Festival Monday is marked every first Monday in August in the United Kingdom, with this year’s event taking place on August 7. It allows everyone to enjoy the summer vacation before the holiday season begins. Festival Monday is a public holiday and it’s worth noting that any public holiday is now referred to as a bank holiday. Most businesses and bank branches are closed on the designated day, with a few exceptions. Many people find enjoyment in attending festivals and carnivals. The Notting Hill Carnival and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival are two of the most anticipated holiday events.
History of Festival Monday
Festival Monday is a public holiday in the United Kingdom — the general public has the day off and schools and most businesses are closed. For many people, this day marks the end of their summer vacation before returning to work or school in the fall; for some others, it signifies the end of summer.During the three-day weekend, some people go on trips or take short vacations. Others see it as an additional opportunity to work in their gardens or make home improvements.The Notting Hill Carnival is held in London. This street festival is best known for its exuberant costumes, dancing, and steel drum bands’ music. The festival has been held every year since 1965 and was founded by Caribbean immigrants to the United Kingdom, particularly Trinidadians. It began as a protest against racism, as well as against poor working and living conditions.The Notting Hill Carnival is now a multicultural event attended by over two million people. It is thought to be the world’s second-largest street carnival. In the past, there was a lot of public disorder around the event, but it’s been a lot calmer in recent years.In Scotland, where local conditions rather than national laws determine whether organizations and businesses close for the day, there is more local variation. Public transportation systems frequently operate on a holiday schedule. Because this three-day weekend marks the end of the summer vacation period, there may be significant traffic congestion on roads and public transportation systems.
Festival Monday timeline
The Festival Monday holiday is observed for the first time.
The Holidays Act is introduced by Sir John Lubbock.
Caribbean immigrants organize the first Notting Hill Festival to protest poor living conditions and racism.
New Year's Day is added to England's list of Bank Holidays.
Festival Monday FAQs
What is the summer bank holiday?
It is a time that gives everyone a chance to enjoy the last summer holidays before a continuous grind until Christmas starts.
What's the most important UK festival?
Diwali in Leicester is the U.K.’s most famous religious festival. Attendees can take in breathtaking fireworks, music shows, and dance performances.
How many festivals are there in the UK?
There are several notable festivals in the U.K., covering a wide range of genres. As of 2020, there were about 241 recorded festivals in the U.K.
Festival Monday Activities
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Get out in the sun
Enjoy a few days of summer before the arrival of fall and winter. Get some much-needed vitamin D from the sun and nature. Instead of eating indoors, go for a walk or a picnic in the park, or try dining outside.
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Attend local fairs and carnivals
This is the time of year when some of the best shows take place. Plan your schedule so that you don't miss them. Find out about the local festivals in your locality.
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Start the party on Sunday
Monday holidays are uncommon. By staying up late the night before, you can make the most of this occasion. Look for a rave in your area, or simply invite your friends over.
5 Facts About Festivals
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Only for members
The Glastonbury Festival is among the most prominent festivals in the world and hosts about 175,000 attendees yearly.
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Misplaced and found
Festivals have been around longer than you think; they’ve been around for over 3,000 years.
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Ancient raves
Music festivals were nearly as popular in ancient Greece as they are today
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Sacrificial lamb
Ancient festivals would sometimes include a sacrifice.
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V.V.I.P.
To attend the Freerotation festival in Wales, you must be invited by an existing member.
Why We Love Festival Monday
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It's a tribute to fleeting moments
Many of us understand the significance of special occasions in our lives. We might miss them because of work or school. However, public holidays give us the extra time we need to enjoy the day with our loved ones to the fullest by commemorating the amazing but fleeting moments in our daily lives.
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It’s a celebration of newness
Who doesn't enjoy a vacation? We most emphatically do! Public holidays are days of rest, relaxation, and the opportunity to unwind. These activities can not only bring new life into your life but also mean spending quality time with friends and family.
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Numerous festivals to attend
A lot of street fairs and cultural activities are held around Festival Monday. You have the opportunity to participate in numerous festivities, ranging from a street dance festival to a Caribbean festival.
Festival Monday dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | August 1 | Monday |
| 2023 | August 7 | Monday |
| 2024 | August 5 | Monday |
| 2025 | August 4 | Monday |
| 2026 | August 3 | Monday |
