UK Calendar May 2025: List of Holidays, Festivals, State Events, International Days, and Celebrations

2025 U.K. Calendar - Full List of Bank Holidays, Observances and Celebrations Whether you are planning a vacation, organizing events, or simply looking to make the most of your time off, this comprehensive guide provides all the ...

May in the United Kingdom brings more than blooming gardens and brighter skies. It’s a season steeped in pageantry, protest, poetry, and celebration. Across the four nations, communities come together for bank holidays, literary gatherings, cultural showcases, and national days of remembrance. Whether you're planning a getaway, attending a royal-themed exhibition, or joining a local fete, this guide highlights the essential holidays, festivals, and events shaping the UK’s calendar in May 2025.

Read more: Full List of Festivals in the UK 2025: Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall

1. Public Holidays in the UK – May 2025

Early May Bank Holiday – Monday, May 5, 2025

Maypole dancing used to be a traditional activity during the May Day Bank Holiday weekend. Not so much now, but we have still found ten things to do and places to go in the Mansfield area. Photo: Submitted

Also referred to as May Day, this is a public holiday celebrated across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Historically tied to labour rights and the celebration of spring, this day features:

• Maypole and Morris dancing in rural villages

• Union-led rallies in major cities like London, Glasgow, and Cardiff

• Street markets, community events, and family picnics in parks

• Some universities and colleges hold debates or panels on workers’ rights and history

Spring Bank Holiday – Monday, May 26, 2025

Spring Bank Holiday

Held on the last Monday in May, Spring Bank Holiday is typically seen as the kickoff to summer activities in the UK. Common features include:

• Coastal town festivities, including Brighton and Bournemouth beach events

• Food festivals, such as the Great British Food Festival in Cheshire

• Seasonal openings of heritage homes and gardens managed by the National Trust

• A boost in domestic tourism as families travel during the long weekend

2. State Events and National Observances

VE Day – Thursday, May 8, 2025

Victory in Europe Day marks the end of WWII in Europe in 1945. Although not a statutory holiday, it is widely commemorated with:

• Nationwide two-minute silences at 11:00 am

• Military parades and veterans’ marches in cities like London, Manchester, and Portsmouth

• Special BBC and ITV programming featuring wartime documentaries and interviews

• School assemblies and lessons dedicated to WWII remembrance

Coronation Anniversary of King Charles III – Wednesday, May 7, 2025

King Charles' coronation anniversary

The second anniversary of King Charles III’s coronation in 2023. Though not an official public holiday, the date may include:

• Reflections on the King's role in national life

• Royal-themed exhibitions in locations like Windsor Castle or the Royal Mews

• News coverage revisiting key moments from the coronation ceremony

• Charity events held in honour of the royal family's service initiatives

Local Elections – Thursday, May 1, 2025

Scheduled elections in parts of England and Wales. This civic event contributes to grassroots democracy through:

• Local council campaigns

• Community-led debates and forums

• Voter registration drives supported by local authorities

National Walking Month – All of May

Promoted by Living Streets and other health charities, this campaign encourages walking for fitness, sustainability, and mental well-being. Events include:

• Organised walking groups for all ages and mobility levels

• "Walk to Work Week" and "Walk to School Week"

• City tours promoting architectural heritage and urban walking routes

3. Major UK Festivals and Cultural Events – May 2025

Brighton Festival – May 3–25, 2025 (Brighton, England)

This award-winning multi-arts festival features:

• Commissioned world premieres from theatre and dance companies

• Free street performances across Brighton seafront and Pavilion Gardens

• Special family programming and children’s theatre

• Guest-curated exhibitions on social and political themes

Hay Festival – May 22–June 1, 2025 (Hay-on-Wye, Wales)

Hay Festival

Known as the "Woodstock of the mind," the Hay Festival is a global celebration of ideas and storytelling. Highlights:

• Keynote lectures by Nobel laureates and award-winning authors

• Writing masterclasses, poetry readings, and youth programming

• Performances from musicians and stand-up comedians

Chelsea Flower Show – May 20–24, 2025 (London)

Organised by the Royal Horticultural Society, this iconic event includes:

• Breathtaking show gardens created by top designers

• Royal family appearances and charity preview days

• Sustainability-themed gardens focusing on climate resilience

• Gardening product showcases, talks, and competitions

GlastonBudget Music Festival – May 23–25, 2025 (Leicester)

Celebrated as the UK’s premier tribute band festival. Features include:

• Performances replicating icons from Queen to ABBA

• Festival camping and themed fancy dress contests

• Independent food vendors and local craft beer stands

Norfolk & Norwich Festival – May 9–25, 2025 (Norfolk)

One of the UK’s oldest arts festivals. Offers:

• International performing arts troupes

• Interactive public installations

• Literary events, jazz performances, and avant-garde theatre

4. International and Global Observances Recognised in the UK

May 1 – International Workers' Day

Labor Day is often used as a day to defend workers’ rights.

