Victoria Day (Scotland)

Victoria Day (Scottish Gaelic: Latha Victoria) is a public holiday in parts of Eastern Central Scotland, chiefly the cities of Dundee and Edinburgh, although it was formerly more widespread. It is celebrated on the last Monday before or on 24 May and commemorates Queen Victoria's birthday (24 May 1819).

Victoria Day
Observed by	Scotland
Date	last Monday before or on 24 May
2019 date	20 May
2020 date	18 May
2021 date	24 May
2022 date	23 May
Frequency	annual

Traditionally schools, and some offices and shops, are closed on Victoria Day, but it is not a bank holiday, meaning that government offices and banks remain open.[1][2] Because of its proximity to the Spring Bank Holiday a week later, Victoria Day is often marked on that date. As with many public holidays very few shops in Scotland now observe it.

In 2017, the City of Dundee council lists the Spring Bank Holiday (29th May) as Victoria Day,[2] whilst the City of Edinburgh lists Victoria Day as being 22nd May.[3] It is no longer listed as a recognised public holiday in areas where it was formerly observed, including Renfrewshire and Perth and Kinross.

It is also a holiday in Canada, celebrated at the same time.

See also

References

1. "Public holiday dates in 2015". The City of Edinburgh Council. Retrieved 15 September 2015.
2. http://www.dundeecity.gov.uk/publicholidays#
3. Goudie, Katie. "Public holidays". www.edinburgh.gov.uk.