Bank Holidays to Look Forward to This May — And What They Actually Mean
May 2025 is serving up not one, but two bank holidays for people across Ireland — and if you’re already planning getaways, long weekends, or even just a lie-in, here’s everything you need to know about when they fall and what they’re all about.
These breaks are more than just bonus Mondays off work. One is a celebration of summer and workers’ rights, while the other has been shifted for a very specific political reason.
Bank Holidays to Look Forward to This May
1. May Day Bank Holiday – Monday, 5th May 2025
This is the first of the two bank holidays in May and is traditionally held on the first Monday of the month.
What does it mean?
- Known as May Day, this holiday has pagan roots in the ancient festival of Beltaine, which marked the beginning of summer.
- In modern times, it has also become a symbol of workers’ rights and is associated with International Labour Day, observed globally on 1st May.
- In Ireland, it’s a day for parades, protests, family gatherings, and local festivals.
How can people spend it?
- Many take advantage of the long weekend to travel or unwind.
- Look out for music festivals, hiking trips, BBQs, or just some downtime before summer gets busier.
- Schools and most businesses will be closed, so it’s a perfect time to switch off.
2. Moved June Bank Holiday – Monday, 26th May 2025
Now here’s something you don’t see every year — a rescheduled bank holiday. The traditional June Bank Holiday (usually the first Monday in June) is being brought forward to Monday, 26th May 2025.
Why was it moved?
- The Irish government has shifted the date to avoid a clash with the European Parliament Elections, which are due to take place in early June.
- Holding a bank holiday and major elections on the same day posed logistical issues, especially around voting accessibility and staffing.
What changes?
- You’ll still get the usual long weekend — it’s just one week earlier than usual.
- This is a one-off change and not a permanent shift in the calendar.
What Does This Mean for You?
With two Mondays off in one month, Irish residents and workers have a rare chance to:
- Plan back-to-back weekend trips or short breaks.
- Take extended leave by bridging holidays with annual leave days.
- Enjoy more family time, attend local events, or even just catch up on rest.
It’s also worth noting that with summer just around the corner, these breaks are seen by many as a prelude to longer holidays and the festival season.
Quick Recap: May 2025 Bank Holidays in Ireland
| Date | Holiday Name | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| 5th May 2025 | May Day Bank Holiday | Start of summer, celebration of workers’ rights |
| 26th May 2025 | Moved June Bank Holiday | Shifted due to EU Elections (one-time change) |
Whether you’re heading west to the coast, spending time with family, or just basking in the bonus time off — May is shaping up to be one of the best months of 2025 for taking a breather.
Stay informed with itson.ie.
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