St Patrick's Day
St Patrick's Day is a Northern Ireland bank holiday observed on 17 March. It is the feast day of Ireland's patron saint and is also celebrated, though without bank holiday status, across the rest of the UK.
When is St Patrick's Day?
| Year | Date | Day | Detail |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 17 March 2026 | Tuesday | St Patrick's Day 2026 |
| 2027 | 17 March 2027 | Wednesday | St Patrick's Day 2027 |
| 2028 | 17 March 2028 | Friday | St Patrick's Day 2028 |
History
St Patrick is one of the patron saints of Ireland, traditionally credited with bringing Christianity to the island in the 5th century. Across the island of Ireland, 17 March has been a religious feast day for centuries. Northern Ireland adopted it as a designated bank holiday in 1903, well before partition, and has continued to observe it.
The Republic of Ireland also observes 17 March as a public holiday — a rare example of a holiday shared across the Irish border.
Traditions
Parades, Guinness, the wearing of green, and shamrock are the most visible traditions. The Belfast St Patrick’s Day Carnival is the largest official celebration in Northern Ireland, while Downpatrick (where Saint Patrick is traditionally said to be buried) also holds significant events.
Observance
Banks, government offices and the Belfast Stock Exchange observe the closure. Most retail and hospitality is open and very busy — pubs in particular do exceptional trade. Schools and universities are typically closed.
Where it is observed
St Patrick's Day is a bank holiday in Northern Ireland.