New Year's Day
Jan 1 – 4
4days off
Thu1★
Fri2↓ off
Sat3·
Sun4·
Take 1 day off → 4-day weekend
Long weekends
Long Weekends in Ireland 2026
6Long weekends
2Bridge days
26Total days off
2Vacation days to take
Take 2 vacation days this year and enjoy 26 days off in total.
February Bank Holiday
Jan 31 – Feb 2
3days off
Sat31·
Sun1·
Mon2★
Natural 3-day break — no vacation needed.
Saint Patrick's Day
Mar 14 – 17
4days off
Sat14·
Sun15·
Mon16↓ off
Tue17★
Take 1 day off → 4-day weekend
Easter Monday
Apr 4 – 6
3days off
Sat4·
Sun5·
Mon6★
Natural 3-day break — no vacation needed.
First Monday in May
May 2 – 4
3days off
Sat2·
Sun3·
Mon4★
Natural 3-day break — no vacation needed.
June Bank Holiday
May 30 – Jun 1
3days off
Sat30·
Sun31·
Mon1★
Natural 3-day break — no vacation needed.
August Bank Holiday
Aug 1 – 3
3days off
Sat1·
Sun2·
Mon3★
Natural 3-day break — no vacation needed.
October Bank Holiday
Oct 24 – 26
3days off
Sat24·
Sun25·
Mon26★
Natural 3-day break — no vacation needed.
Christmas
Dec 25 – 27
3days off
Fri25★
Sat26·
Sun27·
3-day holiday period.
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Frequently asked questions
What is a long weekend in Ireland?
A long weekend in Ireland occurs when a public holiday falls on a Monday or Friday, giving you a 3-day weekend without using any vacation days.
What is a bridge day?
A bridge day is a working day between a public holiday and a weekend. Taking that one day off creates a stretch of 4 or more consecutive days off. For example, if a holiday falls on Thursday, taking Friday off gives you a 4-day weekend.
How many long weekend opportunities are there in Ireland in 2026?
In 2026, Ireland has 8 vacation extension opportunities — a combination of natural long weekends and bridge days.
When are the best long weekends to travel in Ireland in 2026?
The best long weekends for travel in Ireland depend on the season and your destination. Spring and autumn bridge days often offer the best mix of good weather and fewer crowds.