Ireland Public Holidays 2025
Ireland has 11 public holidays and 3 observances in 2025. Explore the full holiday calendar below.
All Holidays
| Date | Day | Name | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wed | New Year's Day | public | |
| Mon | St. Brigid’s Day | public | |
| Mon | St. Patrick’s Day | public | |
| Sun | Mother's Day | observance | |
| Fri | Good Friday | bank | |
| Sun | Easter Sunday | public | |
| Mon | Easter Monday | public | |
| Mon | May Day | public | |
| Mon | First Monday in June | public | |
| Sun | Father's Day | observance | |
| Mon | First Monday in August | public | |
| Mon | October Bank Holiday | public | |
| Thu | Christmas Day | public | |
| Fri | St. Stephen's Day | public |
About Ireland's Holidays
Ireland's holidays mix national, public, and cultural traditions. Some are religious, like those tied to Christian seasons, while others celebrate Irish identity, history, and community. Many bring parades, church services, family meals, and time off work for everyone.
Public and bank holidays are set by the government. They include New Year and Christmas, seasonal days in spring and summer, and a big national day in March that honors Irish heritage. Local festivals such as Halloween and St Brigid show older folk customs and seasonal celebrations that people still enjoy today.
Holiday Traditions
Holidays in Ireland (IE) mix old customs and modern fun. People often remember saints, seasons, or national history with songs, stories, music and dancing. Symbols like green, shamrocks and lighted candles appear in homes and towns.
Food is central. Families share warming stews, soda bread, cakes and sweet treats. Meals bring relatives together for long chats, laughter and passing down recipes. Children often learn songs and dances from grandparents during these gatherings.
Public celebrations include parades, music sessions in pubs and fireworks at big events. Towns decorate streets and community centers host dances and concerts. The mood is friendly, welcoming and full of pride in Irish culture and heritage.
Travel Tips
Ireland gets busy around the holiday season. Shops and restaurants in big towns stay open but many small businesses close for a few days. Check opening hours before you go to avoid surprises.
Public transport runs on limited schedules on public holidays. Trains and buses can be reduced or replaced by special timetables. Book longer trips in advance and allow extra time for connections.
Airports and ferry ports are crowded around holidays. Arrive earlier than usual and confirm your bookings. Rental cars book up fast, especially near tourist spots and airports.
Bring warm rainproof clothing and expect shorter daylight. Have printed or saved reservations and local emergency numbers. Plan flexible days and enjoy the festive atmosphere.