Holi 2026: Confusion Surrounds School Holidays Across India

As Holi 2026 approaches, confusion reigns over school holiday dates across India. With discrepancies reported in states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Delhi, parents and students are left wondering whether the festival will be celebrated on March 3rd or 4th. This article clarifies the holiday schedule, including Holika Dahan and Dhulandi dates, and provides insights into how different states are handling school closures. Stay informed to plan your Holi celebrations effectively.

By Ambika Singh Feb 27, 2026, 10:21 IST

Holi 2026 School Holiday Overview

Holi 2026 School Holiday: The upcoming Holi festival in 2026 is generating excitement but also confusion regarding school holidays. Parents, students, and school officials are uncertain whether the festival will be observed on March 3rd or 4th. Various states, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Delhi, and Rajasthan, are reporting inconsistencies between official holiday calendars and local customs.

Traditionally, Holi is celebrated over one or two days. However, in 2026, the overlap of Sunday with the Holika Dahan date is leading to a potential long weekend in several regions. The reopening of schools on March 3rd in Delhi-NCR and certain districts of Uttar Pradesh is still under discussion. To assist in planning your Holi celebrations, we will outline the directives issued by education departments and state governments regarding the holiday.

Holi 2026 Holiday Dates:

Due to the lunar calendar's influence, the dates for Holi this year have shifted slightly. According to various scholars and astrologers:

Holika Dahan will take place on the evening of March 2, 2026 (Monday).

Holi with Colors (Dhulandi) will be celebrated on March 4, 2026 (Wednesday).

Holi Holiday in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar:
In Uttar Pradesh, the academic calendar has already set holidays for March 1 (Sunday), March 2 (Monday – Holika Dahan), and March 4 (Wednesday – Holi). The uncertainty lies with March 3 (Tuesday). If the government announces a holiday for this day, students could enjoy four consecutive days off.

In Bihar, schools typically observe two days off for Holi, likely closing on March 3 and 4. Some institutions may also choose to close on March 2.

Holi Holiday in Delhi-NCR:
In the Delhi-NCR region, most private schools have designated March 4th (Wednesday) as a significant holiday. However, many larger institutions may also observe a holiday on March 3rd, with some offering a half-day. Parents should await official school communications for the latest updates on holiday schedules.

School Closures in Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab:
Rajasthan is known for its vibrant Holi celebrations. March 4th is officially recognized as a public holiday, but local authorities may extend the holiday based on events commencing on the evening of March 3rd. Both Haryana and Punjab have also declared March 4th as a gazetted holiday.