Do we get a bank holiday for the Coronation and when is it?
The historic event is almost upon us.
The coronation of King Charles III is drawing closer, with the big day set to take place on May 6 2023.
Plans for the celebration are being unveiled now with just a few weeks to go, with the service being described as one which will ‘reflect the monarch’s role today and look towards the future, while being rooted in longstanding traditions and pageantry,’ according to the palace.
The coronation will the first ceremony of its kind since 1953, when Charles’ mother Queen Elizabeth II was crowned – and you can expect several days’ worth of celebrations to mark the occasion.
Other highlights are set to include communities uniting for the Big Lunch – street parties being held across the UK – as well as a Coronation Concert on May 7.
But will we be getting an extra bank holiday for the coronation – and if so when can we look forward to it?
Do we get a bank holiday for the Coronation and when is it?
The good news is that yes, we are getting a bank holiday to mark the Coronation.
This is in addition to the regular May Bank Holiday which this year falls on Monday May 1 – meaning you get two long weekends in a row.
The Government confirmed the news in November, saying that the additional break will fall on Monday May 8, two days after the Coronation.
It came in the wake of calls to either move the early May bank holiday from May 1 to coincide with the coronation weekend or to declare an extra day off.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said at the time that the bank holiday will form a chance for families and communities to come together to celebrate, calling it ‘a unique moment for our country’.
‘In recognition of this historic occasion, I am pleased to announce an additional bank holiday for the whole United Kingdom next year,’ Mr Sunak said.
‘I look forward to seeing people come together to celebrate and pay tribute to King Charles III by taking part in local and national events across the country in his honour.’
Will we get a day off work?
As with all bank holidays, many businesses are likely to close for the day.
However, this may be at the discretion of employers depending on where you work – as a lot of places, such as shops, generally remain open on a bank holiday.
While most shops and retail businesses closed for the Queen’s funeral in September, most have yet to confirm their plans for May 8.
It’s possible some may change their opening hours while others – given the occasion – may decide to close their doors completely. You should check with your employer if you are unsure what their plans are for the day.
The Coronation celebrations are continuing on May 8 with The Big Help Out, an event paying tribute to His Majesty’s public service.
According to the Palace, The Big Help Out will give people across the country the chance to try volunteering for themselves, joining work which is being undertaken to support local areas.
The aim is to unite communities and create a lasting legacy from the historic Coronation weekend.
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