Bank Holidays Explained: UK, US & Global Differences
What's the difference between a bank holiday and a public holiday? Learn how bank holidays work in the UK, US, and around the world.
The term 'bank holiday' causes confusion for many, especially those communicating across borders. In some countries it means any public holiday, while in others it has a specific legal meaning. Here's everything you need to know.
UK Bank Holidays
In the United Kingdom, 'bank holiday' is the official term for public holidays when banks and many businesses close. The term dates back to the Bank Holidays Act 1871, which designated specific days when banks could close without penalty.
England and Wales have 8 bank holidays per year, while Scotland has 9 and Northern Ireland has 10. The term is used interchangeably with 'public holiday' in everyday British English.
UK Bank Holidays 2026
- New Year's Day: January 1
- Good Friday: April 3
- Easter Monday: April 6
- Early May Bank Holiday: May 4
- Spring Bank Holiday: May 25
- Summer Bank Holiday: August 31
- Christmas Day: December 25
- Boxing Day: December 28 (substitute)
US Federal Holidays
In the United States, 'bank holiday' technically only refers to days when the Federal Reserve is closed. Americans typically use 'federal holiday' or 'public holiday' instead. There are 11 federal holidays, though private employers aren't required to give any days off.
Key Differences
- UK: 'Bank holiday' = public holiday (everyday usage)
- US: 'Bank holiday' = only Federal Reserve closures
- Australia: Uses 'public holiday' officially
- Canada: Uses 'statutory holiday' or 'stat holiday'
- Ireland: Uses 'bank holiday' like the UK
When Holidays Fall on Weekends
The UK uses a 'substitute day' system - if a bank holiday falls on a weekend, the following Monday becomes the holiday. The US handles this differently by holiday: some are always on Monday (Memorial Day), while others are observed on the nearest weekday (Christmas).