British holiday

BELFAST INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL

• Celebrating contemporary arts with an international theme, the Festival brings the world’s best and most innovative artists to Belfast every year.

HALLOWEEN (31 OCTOBER)

• Originally based on the ancient Celtic religion, the modern way of celebrating Halloween is becoming increasingly popular in the UK. Expect to see witches, monsters and ghosts as children and adults alike enjoy Halloween fancy dress parties on this spooky night!

DIWALI (OCTOBER/NOVEMBER)

• The Festival of Lights for Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities is marked in several UK cities. Leicester’s extravagant street party with traditional food, music, dancing and fireworks is one of the biggest Diwali celebrations outside of India.

OUTBURST ARTS FESTIVAL (NOVEMBER)

• Now in its second decade, Outburst is an annual showcase to allow LGBTQ+ people of all backgrounds find a home for stories and creative ideas.

BONFIRE NIGHT (5 NOVEMBER)

• This event marks the anniversary of Guy Fawkes’ plot to blow up the House of Lords in 1605. Wrap up warm and head out to one of the thousands of organised bonfire night events across the UK to enjoy the spectacular firework displays.

HANUKKAH (DECEMBER)

• Jewish communities across the UK celebrate Hannukkah, the Festival of Lights. The Menorah (the candelabrum lit during Hanukkah) in Trafalgar Square in London is the largest in Europe.

CHRISTMAS DAY AND BOXING DAY (25 AND 26 DECEMBER)

• Christmas means a big celebration in the UK! The build-up starts weeks before with Christmas markets, parties, trees, presents and mince pies taking centre stage through most of December. Christmas Day itself is a bank holiday, as is the day after, Boxing Day, when many people spend time with friends and family.