Often commemorated through public rallies and campaigns for fair wages, union representation, and workplace equity.

May 3 – World Press Freedom Day

Universities, journalism schools, and media outlets mark the day with:

• Public lectures and journalist roundtables

• Panels on misinformation, censorship, and free expression

May 5 – African World Heritage Day

Museums such as the British Museum host special exhibits and educational content focused on African culture and preservation.

May 8 – World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day

British Red Cross hosts events including:

• First aid demonstrations

• Humanitarian aid exhibitions

• Blood donation appeals

May 12 – International Nurses Day

Supported by NHS Trusts and health departments with:

• Social media tributes

• Recognition ceremonies for outstanding nurses

• Fundraisers for nursing organisations

May 15 – International Day of Families

Family service organisations highlight:

• Family mental health resources

• Domestic abuse awareness campaigns

• Parenting workshops

May 17 – International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia

LGBTQ+ groups and local councils collaborate on:

• Pride marches and candlelight vigils

• Educational school programs

• Social media campaigns to combat discrimination

May 20 – World Bee Day

Celebrated by schools, councils, and conservationists through:

• Bee-friendly gardening tutorials

• Pollinator protection campaigns

• Beekeeping demonstrations

May 22 – International Day for Biological Diversity

Environmental charities partner with:

• Nature reserves and zoos for biodiversity education

• Climate panels and rewilding project tours

May 31 – World No Tobacco Day

Public Health England and local NHS units offer:

• Free stop-smoking kits

• Educational materials in schools and clinics

• Testimonials from former smokers

5. Weekly and Monthly Observances in the UK – May 2025

• National Walking Month (May 1–31) – Focused on increasing physical activity and reducing carbon emissions through daily walking.

• Mental Health Awareness Week (May 12–18) – Led by the Mental Health Foundation, featuring nationwide mental wellness campaigns.

• Dementia Action Week (May 19–25) – Alzheimer’s Society and Age UK collaborate on memory walks and community talks.

• Deaf Awareness Week (May 5–11) – Promotes inclusion and accessibility in education, media, and services.

• Local and Community History Month (All of May) – Museums, archives, and historical societies run lectures, tours, and exhibits.

• National Share-a-Story Month (All of May) – Encourages children’s literacy through storytelling workshops and book fairs.

• Skin Cancer Awareness Month (All of May) – Dermatologists and charities promote sun safety and skin checks.

6. Daily Holidays and Observances in the UK – May 2025

May 1

• International Workers' Day – A day to honour workers and promote labour rights. Often marked by rallies and union-led events.

• Local Election Day (varies by region) – Citizens in parts of England and Wales head to the polls for local government elections.

• School Principals’ Day – Recognising the leadership and contributions of school headteachers across the UK.

May 2

• World Tuna Day – Highlighting the importance of sustainable fishing and marine conservation.

• Brothers and Sisters Day – A lighthearted observance celebrating sibling bonds.

• National Truffle Day – A favourite for chocolate lovers, celebrating the sweet confection.

May 3

• World Press Freedom Day – Promotes freedom of expression and defends the rights of journalists.

• Garden Meditation Day – Encourages mindfulness and relaxation in outdoor spaces.

• Paranormal Day – A fun observance for fans of ghost stories and mysteries.

May 4

• Star Wars Day – Fans celebrate the iconic franchise (“May the Fourth Be With You”).

• Firefighters’ Memorial Day – Honours UK firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty.

• Bird Day – Promotes awareness of bird species and conservation efforts.

May 5

• Early May Bank Holiday – Celebrated with outdoor events and May Day traditions.

• African World Heritage Day – Focuses on preserving African heritage and culture.

• Cartoonist Day – Recognises cartoonists and comic creators.

May 6

• International No Diet Day – Promotes body positivity and freedom from diet culture.

• National Beverage Day – Encourages people to enjoy their favourite drinks.

• Start of National Nurses Week (UK observance) – Celebrating nursing professionals leading up to International Nurses Day.

May 7

• Coronation Anniversary (King Charles III) – Marks two years since King Charles III’s coronation.

• Occupational Safety and Health Day – Promotes safe workplace practices.

• Roast Leg of Lamb Day – A quirky culinary celebration.

May 8

• VE Day – Commemorates the end of WWII in Europe.

• World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day – Recognises humanitarian workers and global aid efforts.

• Iris Day – Celebrates the spring bloom of irises in UK gardens.

May 9

• Start of Norfolk & Norwich Festival – Launch of one of the UK’s oldest arts festivals.

• Lost Sock Memorial Day – A humorous day acknowledging those mysteriously vanished socks.

• National Moscato Day – Celebrates the sweet Italian wine.

May 10

• Clean Your Room Day – Encouraging cleanliness and decluttering.

