2nd January Bank Holiday in Scotland – Meaning, History & Future Dates
In Scotland, the 2nd January Bank Holiday is a long-standing tradition that follows New Year’s Day.
It’s officially recognised under the Bank Holidays Act 1971 and gives Scots an extra day to celebrate and rest after the famous Hogmanay festivities.
Unlike the rest of the UK — where only 1 January is a public holiday — Scotland enjoys both 1 and 2 January as official days off, reflecting its unique cultural heritage.
When is the next UK bank holiday?
Why Does Scotland Have a 2nd January Bank Holiday?
The 2 January holiday has deep cultural roots in Hogmanay, the Scottish New Year celebration.
Before Christmas became widely observed, Hogmanay was Scotland’s biggest winter festival — filled with music, food, and first-footing (visiting friends and neighbours just after midnight).
Because celebrations often continue well into the early hours of 1 January, the extra day off on 2 January allows time for recovery, travel, and time with family.
🏛️ Source: Scottish Government – Bank Holidays
Legal Background
The Bank Holidays Act 1971 formally designates 2 January as a bank holiday in Scotland.
If it falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the public holiday moves to the next Monday (a substitute day).
2nd January Bank Holiday Dates (2024–2028)
| Year | Day | Observed Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Tuesday | 2 January 2024 | Regular date |
| 2025 | Thursday | 2 January 2025 | Regular date |
| 2026 | Friday | 2 January 2026 | Regular date |
| 2027 | Saturday | Monday, 4 January 2027 | Substitute day |
| 2028 | Sunday | Monday, 3 January 2028 | Substitute day |
(If 2 January falls on a weekend, the following Monday becomes the observed public holiday.)
📖 Source: Time and Date – UK Public Holidays
Who Observes This Holiday?
The 2 January holiday is observed across all of Scotland, including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, and the Highlands.
Most:
- Government offices
- Local councils
- Schools
- and many private businesses
close for the day. However, some UK-wide banks may operate as normal for consistency across the rest of the UK.
How Scots Celebrate the 2 January Holiday
While 1 January is for fireworks and parties, 2 January is for slowing down.
Typical activities include:
- Visiting family or neighbours
- Hosting small get-togethers
- Taking winter walks
- Attending community events
In Edinburgh, the Hogmanay celebrations often extend through both 1 and 2 January, making it one of the most festive times of year.
How It Differs From the Rest of the UK
This holiday makes Scotland’s bank holiday calendar slightly different from England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Scotland gets 2 January off — but does not observe the late August bank holiday that applies elsewhere.
For more UK-wide dates, see:
- 🔗 UK Bank Holidays 2025 – Full List with Calendar
- 🔗 Scotland Bank Holidays Guide
- 🔗 England and Wales Bank Holidays
Is 2 January a bank holiday in Scotland?
Yes. It’s an official bank and public holiday in Scotland, recognised under the Bank Holidays Act 1971.
Why does Scotland get 2 January off?
Because Hogmanay celebrations are central to Scottish culture, the 2 January holiday gives people more time to rest and spend with family after New Year’s Day.
Is 2 January a holiday in England or Wales?
No. The 2nd January bank holiday is unique to Scotland. In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, 2 January is a normal working day.
What happens if 2 January falls on a weekend?
When 2 January lands on a Saturday or Sunday, the substitute holiday moves to the following Monday.
Do banks close on 2 January in Scotland?
Some banks, especially Scottish ones, may close. However, UK-wide banks sometimes stay open for operational consistency.
Final Thoughts
The 2nd January Bank Holiday is more than an extra day off — it’s part of Scotland’s cultural identity. It reflects the importance of community, celebration, and tradition that define the Scottish New Year. Whether you’re planning a holiday or updating your calendar, remember:
In Scotland, the New Year doesn’t end on the 1st — it continues proudly on the 2nd of January.