The month of April is shaping up to be a busy time for both government employees and families across India and the UK, as numerous public holidays and events promise to offer a break from routine.
In India, the Uttar Pradesh Government has announced a series of public holidays that will see government offices and schools closed on several days this month. According to the holiday schedule released from Lucknow, April 18, 2025, will be a holiday for Good Friday, while Ram Navami will be observed on April 6, 2025. However, since Ram Navami falls on a Sunday, employees will not receive a day off for it. Additionally, Mahavir Jayanti will be celebrated on April 10, 2025, and Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar Jayanti on April 14, 2025.
In Unnao, the District Magistrate has declared a restricted holiday on April 5, 2025, in honor of the birth anniversary of Maharishi Kashyap and Maharaj Nishad Raj. This means that members of those communities can take leave on that day. The District Administration has thus confirmed the following public holidays: Ram Navami on April 6, Mahavir Jayanti on April 10, Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar’s birthday on April 14, and Good Friday on April 18.
Rajasthan is also preparing for a busy holiday season, as government offices will be closed for five consecutive holidays. These include Mahavir Jayanti on April 10, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jayanti on April 11, the weekend of April 12 and 13, and Ambedkar Jayanti on April 14. This means employees in Rajasthan will have a substantial break, which could provide a great opportunity for relaxation and family time.
April is proving to be a month of celebration, with a total of 13 holidays across India. Government employees are encouraged to finish their work ahead of these breaks to avoid any last-minute rush. With so many holidays, it’s a perfect time for families to spend quality time together.
Meanwhile, in the UK, families are gearing up for Easter 2025, which brings a range of free and low-cost activities for children during the school holidays. MoneyMagpie Editor and financial expert Vicky Parry highlights several exciting options for families looking to enjoy the Easter break without breaking the bank.
One of the standout events is the Holker Hall Easter Egg Hunt in Cumbria, where families can search for over 100 hidden eggs in the gardens. This event will run throughout the long Bank holiday weekend, featuring egg painting and rolling competitions. Entrance to the Hall is free for children under 12, while adults pay £15.50 for access to both the house and gardens, or £11.50 for garden access alone. The egg hunt itself costs just £2 per person.
For those in London, The Big Egg Hunt offers a free city-wide trail in aid of the charity Elephant Family. Participants can discover over 100 decorated large-scale eggs at iconic locations across the city. Families can download a free app to track their egg-finding progress. In addition, the Battersea Power Station will host its inaugural chocolate market, featuring family-friendly activities like basket decorating and rides, running from April 18 to 21, 2025.
At the Leeds Royal Armouries, visitors can take part in free activities between April 5 and 17, 2025. These include demonstrations of 15th-century combat techniques and sword fighting. The venue will also offer a Crossbow Challenge for children, priced at £8 for eight bolts.
Families looking for budget-friendly dining options can take advantage of various Kids Eat Free deals available at many restaurants and cafes during the school holidays. Popular chains such as Bella Italia, Hungry Horse, and TGI Fridays often run promotions that make dining out more affordable.
Additionally, cinema-goers can find great deals during the Easter holidays. Odeon cinemas offer kids screening tickets for just £2.75, valid every day during the break. O2 or Virgin Media customers can also benefit from discounted adult tickets at Vue cinemas, with two tickets for just £9 and 10% off food and non-alcoholic drinks.
Traveling families can take advantage of discounts through National Rail, which offers a third off entry fees to numerous attractions across the UK, including SEA LIFE Centres and the Blackpool Tower Eye. Families can also enjoy two-for-one tickets at various museums and historical sites.
Public libraries are another excellent resource for families seeking affordable activities. Many libraries offer free access to books, board games, and other resources, along with free or low-cost events such as crafting workshops and storytelling sessions.
As April unfolds, both India and the UK are brimming with opportunities for families to take a break, celebrate cultural holidays, and engage in fun activities. Whether it’s through public holidays in India or free events in the UK, families are encouraged to make the most of this festive season.
