first Monday in June & the first Monday in August which differ to the UK. Campsites are likely to be very busy across those weekends & need prebooking. Halloween is also a very big celebration in Ireland & there are some great Halloween events that run if you’re travelling in the autumn eg Derry & Trim/Athboy. It goes without saying that all over the island or Ireland St Patricks Day is a bank holiday & a huge celebration.

Dates for 2025 for both countries are listed below:

ROI Bank Holidays 2025

New Year’s Day – Wednesday, January 1
St. Brigid’s Day – Monday, February 3
St. Patrick’s Day – Monday, March 17
Easter Monday – Monday, April 21
May Day – Monday, May 5
June Bank Holiday – Monday, June 2
August Bank Holiday – Monday, August 4
October Bank Holiday – Monday, October 27
Christmas Day – Thursday, December 25
St. Stephen’s Day – Friday, December 26

Northern Ireland Bank Holidays 2025

New Year’s Day – Wednesday, January 1
St Patrick’s Day – Monday, 17 March
Good Friday – Friday, April 18
Easter Monday – Monday, April 21
Early May Bank Holiday – Monday, May 5
Spring Bank Holiday – Monday, May 26
Orangemen’s Day – Monday, 14 July
Summer Bank Holiday – Monday, August 25
Christmas Day – Thursday, December 25
Boxing Day – Friday, December 26

Plan your motorhome route around these dates by downloading one of our themed routes.

Also check out our festivals blog as many of them run across bank holidays.

Bonfires and Orange Parades in Northern Ireland: A Guide for UK Tourists

The bonfires and Orange parades in Northern Ireland are vibrant cultural events held every July, deeply rooted in history and tradition. While fascinating, they are also politically significant, so understanding their context is key for visitors.

History and Events

The Twelfth of July (Orangemen’s Day): Celebrates King William III’s victory at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690, a pivotal moment for Protestant and Unionist communities. Parades organized by the Orange Order feature marching bands and traditional attire.
The Eleventh Night Bonfires: On July 11th, communities light large bonfires symbolizing the beacons used to guide King William’s ships. These events often include music, food, and festivities.

Useful Information for Tourists

Where to Go: Popular bonfire locations include Belfast, Portadown, and Ballymena. The largest parades occur in Belfast and Armagh.
Timing: Bonfires are lit late on July 11th (around 10–11 PM), while parades start on the morning of July 12th.
Transportation: Expect road closures and limited parking near parade routes. Plan ahead or use public transport.
Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid wearing politically sensitive symbols and respect the cultural significance of these events.

Is It Safe to Visit?

For the most part, these events are peaceful and celebratory, but they can occasionally lead to tensions in certain areas. Stick to well-known locations, avoid contentious sites, and follow local advice. Police are present to ensure safety, so don’t hesitate to ask for assistance if needed.

Conclusion

The bonfires and Orange parades offer a unique insight into Northern Ireland’s history and culture. With proper planning and sensitivity, UK tourists can enjoy these events safely while gaining a deeper appreciation of the region’s heritage.