The lively festival of Holi marks the arrival of spring, the triumph of good over evil and joyous colour-filled gatherings across India.
Date & Timing for Holi 2026
-
The eve of Holi, known as Holika Dahan (bonfire ritual), will be observed on Tuesday evening, 3 March 2026.
-
The main day of Holi, called Rangwali Holi or Dhulandi, falls on Wednesday, 4 March 2026.
-
Some traditions consider the celebration period beginning at the full-moon tithi: for 2026, the purnima begins 2 March evening and ends 3 March evening.
Significance & Traditions
Holi celebrates the defeat of the demoness Holika and the survival of the devotee Prahlad — symbolising the victory of devotion and good over evil. It also marks the end of winter and the arrival of spring, encouraging renewal, forgiveness, and community harmony.
On Holika Dahan evening, people light bonfires, offer prayers, and cleanse past grievances. The next day, the streets become a riot of colour as people throw coloured powders and water, dance, sing, share sweets and reconnect with loved ones.
How to Celebrate Holi 2026
-
Wear white clothes to make the colours stand out.
-
Choose natural, skin-safe colours and protect your eyes with sunglasses.
-
Mix colours and joy responsibly — many cities have public events and organised colour-fights.
-
After the celebrations, shower and apply moisturiser to remove residues from powders and water.
-
In travel hubs like Vrindavan or Jaipur, you’ll find extended celebrations, early morning rituals and special cultural performances.
FAQs
Q1. When is Holi in 2026?
A1. The main day of Holi is 4 March 2026 (Wednesday), with Holika Dahan the night before on 3 March 2026 (Tuesday evening).
Q2. Why does the date of Holi change every year?
A2. Holi is set according to the Hindu lunar calendar (the full-moon day of the Phalguna month) so the corresponding Gregorian date shifts each year.
Q3. What is the best time to celebrate Holi colours?
A3. The colour-play typically happens on the morning of Rangwali Holi (4 March 2026). Many local events start at dawn and extend into midday.
Q4. What rituals are unique to Holika Dahan?
A4. On Holika Dahan (3 March 2026 evening), people light a bonfire to symbolise the destruction of evil. Offerings like grains, coconuts and prayers are made.
Q5. Is Holi only about colours?
A5. No — besides colours, Holi is about forgiveness, renewal of relationships, community spirit, and gratitude for the upcoming spring season.
Conclusion
Mark your calendar for 3–4 March 2026! Holi brings together vibrant colours, meaningful traditions and joyous celebrations. Whether you’re joining festivities in your neighbourhood or planning a trip to an iconic Holi destination, be safe, choose skin-friendly colours, and embrace the spirit of spring-time renewal and togetherness.
Would you like me to include regional puja timings (for cities like Delhi, Mumbai or Kolkata) or travel tips for celebrating Holi with kids or family?