UK HOLIDAYS

EX 1

1. Bank holidays: Bank holidays are public holidays designated by the government, during which
banks and most businesses are closed. These holidays are intended to provide workers with a
day off and often create long weekends. Bank holidays are not limited to specific religious or
national events but are typically spread throughout the year to mark various occasions or
important historical events. Examples of bank holidays in the UK include New Year's Day, Easter
Monday, and Christmas Day.

2. Religious holidays: Religious holidays in the UK are associated with specific religious traditions
and are observed by members of those faith communities. These holidays are significant for
followers of various religions and often include special religious services, ceremonies, and
customs. Some of the prominent religious holidays celebrated in the UK include Christmas
(celebrated by Christians), Eid al-Fitr (celebrated by Muslims at the end of Ramadan), Diwali
(celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains), and Passover (celebrated by Jewish communities).

3. National holidays: National holidays are observed to commemorate important events and
achievements that are significant to the nation as a whole. These holidays are not limited to
religious observances and are meant to celebrate the country's culture, history, or important
milestones. For example, in the UK, the national holiday of St. George's Day is celebrated on
April 23rd to honor the patron saint of England. Other national holidays include St. Andrew's
Day (Scotland), St. David's Day (Wales), and St. Patrick's Day (Ireland).

4. Special observances with historical background: These holidays are dedicated to remembering
and honoring specific historical events, people, or causes. They are often associated with
significant moments in history that have shaped the nation or influenced society. Examples of
such holidays in the UK include Remembrance Day (November 11th), which commemorates the
members of the armed forces who lost their lives in conflicts, and Armistice Day (also known as
Poppy Day), which marks the end of World War I. These observances are typically marked by
ceremonies, parades, and acts of remembrance.

Bank holidays:

 2 January – Bank Holiday

 1 May – May Day Holiday

 first, second, or third Saturday in June – Queen Elizabeth II’s Official birthday

Religious holidays:

 6 January – Epiphany

 47 days before Easter Sunday (Tuesday before Lent) – Shrove Tuesday

 Easter Day

National holidays:

 1 March – St David’s Day

 17 March – St Patrick’s Day

 23 April – St George’s Day

 30 November – St Andrew’s Day

  25 December – Christmas Day

 26 December – Boxing Day

Special observances with historical background:

 25 January – Burn’s Night

 14 February – St Valentine’s Day

 fourth Sunday in Lent – Mother’s Day

 Thursday before Easter Sunday – Maundy Thursday (Holy Thursday)

 The Friday before Easter Sunday – Good Friday

 11 November – Remembrance Day (Armistice Day)

 November – The State Opening of Parliament

 31 October – Halloween Night

 5 November – Guy Fawkes Night or Bonfire Night

 31 December - New Year’s Eve, Hogmanay in Scotland

EX 2

1. England:

St. George's Day (23 April): St. George is the patron saint of England, and this day is dedicated to
celebrating English culture and heritage. The day may include parades, festivals, and events
showcasing traditional English customs, such as Morris dancing, feasting on English cuisine, and
wearing the St. George's Cross flag.

2. Scotland:

St. Andrew's Day (30 November): St. Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland, and this day is a
celebration of Scottish identity and culture. Festivities often include traditional Scottish music
and dances like the ceilidh, bagpipe performances, wearing tartan clothing, and consuming
traditional Scottish dishes. Many communities also organize events, parades, and fireworks
displays.

3. Wales:

St. David's Day (1 March): St. David is the patron saint of Wales, and his day is celebrated to
honor Welsh culture and heritage. Celebrations often involve wearing traditional Welsh attire,
such as daffodils or leeks (national symbols), and taking part in Eisteddfodau, which are cultural
festivals showcasing Welsh literature, music, poetry, and singing. Schools and communities may
organize parades and concerts.

4. Northern Ireland:

Northern Ireland does not have a designated national holiday. However, significant events such
as the Battle of the Boyne (12 July) and St. Patrick's Day (17 March) are celebrated with parades,
marches, and community events. These celebrations often reflect the cultural and historical
significance of the events, with participants wearing traditional costumes and engaging in music,
dance, and other cultural activities.
EX 3

1. Epiphany - i. Remembering the visit of the three Wise Men to the infant Jesus

2. Shrove Tuesday - j. Indulging in the kinds of food forbidden during Lent, o. Pancake races

3. Maundy Thursday - k. Remembering the Last Supper

4. Good Friday - m. Fasting, d. A Vigil service in churches

5. Easter Day - b. Egg rolling and egg jarping

6. Christmas Day - l. Children hanging their stockings up ready for presents, e. Singing carols, h.
Eating plum pudding

7. Boxing Day - a. Family gathering at the home of parents or grandparents, g. The end of the
Christmas festivals when the decorations are taken down, n. Broadcasting the Queen's message
to the people

EX 4

1. St. Valentine's Day: Historical Background: St. Valentine's Day is named after Saint Valentine, a
Christian martyr who lived during the 3rd century. The exact origins and historical details of St.
Valentine are uncertain, but the day has become associated with love and romance over time.

