2 January

In Scotland, 2 January is an official public bank holiday, providing an extended festive break immediately after New Year's Day. While the rest of the United Kingdom returns to normal working routines, Scots enjoy a second day of rest to continue Hogmanay celebrations or recover from the festivities.

The tradition of granting an extra day off at the start of January is rooted in Scotland's distinct religious and social history. Following the Scottish Reformation in 1560, the Presbyterian Church discouraged the observance of Christmas, viewing it as a Catholic tradition lacking biblical foundation. Consequently, Christmas Day was largely ignored in Scotland for centuries and was not recognised as an official public holiday until 1958. Instead, midwinter celebrations centred entirely on Hogmanay (New Year's Eve) and New Year's Day.

Because New Year festivities were so elaborate and extended over several days, taking 2 January off work was already a widespread informal custom by the 19th century. Although 1 January became a statutory bank holiday in Scotland under the Bank Holidays Act 1871, 2 January was formally codified as an official bank holiday under the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971, legally confirming a long-standing Scottish tradition.

On 2 January, people across Scotland enjoy a relaxed pace with family gatherings, winter walks, and quiet visits to friends. A central culinary custom involves eating steak pie, a dish favoured because local butchers historically took time off at the start of the year, leading families to buy prepared pies in advance. Traditional sporting fixtures, including local football derbies and Ne'erday games, are frequently held on or around this date. For many, the holiday acts as a welcome recovery day following late-night Hogmanay parties and first-footing visits.