London is a bustling city that offers a plethora of activities and attractions to visitors all year round. One of the biggest draws for tourists is the numerous holidays and festivals that take place throughout the year. In this article, we will explore how many holidays there are in London and what makes each one unique.
Bank Holidays
One of the most well-known types of holidays in London is a bank holiday. These are public holidays where banks, schools, and many businesses close for the day. There are eight bank holidays in England and Wales, which include New Year’s Day (January 1st), Good Friday (the Friday before Easter Sunday), Easter Monday (the Monday after Easter Sunday), May Day (the first Monday in May), Spring Bank Holiday (the last Monday in May), Summer Bank Holiday (the last Monday in August), Christmas Day (December 25th), and Boxing Day (December 26th).
Religious Holidays
London is home to many different religions, and as such, there are several religious holidays celebrated throughout the year. Some of these include Christmas, Easter, Hanukkah, Diwali, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Passover. Each holiday has its own unique traditions and celebrations that take place across the city.
National Holidays
In addition to bank holidays and religious holidays, there are also national holidays celebrated in London. These include St. George’s Day (April 23rd) which celebrates England’s patron saint with parades and events across London; Remembrance Day (November 11th) which honors those who have died in war; and Bonfire Night or Guy Fawkes Night (November 5th) which commemorates the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605 with fireworks displays.
Festivals
London hosts a wide variety of festivals throughout the year that celebrate everything from food and drink to music and culture. Some of the most popular festivals include Notting Hill Carnival (August Bank Holiday), Pride in London (June/July), Winter Wonderland (November-January), the London Marathon (April), and the Thames Festival (September).
Conclusion
As you can see, there is no shortage of holidays and celebrations in London. Whether you’re visiting for a specific event or just happen to be in town during a holiday, there is always something happening in this vibrant city. So next time you’re planning a trip to London, make sure to check out the calendar of events to see what holidays and festivals are taking place during your visit.