Modern Traditions: On St. Valentine's Day, which falls on February 14th, people in many countries
exchange cards, gifts, and expressions of affection with their loved ones. Common traditions include
sending Valentine's Day cards, giving flowers (particularly roses), chocolates, and planning romantic
gestures such as candlelit dinners or special dates.

2. Mother's Day (Mothering Sunday): Historical Background: Mother's Day, also known as
Mothering Sunday, has historical roots in the Christian tradition. It originally began as a day to
honor the "mother church" and later evolved to become a day to honor mothers.

Modern Traditions: Mother's Day is typically celebrated on the fourth Sunday in Lent (three weeks
before Easter Sunday). It is a day to honor and show appreciation for mothers and mother figures.
Common traditions include giving cards, flowers, and gifts to mothers, spending quality time with them,
and preparing special meals or treats. It is also a time for children to express their gratitude and love for
their mothers.

3. April Fools' Day: Historical Background: The exact origins of April Fools' Day are unclear, but it
has been celebrated for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Europe, possibly
connected to the transition from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar in the 16th
century.

Modern Traditions: April Fools' Day, observed on April 1st, is a day for pranks, hoaxes, and practical
jokes. People play tricks on each other, share fake news or stories, and engage in light-hearted humor. It
is common to see individuals and media outlets play pranks on others, often revealing the joke at the
end of the day with the phrase "April Fools!".

4. May Day: Historical Background: May Day has ancient roots and is associated with various
historical and cultural traditions. It is a celebration of the arrival of spring and the fertility of the
land. May Day has historical connections to pagan festivals, such as the Celtic festival of Beltane.

Modern Traditions: In modern times, May Day is often celebrated with festivities and traditions that vary
across different regions and countries. Common May Day customs include dancing around a maypole,
crowning a May Queen, Morris dancing, and the giving of May baskets filled with flowers. It is a day to
embrace the arrival of spring, often marked by outdoor activities and community gatherings.

5. Halloween Night: Historical Background: Halloween has its roots in ancient Celtic festivals,
particularly the Gaelic festival of Samhain. It marked the end of the harvest season and the
beginning of winter, when it was believed that the boundary between the living and the dead
was blurred.

Modern Traditions: Halloween, celebrated on October 31st, has evolved into a holiday associated with
costumes, trick-or-treating, and spooky themes. Modern traditions include dressing up in costumes,
carving pumpkins into jack-o'-lanterns, decorating homes with spooky themes, and children going door-
to-door to collect candy. Halloween parties, haunted houses, and watching horror movies are also
popular activities.

6. Guy Fawkes Night or Bonfire Night: Historical Background: Guy Fawkes Night, also known as
Bonfire Night, commemorates the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605 in England. The plot aimed to
assassinate King James I by blowing up the Houses of Parliament. Guy Fawkes was a key figure in
the conspiracy.

Modern Traditions: On November 5th , Guy Fawkes Night is celebrated with bonfires, fireworks, and the
burning of effigies, traditionally representing Guy Fawkes. People gather around bonfires, often with a
large communal bonfire and fireworks displays. Effigies of Guy Fawkes are sometimes created and
placed on the bonfire. It is a festive occasion with food, drinks, and sometimes carnival-like
atmospheres. The event serves as a historical reminder and a celebration of the foiling of the
Gunpowder Plot.

7. New Year's Eve, Hogmanay in Scotland: Historical Background: New Year's Eve, celebrated on
December 31st, marks the last day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. The celebration of New
Year's Eve has roots in various cultures and traditions worldwide.

Modern Traditions: Hogmanay is the Scottish word for the last day of the year and is associated with
vibrant New Year celebrations in Scotland. Modern traditions include street parties, fireworks displays,
singing Auld Lang Syne (a traditional Scottish song), and the practice of "first-footing" where the first
person to enter a home after midnight brings gifts, such as food, drink, or coins, to bring good luck for
the coming year. Hogmanay celebrations often involve socializing, music, and dancing, creating a festive
atmosphere to welcome the New Year.

EX 6

1. Where is the ceremony held? The ceremony is held at the Palace of Westminster in London,
specifically in the House of Lords chamber.

