St Patrick’s Day 2026
UK 2026 Bank Holidays Countdown
–:–:–:–
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Date | Tuesday, 17 March 2026 |
| Type | Public / Bank Holiday (Northern Ireland) |
| Region | Northern Ireland (celebrated UK-wide) |
| Next Year’s Date | Tuesday, 17 March 2027 |
When is it?
St Patrick’s Day 2026 falls on Tuesday, 17 March 2026.
It is a public holiday in Northern Ireland, celebrated annually to honor Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Though it’s an official bank holiday only in Northern Ireland, festivities take place across the UK, Ireland, and worldwide, as people of Irish heritage celebrate their culture and traditions.
What Makes It Special?
St Patrick’s Day is one of the most recognized celebrations on the planet — a joyful day filled with parades, music, dancing, and plenty of green! 💚
Here’s what makes it stand out:
- 🇮🇪 Celebrating Irish Heritage:
The day honors Saint Patrick, who is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland in the 5th century. It’s a moment of pride for Irish communities everywhere. - 🎶 Festivals and Parades:
Belfast and Derry host spectacular parades with traditional music, Irish dancing, and colorful floats. Many UK cities like London, Manchester, and Glasgow also join in with their own celebrations. - 🍻 Pubs & Gatherings:
Irish pubs across the UK are packed with laughter, live bands, and pints of Guinness. It’s a day to celebrate with friends — responsibly, of course! - 🥧 Traditional Irish Foods:
From Irish stew to soda bread and colcannon, many enjoy comforting Irish dishes at home or in restaurants. - ☘️ Wearing Green:
Green symbolizes Ireland — “The Emerald Isle.” Wearing it (and even dyeing rivers or landmarks green!) has become a global tradition.
Fun Fact
Did you know? The first St Patrick’s Day parade didn’t happen in Ireland — it took place in New York City in 1762, organized by Irish soldiers serving in the British Army.
Ways to Celebrate in 2026
- Attend a local St Patrick’s Day parade or cultural event
- Enjoy traditional Irish dishes and live folk music
- Wear green or a shamrock pin to show your spirit
- Learn about the life of Saint Patrick and his legacy
- Visit Ireland or Northern Ireland for an authentic experience
