An American man currently living in London has observed a striking transformation in British people when a bank holiday arrives. May offers two such holidays, providing workers and children with extra days off, and the man, known online as Kjordy, captured the uplifting atmosphere in a recent Instagram video.
Bank Holidays: A British Tradition
Bank holidays are eagerly anticipated in the UK, as they close banks, businesses, and schools, granting an additional day of rest. Governed by the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971 or Royal Proclamation, they typically fall on a Monday, creating a long weekend. In 2026, England and Wales have eight bank holidays, Scotland nine, and Northern Ireland ten. These days are a cherished aspect of British life, offering a welcome break from routine.
Kjordy's Observation: A Happier London
In his video, Kjordy walks through London with a bright blue sky behind him and addresses the camera directly. He explains: "I don't know what it is about a bank holiday but London is a different vibe right now. For my Americans that don't know, a couple times a year, you get a Monday off so the Friday before, everyone's in such a good mood because they get one more day of freedom."
He continues, describing the palpable joy: "And today is just hitting different. I mean, I think it helps that it's probably like 24 degrees - it's the first time we saw the sun in Lord knows how long - but they are happy. I don't think y'all are deep in this; people are walking around with a smile on their face. I can't tell you the last time I saw a random stranger smile at me. A granny blew a kiss at me, I kid you not, a granny blew a kiss at me."
Kjordy adds: "Today's gonna be a good day. I'm seeing people drinking Aperol Spritz outside of places and [carrying] ice bags walking down Clapham Common. You know it's a vibe, man." He concludes with enthusiasm: "I don't know about y'all but I'm gonna have the disco bumping this weekend. I'm about to hop on the tube but I really think this is the mood boost that London needed, bro."
The video then shows a man asking to take a photo with Kjordy, with text overlay reading "sees a guy off camera looking joyous." Kjordy describes him as "one of the nicest guys ever."
Social Media Reactions
Commenters on Instagram largely agreed with Kjordy's assessment. One wrote: "Canadian living in London and it's my first summer bank holiday and I love it!!!!" Another joked: "England is the most bipolar country I swear," while a third said: "Vibes are unmatched when the sun's out in London." A fourth added: "I love this analysis, it's basically stuff we Brits already know but just hearing you telling us what we already know is a gift."