2. Why are the cellars searched before the beginning? The cellars of the Palace of Westminster are
searched before the ceremony as a historical tradition to ensure the safety and security of the
monarch and the parliament. This practice dates back to the Gunpowder Plot of 1605 when Guy
Fawkes and his conspirators attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament.

3. Who and how summons the Commons to the meeting? The Commons are summoned by Black
Rod, a senior officer of the House of Lords. Black Rod is sent from the House of Lords to the
House of Commons and stands at the entrance of the Commons chamber. The doors to the
Commons are symbolically slammed shut in their face, symbolizing the independence of the
Commons. Black Rod strikes the door with their staff, known as the Black Rod, and is then
granted entry.
 4. Where are the MPs positioned during the ceremony? During the ceremony, Members of
Parliament (MPs) are positioned in the House of Commons chamber. However, they are not
present in the House of Lords chamber where the ceremony takes place. The presence of MPs is
required in the House of Commons to maintain its independence from the monarch.

5. What is the subject of the Queen's Speech? The Queen's Speech, which is delivered during the
State Opening of Parliament, outlines the legislative agenda and government's plans for the
upcoming parliamentary session. It is written by the government and is delivered by the
monarch (currently Queen Elizabeth II) on behalf of the government. The speech covers a range
of policy proposals and priorities, including matters of national importance, such as economy,
healthcare, education, foreign affairs, and more.

6. How do the peers and MPs react to the speech? During the Queen's Speech, members of the
House of Lords and House of Commons listen attentively. The speech is typically followed by a
formal debate and discussion in both Houses. Members may express their support, opposition,
or seek further clarification on the government's proposals. The speech and subsequent debates
are important for shaping the legislative agenda and policy direction of the government for the
upcoming session.

EX 7

1. New Year's Day - January 1st: It is celebrated worldwide as the beginning of the new year and is
marked by various customs and traditions. In Scotland, Hogmanay is a particularly significant
New Year celebration.

2. Easter Monday - The day after Easter Sunday: It is observed as a public holiday in many
countries. Easter Monday is a day for relaxation and outdoor activities, such as egg rolling and
family outings.

3. Hallowe'en - October 31st: It is widely celebrated in many countries, particularly in Western

cultures. It originated from ancient Celtic traditions and has become associated with costumes,
trick-or-treating, jack-o'-lanterns, and spooky themes.

4. St. Valentine's Day - February 14th: It is a day dedicated to celebrating love and affection. It is
common for people to exchange cards, gifts, and expressions of love, particularly between
romantic partners.

5. May Day - May 1st: It is an ancient spring festival celebrated in many countries. May Day is
associated with various customs, such as dancing around the maypole and crowning a May
Queen, to welcome the arrival of spring.

6. Guy Fawkes' Day (Bonfire Night) - November 5th: It commemorates the failed Gunpowder Plot
of 1605 in England. It is marked by bonfires, fireworks, and the burning of effigies of Guy
Fawkes. The event serves as a historical reminder and a celebration of the foiling of the
conspiracy.

7. Shrove Tuesday - The Tuesday before Lent: It is also known as Pancake Day and is associated
with indulging in rich foods before the start of the fasting period of Lent. Pancake races and
feasting on pancakes are common traditions.

8. Spring Bank Holiday - The last Monday in May: It is a public holiday in the UK and is associated
with the spring season. Many people use this long weekend for leisure activities, family outings,
and community events.
9. Remembrance Day (Armistice Day) - November 11th: It commemorates the end of World War I
and honors the sacrifices of armed forces personnel who lost their lives in war. The day is
marked by ceremonies, wearing poppies, and observing a moment of silence.

10. St. Patrick's Day - March 17th: It is the national day of Ireland and is celebrated in many parts of
the world by people of Irish descent. Festivities often include parades, wearing green attire, and
celebrating Irish culture.

11. Father's Day - The third Sunday in June (date varies): It is a day to honor fathers and father
figures. It is celebrated by expressing love and appreciation through cards, gifts, and spending
quality time together.

12. Christmas Eve - December 24th: It is the day preceding Christmas Day and is associated with
various traditions, such as attending midnight Mass, exchanging gifts, and gathering with family
and friends.

13. Mother's Day (Mothering Sunday) - The fourth Sunday in Lent (date varies): It is a day to honor
and appreciate mothers and mother figures. Traditions include giving cards, flowers, and gifts, as
well as spending quality time with mothers.

14. Queen's Official Birthday - The date varies, but it is usually celebrated on the second Saturday in
June: It is an official birthday celebration for the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom. The
event often includes military parades, the Trooping the Colour ceremony, and other festive
activities.

15. April Fool's Day - April 1st: It is a day for playing pranks and practical jokes on others. It is
customary to reveal the joke or prank by saying "April Fools!"