October Bank Holiday

October Bank Holiday History

Ireland's October Holiday, also known as the October Bank Holiday, marks the end of the Irish summer season. The main purpose of this holiday is to offer a long weekend of relaxation and leisure for the Irish people before the onset of winter, and it often provides an opportunity for families and friends to come together and spend quality time. Important aspects of this observance include various events and festivities organized throughout the country, as well as a chance for people to plan short breaks or enjoy outdoor activities.

The October Bank Holiday was established in Ireland in 1977, as a way to honor a long-standing Irish tradition that associates the last Monday of October with a holiday. This decision was also influenced by other European countries that already had an autumn public holiday. During this time, visitors from other European countries can partake in the local events and soak up the Irish culture while enjoying the pleasant autumn weather.

Travelers from across the EU flock to Ireland during this time to experience the best that the country has to offer – from attending music and food festivals to exploring the breathtaking landscapes. Ireland's October Holiday is observed on October 30th.

Top facts about October Bank Holiday

• Halloween, from the Celtic festival of Samhain originated in County Meath, Ireland, over 2,000 years ago.
• Jack O’Lentern dates to the 18th century, an Irish blacksmith was supposedly refused entry to heaven having been found colluding with the Devil. Condemned to wander the earth with only a coal burning inside a turnip. By putting a 'Lantern themselves in a window they would ward the spirit away'. Irish migrants to America carried on the tradition, but swapped turnips for pumpkins due to supply issues.

In the News and Trending in Ireland for October Bank Holiday

October Bank Holiday Top Events and Things to Do

• Celebrate Samhain or Halloween by getting dressed up and embracing chaos for the night! This ancient festival and its 18th century descendant sometimes coincides with the Bank Holiday.
• Take a trip to the Giant’s Causeway. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is made of 40,000 polygonal basalt rock columns. They form a set of gigantic stepping stones.