Also on Bank Holidays UK: Easter Bank Holiday 2026 — Long Weekend Dates · Bank Holiday April 2026 — Easter Weekend · Easter Monday — Date, History & Pay
December 2026 has two bank holidays: Friday 25 December (Christmas Day) and Monday 28 December (Boxing Day substitute, since 26 December is a Saturday).
Christmas Day — Friday 25 December 2026
One of the oldest UK bank holidays. The Christmas Day (Trading) Act 2004 prohibits large shops from opening. Full guide.
Boxing Day substitute — Monday 28 December 2026
Boxing Day itself (Saturday 26 December) is the original holiday — but because it falls on a weekend, the bank holiday substitutes to the following Monday.
New Year’s Day 2027
Friday 1 January 2027 is a bank holiday too — making the December/January stretch particularly long if you can take 29-31 December off.
Frequently asked
What’s the answer for ‘bank holiday december 2026’?
Two bank holidays in December 2026: Friday 25 December (Christmas Day) and Monday 28 December (Boxing Day substitute).
Are these dates confirmed?
Yes — UK bank holiday dates are confirmed by GOV.UK. Royal Proclamation can move them only in exceptional cases.
Where can I see the full year?
Bank Holidays UK 2026 for the live calendar.