2nd January Bank Holiday 2026

When is it?

The 2nd January Bank Holiday 2026 falls on Friday, 2 January 2026.
It’s a public holiday in Scotland, following immediately after New Year’s Day celebrations. This extended break — often called the Hogmanay Holiday — allows Scots to recover from and continue their world-famous New Year festivities.

What Makes It Special?

While England, Wales, and Northern Ireland return to work, Scotland continues to celebrate. This extra holiday recognizes the deep cultural importance of Hogmanay, Scotland’s vibrant New Year tradition rooted in centuries of music, hospitality, and community spirit.

Here’s what makes it unique:

• 🥁 Extended Hogmanay Celebrations:
  Streets and towns across Scotland are still alive with festive cheer. In cities like Edinburgh, celebrations stretch well into the 2nd of January, often featuring fireworks, live music, and torchlight processions.
• 🍻 Rest and Renewal:
  After an intense New Year’s Eve and Day, this extra day allows people to unwind, visit friends, or simply enjoy quiet family time.
• 🏠 First-Footing Continues:
  The Scottish tradition of first-footing (welcoming the first visitor of the year) often carries on into 2 January, bringing luck, warmth, and — of course — a bit more whisky. 🥃
• 🌄 New Year Walks & Gatherings:
  Many take this opportunity to explore the countryside or coastlines, making the most of the crisp winter air and a slower start to the year.

Fun Fact

Scotland’s two-day New Year celebration was made official under the Bank Holidays (Scotland) Act 1871, giving Scots both 1 and 2 January as public holidays — a unique distinction within the UK.

Ways to Celebrate in 2026

• Host a Hogmanay recovery brunch with friends
• Take a scenic Highlands or coastal walk
• Visit local ceilidh dances or community events
• Share Scottish shortbread and whisky as a first-footing gift
• Reflect on personal goals for the year in a relaxed setting