October Bank Holiday In Ireland
In Ireland, the October Bank Holiday is observed on the last Monday of October, and it gives workers a chance to have a three-day weekend. During this day, not only are banks closed, but so are many businesses.
This is quite convenient considering that Halloween usually occurs around this time as well. It gives all Irish workers a chance to spend more time with their families and have a little bit more fun in their lives.
This holiday has been observed since the late 1970s, and it was placed on the date on which it’s observed because this is around the time of the half-term school break, which covers All Saints’ Day on November 1st.
The History Of October Bank Holiday In Ireland
After Ireland joined the European Economic Community in 1973, the country had to create more public holidays to remain in compliance with EEC standards. In 1977, they decided to create the October Bank Holiday to come into compliance with the EEC. It’s been observed on the last Monday of October ever since.
Some Very Interesting Facts About Ireland
We’ve gathered together quite a collection of facts about Ireland that we feel everyone will appreciate and enjoy. Let’s browse through the following factoids before we continue on with how the October Bank Holiday is observed every year in Ireland.
- Ireland has two official languages: English and Irish.
- There are 32 different counties in Ireland.
- The country’s nickname is The Emerald Isle.
- Halloween actually originated in Ireland. It dates back to the Celtic Samhain Festival, which was observed over 2,000 years ago.
- Harp Lager, Smithwicks, and Guinness are three of Ireland’s most famous breweries.
- Bram Stoker was inspired to write ‘Dracula’ thanks to Irish tales of vampires.
- Ireland is home to over 20,000 castles.
- In County Cork, Ireland, there are almost 1,000 pubs.
- The oldest lighthouse in Europe is located in Ireland. It’s Hook Lighthouse, and it was built in 1172.
- The Gaelic Harp is the national symbol of Ireland.
Observing October Bank Holiday In Ireland
Because of this day’s close proximity to Halloween, many of its activities are conflated with that holiday. During this day, people spend time with their families, engage in typical Halloween activities, or simply enjoy their day off.
There are festivals such as the Púca Halloween Festival and the Derry Festival, parties, and other such events. People can spread the word about this month using the hashtag #OctoberBankHoliday on social media.