January 2026 School Holidays: Winter Breaks and Important Dates

As January 2026 begins, many regions are facing severe cold, prompting state governments to announce winter vacations and school closures. This article outlines the specific dates for school holidays across various states, including Delhi, Punjab, and Jammu and Kashmir. Additionally, it highlights important national holidays such as Pongal and Republic Day. Parents and students are advised to stay informed through official notifications and utilize the break for revision and skill development. Read on for a detailed overview of the school holiday schedule and the reasons behind these closures.

By Ambika Singh Jan 3, 2026, 06:48 IST

Overview of January 2026 School Closures

As January unfolds, numerous regions in the country are experiencing intense cold wave conditions. In response, various state governments have declared winter vacations and temporary school closures to safeguard children from the adverse weather and health risks. In addition to weather-related breaks, schools will also close on certain dates for festivals, national events, and significant commemorations. It is essential for parents and students to stay informed through official announcements from education departments and local authorities.

State-Specific School Holidays in January 2026

In Delhi, both government and private schools will be closed from January 1 to January 15, 2026, due to the annual winter vacation prompted by severe cold conditions.

In Punjab, winter holidays are set from December 22 to January 10, while Haryana schools will observe their winter break from January 1 to January 15.

Certain regions have announced that basic education schools, including primary and upper primary classes, will remain closed until January 14 to protect younger children from the cold.

In Jammu and Kashmir, winter vacations have been extended due to ongoing cold weather. Schools for Classes 1 to 8 will be closed from December 1 to February 28, while Classes 9 to 12 will have holidays from December 11 to February 22.

Key School Holidays in January 2026

Several significant dates in January will be recognized as school holidays across various regions:

January 14 (Wednesday): Pongal and Makar Sankranti

January 23 (Friday): Birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose

January 26 (Monday): Republic Day (nationwide school holiday)

These holidays provide students with opportunities to engage in cultural, historical, and national celebrations.

Reasons for School Closures in January

State governments implement winter vacations mainly to protect children's health during extreme cold spells. The low temperatures, fog, and associated health risks make daily commutes unsafe for students. Furthermore, scheduled holidays for festivals and national observances help maintain a balanced academic calendar while fostering cultural awareness among students.

Guidance for Parents and Students

Parents are encouraged to review the official holiday notifications released by schools and education departments. During the break, students can take advantage of the time for revision, skill enhancement, reading, and engaging in extracurricular activities. It is advisable for teachers and school administrations to clearly communicate holiday schedules to prevent any misunderstandings.