St Andrew's Day in the United Kingdom

St Andrew's Day - Dates

This year

Name	Date	Holiday Type	Countries
St Andrew's Day	Sun, 30 Nov 2025	Bank holiday	SCT	Add

Next year

Name	Date	Holiday Type	Countries
St Andrew's Day	Mon, 30 Nov 2026	Bank holiday	SCT	Add

Last year

Name	Date	Holiday Type	Countries
St Andrew's Day	Sat, 30 Nov 2024	Bank holiday	SCT	Add

Are Businesses Closed?

St Andrew's Day is a bank holiday in Scotland. Most businesses are closed. However, business is as usual in other parts of the UK.

Are Schools Closed?

Schools in Scotland are closed as the day is a bank holiday. Schools operate normally in other regions.

Where the celebration comes from (brief history)

St Andrew was one of the twelve apostles in the New Testament. He became associated with Scotland in the medieval period and, over centuries, his feast day has become an occasion to celebrate Scottish identity and culture. The Saltire, Scotland's national flag, is said to be linked to the cross of St Andrew. Learn more about St Andrew.

How St Andrew's Day is observed in Scotland

In Scotland the day is a focus for national culture. Expect to see:

• Public concerts and ceilidhs - lively traditional music and dancing in halls and community centres.
• Torchlight processions and civic events in some towns and cities, often ending with local performances or fireworks.
• Special food and drink menus featuring haggis, local seafood, whisky and regional produce.
• Educational programmes in schools and cultural venues that focus on Scottish history, the Saltire and local traditions.

Although St Andrew's Day is a bank holiday in Scotland, employers are not automatically required to close business - many organisations will timetable events or give staff the option of time off. When 30 November is on a weekend, a substitute weekday bank holiday is typically given.

How the day looks in England, Wales and Northern Ireland

Outside Scotland the tone is usually quieter but respectful. Observances typically include:

• Community and cultural events organised by Scottish societies, universities and civic groups - for example talks, concerts and gatherings celebrating Scottish culture.
• In the rest of the United Kingdom, the British Union Flag is flown.
• Restaurants and pubs may offer Scottish-themed menus and whisky tastings.
• Schools or civic centres sometimes hold lessons or displays about St Andrew and Scotland's history.

In England, Wales and Northern Ireland St Andrew's Day is not a bank holiday, and most businesses operate as normal. Local Scottish communities and cultural organisations are the main drivers of public events.

Traditions and symbols

Key traditions and symbols you will encounter on St Andrew's Day include:

• The Saltire - displayed on public buildings, homes and in parades.
• Ceilidhs - social dances where everyone can join in the steps and have fun.
• Bagpipes and fiddle music - central to many concerts and street events.
• Food and drink - haggis, tatties and neeps, seafood, and single malts are commonly highlighted.

Why St Andrew's Day matters today

St Andrew's Day gives people an annual moment to reflect on Scottish identity, language and culture. It is also an opportunity for communities across the UK to share Scottish arts, food and history with visitors and neighbours. Modern celebrations mix formal civic events with popular community gatherings, making the day inclusive for families, schools and tourists.

Practical tips if you plan to celebrate or attend events

• Check local council or venue pages for event times and any ticketing - some major events are ticketed to manage crowds.
• Wear warm layers - the day is in late November and weather is often cold and wet in parts of the UK.
• Book ceilidh or restaurant tickets in advance if you want to join in - popular events fill quickly in cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow.
• If you are travelling in Scotland around 30 November, check bank holiday substitution rules and public transport timetables as services may be adjusted.

FAQ

Is St Andrew's Day a public holiday across the whole UK?

No - St Andrew's Day is a bank holiday in Scotland only. England, Wales and Northern Ireland do not observe it as a bank holiday. When 30 November falls on a weekend, Scotland usually observes a substitute weekday holiday.

What is a ceilidh?

A ceilidh is a social gathering with traditional Scottish music and dance. A caller explains the steps, so newcomers can join in the fun.

How can I take part if I am not Scottish?

Everyone is welcome. Look for local events run by cultural centres or councils, try a ceilidh for a lively night out, or enjoy Scottish food and music at community celebrations.