When Holi Celebrated in Which State 2026: State-Wise Dates & School Holidays Guide
Holi, the joyous festival of colours, unites millions across India with vibrant celebrations, throwing gulal, playing with water, exchanging gujiya sweets, and embracing the spirit of spring. In 2026, amid some initial confusion due to lunar calendar variations and a total lunar eclipse influence on Phalguna Purnima, dates have now been clarified. Most reliable sources confirm Holika Dahan (Chhoti Holi) on the evening of March 3, 2026, and the main Rangwali Holi (Dhulandi or colour play) on March 4, 2026 (Wednesday).
However, regional panchang differences, local traditions, and astrological factors like eclipse sutak have led to variations: some states observe the primary colour festival on March 3, while others stick to March 4. This directly impacts when Holi celebrated in which state and school holiday schedules. Students and parents are tracking these closely, especially as many schools wrap up exams or continue sessions.
Schools will remain closed for Holi in line with state government orders, gazetted holidays, and education department calendars. Government and aided schools generally follow these strictly, though private institutions may vary slightly—always confirm with your school.
Uttar Pradesh: Generous 3-Day Public & School Holiday
Uttar Pradesh stands out with an extended break. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced a three-day public holiday from March 2 to March 4, 2026. All government offices, schools, and educational institutions stay closed during this period. This covers Holika Dahan observances and the main festival.
The government directed early disbursement of February salaries and pensions. Interestingly, February 28, 2026 (Saturday) was declared a working day to offset the extra holiday. With March 1 being Sunday, many students enjoy a four-day weekend break. Holi in UP aligns with March 4 for the main celebrations, though preparations start earlier.
Delhi: Exam Adjustments & Closure on March 4
In Delhi, schools are amid examinations. No exams are scheduled on the Holi day. The CBSE ensured no board exams on March 4, 2026. Most schools remain closed on March 4 for the festival, giving relief during this busy period.
Bihar: Official Two-Day School Closure
Bihar Education Department’s academic calendar confirms schools closed on both March 3 and March 4, 2026. This allows full participation in Holika Dahan and Rangwali Holi.
Manipur (Local Context): Yaosang Festival Blend
In Manipur, Holi merges with the traditional Yaosang festival. While the main Holi/Rangwali aligns with March 4, 2026, Yaosang often extends over several days (some local reports mention starts earlier or multi-day fun with sports, Thabal Chongba dances, and colours). Schools follow state gazette, likely closed on March 4, with possible extended breaks for local customs. Check Manipur Education Department notices for exact school dates.
State-Wise Breakdown: When Holi Celebrated in Which State 2026
Holi dates vary due to Amanta vs. Purnimanta calendars, eclipse considerations, and regional customs. Here’s the detailed list based on recent announcements:
States Celebrating Main Holi / Colour Play on March 3, 2026 (Schools typically closed March 3; some include March 4):
- Maharashtra
- Madhya Pradesh
- Uttarakhand (some overlap)
- Assam
- Telangana
- Rajasthan
- West Bengal (Dol Jatra)
- Goa
- Jharkhand
- Kerala
- Andhra Pradesh
These regions often perform Holika Dahan earlier and celebrate Dhulandi on March 3.
States Celebrating Main Holi / Colour Play on March 4, 2026 (Schools closed on March 4; extended in some):
- Gujarat
- Mizoram
- Odisha
- Chandigarh
- Manipur (Yaosang main day)
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Jammu & Kashmir
- Uttar Pradesh
- Delhi
- Bihar
- Chhattisgarh
- Meghalaya
- Himachal Pradesh
Many northern and eastern states align here, with Holika Dahan on March 3 evening.
Additional insights: Haryana, Punjab often follow March 4; Rajasthan may have March 2-3 closures; southern states vary but mostly one day.
Why Dates Vary Across States?
Holi falls on Phalguna Purnima. In 2026, Purnima tithi spans March 2 evening to March 3 afternoon/evening, with a total lunar eclipse affecting muhurat in some panchangs. Holika Dahan occurs in Pradosh Kaal when Purnima prevails. Regional differences arise from:
- Eclipse sutak restrictions
- Local traditions (e.g., Yaosang in Manipur, Dol Jatra in Bengal)
- Calendar systems
Most national calendars mark March 4 as the gazetted Holi holiday.
School Holiday Tips for Holi 2026
- Confirm Locally — Private schools/CBSE affiliates may adjust differently.
- Safety — Use herbal colours, protect eyes/skin, stay hydrated.
- Eco-Friendly — Choose organic gulal, minimize water use.
- Balance Fun & Studies — Use breaks for revision if exams loom.
- Family Traditions — Enjoy gujiya, thandai, visit temples/relatives.
Holi 2026 brings colour, joy, and unity. Whether your state celebrates on March 3 or 4, embrace the festival safely!
Always verify final dates via official school notices or state education portals, as minor changes can occur.
