Is Halloween a bank holiday?
No. Halloween (31 October) is not a bank holiday in the UK. The Republic of Ireland's October bank holiday falls on the last Monday of October, which is sometimes Halloween itself.
NoNot a UK bank holiday
31 OctHalloween 2026 · Saturday
25 DecNext bank holiday after: Christmas Day
What it means for work and shops
Schools often have half term around Halloween, but that is set by each local authority, not by bank holiday law.
Looking for a nearby bank holiday? See October bank holiday.
Halloween dates
| Year | Date | Bank holiday? |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Saturday 31 October 2026 | No |
| 2027 | Sunday 31 October 2027 | No |
| 2028 | Tuesday 31 October 2028 | No |
| 2029 | Wednesday 31 October 2029 | No |
| 2030 | Thursday 31 October 2030 | No |
Other days that aren't bank holidays
Frequently asked questions
When is Halloween 2026?
Halloween 2026 is on Saturday 31 October 2026.
Is Halloween a day off work?
Only if your employer or contract gives it as a day off. There is no legal right to time off, and no extra pay is required, because it is not a bank holiday.