• World Lupus Day – Raises awareness about lupus and its effects.

• Stay Up All Night Day – A novelty observance often embraced by students and creatives.

May 11

• Twilight Zone Day – Celebrating the famous sci-fi series and imagination.

• World Migratory Bird Day – Highlights the importance of bird migration and conservation.

• Eat What You Want Day – A fun food-themed observance.

May 12

• International Nurses Day – Honours the contributions of nurses worldwide.

• Limerick Day – Celebrates the whimsical poetry form and the birthday of Edward Lear.

• ME/CFS Awareness Day – Brings attention to chronic fatigue syndrome.

May 13

• Frog Jumping Day – Inspired by Mark Twain’s short story, it's a day for fun competitions.

• Hummus Day – Celebrates the beloved Middle Eastern dip.

• Receptionist Day – Recognises the frontline role of receptionists.

May 14

• Dance Like a Chicken Day – Encourages laughter through silly dance moves.

• Stars and Stripes Forever Day – Celebrates John Philip Sousa’s famous march.

• Decency Day – A day to promote civility and kindness.

May 15

• International Day of Families – Focuses on family stability and support systems.

• Kangaroo Care Awareness Day – Encourages skin-to-skin contact in neonatal care.

• Chocolate Chip Day – A sweet celebration of a favourite ingredient.

May 16

• Love a Tree Day – Supports reforestation and tree appreciation.

• National Drawing Day – Encourages creativity through sketching and illustration.

• Bike to Work Day – Promotes eco-friendly commuting.

May 17

• International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOTB) – Advocates for LGBTQ+ rights.

• World Baking Day – A celebration for home bakers and patisserie fans.

• Pack Rat Day – Light-hearted encouragement to declutter.

May 18

• Museum Day UK – Free or discounted entry to many national and local museums.

• AIDS Vaccine Day – Raises awareness for HIV research.

• No Dirty Dishes Day – A gentle reminder to tidy the kitchen.

May 19

• World IBD Day – Brings visibility to inflammatory bowel disease.

• Plant Something Day – Encourages gardening and growing food.

• May Ray Day – Celebrates the return of sunny days.

May 20

• World Bee Day – Highlights the importance of bees to ecosystems.

• Pick Strawberries Day – Invites families to enjoy local berry picking.

• Weights & Measures Day – Commemorates the Metre Convention and global standardisation.

May 21

• World Day for Cultural Diversity – Promotes respect and understanding among cultures.

• Tea Day UK – A celebration of Britain’s most iconic beverage.

• Waitstaff Appreciation Day – Recognises hospitality workers.

May 22

• International Day for Biological Diversity – Encourages protection of global biodiversity.

• Buy a Musical Instrument Day – Promotes learning music.

• Maritime Day – Honours naval and maritime history.

May 23

• World Turtle Day – Advocates for turtle conservation.

• Lucky Penny Day – A whimsical nod to good luck charms.

• GlastonBudget Festival Begins – Launch of the UK’s leading tribute music event.

May 24

• Escargot Day – A culinary celebration of French cuisine.

• International Tiara Day – Encourages fun and personal confidence.

• Scavenger Hunt Day – Great for family or community group activities.

May 25

• Towel Day – Tribute to Douglas Adams and his fans.

• National Wine Day – Encourages wine appreciation.

• Tap Dance Day – Celebrates the rhythmic dance form.

May 26

• Spring Bank Holiday – A day of leisure with local events and travel.

• Paper Airplane Day – Playful and creative fun for all ages.

• Blueberry Cheesecake Day – A dessert-lover’s delight.

May 27

• Sunscreen Awareness Day – Emphasises skin protection.

• Cellophane Tape Day – Celebrates a sticky office essential.

• Nothing to Fear Day – A motivational observance.

May 28

• Hamburger Day – Celebrates one of the world’s favourite fast foods.

• Amnesty International Day – Highlights human rights advocacy.

• Brisket Day – For lovers of slow-cooked meats.

May 29

• UN Peacekeepers Day – Honours those who serve in peace missions.

• Paperclip Day – Appreciates the small but mighty office tool.

• Learn About Composting Day – Promotes sustainable waste practices.

May 30

• Creativity Day – Celebrates artistic expression and invention.

• Water

** a Flower Day** – Encourages small acts of care and mindfulness.

• Loomis Day – Commemorates early telecommunications innovation.

May 31

• World No Tobacco Day – Campaigns to reduce tobacco use.

• Macaroon Day – Celebrates the sweet almond-based treat.

• Save Your Hearing Day – Promotes ear health and sound safety.

Conclusion

May 2025 is one of the most culturally and civically active months in the UK calendar. With two public holidays, national remembrance days, international causes, and world-renowned festivals, there’s no shortage of opportunities to participate, reflect, and celebrate. Whether you’re passionate about nature, literature, health, or history, the UK's May calendar offers something meaningful every day.

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