Christmas Day
Nationwide public holiday in United Kingdom
Dates
| Year | Date | Weekday | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 25 December | Friday | Nationwide |
| 2027 | 25 December | Saturday | Nationwide |
| 2027 | 27 December | Monday | Christmas Day (observed) Observed day off for Christmas Day (Sat 25 Dec) |
Observed days are days off given instead of, or as well as, the holiday's own date, for example when it falls on a weekend or the law moves it to a Monday.
Where it applies
Everywhere in United Kingdom.
Is it a day off?
Yes. It is an official public holiday, so most employees have the day off. Government offices, schools and many businesses are usually closed; shops, restaurants and public transport may keep reduced hours. Check local announcements for opening times.
Make it longer
Fri 25 Dec – Mon 28 Dec is a 4-day weekend with no leave needed.
Plan more breaks with the leave planner.
Typical weather in London around 25 December: high 9°C (48°F), low 5°C (40°F), rain on 46% of days.
Averages for 2015–2024, 3 days either side of the date, for the area around London. Past averages, not a forecast.
Forecast for Friday 25 December in London: (MET Norway)
About Christmas Day
Christmas Day in the United Kingdom, on 25 December, combines the Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus with a number of customs that developed or became popular in Britain, many of them during the Victorian era. It is one of the main family holidays of the year and is a public holiday in all four nations of the UK.
Traditions
Families typically exchange presents and share a roast dinner, often turkey, followed by Christmas pudding. Christmas crackers are pulled at the table, and the monarch's Christmas message is broadcast in the afternoon. Many people attend church services, including midnight services the night before.
Editorial summary by Public Holidays World. Dates on this page come from the data source; customs vary by region and family.
Coming up next in United Kingdom
Saturday, 26 December 2026
Christmas Day in other countries
More for United Kingdom
Holiday dates are for general information and can change. Official government announcements take precedence.