Holi is one of the most important festivals celebrated in India. It is a major festival of Indian culture, symbolizing joy, love, and unity. Everyone celebrates Holi with great enthusiasm, exchanging holi messages, greetings and expressing love and respect. If you are looking for information about when Holi will be celebrated in 2026, its date and timings, you will find all the details here in simple terms.
When is Holi in 2026?
In 2026, Holi will be celebrated on: Wednesday, 4 March 2026
On this day, people will play Holi with colors (such as Gulal).
When is Holika Dahan in 2026?
Holika Dahan will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. The best time for the puja (ritual) is in the evening after sunset.
Prahlada became a devotee of Lord Vishnu at a very young age. Hiranyakashipu tried to kill Prahlada with the help of his sister Holika, but Lord Vishnu protected Prahlada, and Holika was burned in the fire, while Prahlada remained unharmed. Holika Dahan is celebrated to commemorate this victory of good over evil. Holika Dahan is celebrated one day before Holi.
During Holika Dahan, people light a bonfire representing negativity and invoke positive energy.
What is Holi and Why It Is Celebrated
Holi is a major Hindu religious festival deeply rooted in Indian civilization and culture. It is celebrated in the bright half of the month of Phalguna.
The festival is rooted in the story of Prahlad and Holika, which shows that faith and truth always overcome evil. To remember this, people perform Holika Dahan on the night before Holi by lighting a sacred fire. It represents the end of harmful thoughts and bad influences.
During this festival, people apply colored powders (gulal and abir) to each other, throw colored water, and eat sweets. The festival of Holi encourages everyone to resolve their differences and build loving relationships.
How People Celebrate Holi
Holi is deeply rooted in Indian culture and history and is celebrated by respectfully playing with colors and connecting with those around you.
Children love playing with colors and water, while many adults prefer using dry colors and socializing in a more relaxed manner. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Different communities and social classes share sweets, apply gulal and abeer (colored powders) on each other, fostering unity and brotherhood.
Holi is a colorful, joyful, and loving festival. Traditionally, gujiya (sweet dumplings) and thandai (a refreshing drink) are prepared at home on this day. It’s important to be mindful during this festival and teach children to use skin-safe colors, conserve water, and respect those who do not wish to participate in the festivities.
Regional Ways of Celebrating Holi in India
Holi is celebrated in different ways across India, but the spirit of love and peace remains the same. Some examples of these celebrations are given below:
- Mathura & Vrindavan: Famous for long Holi celebrations and flower Holi
- Barsana: Lathmar Holi
- West Bengal: Dol Jatra with cultural performances
- Punjab: Hola Mohalla with strength displays and martial arts
- Maharashtra & Gujarat: Rang, music, and community gatherings
Upcoming Holi Festivals
| Year | Date of Holi (Rangwali Holi / Main Day) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | Friday, 14 March 2025 |
| 2026 | Wednesday, 4 March 2026 |
| 2027 | Tuesday, 23 March 2027 |
| 2028 | Saturday, 11 March 2028 |
| 2029 | Thursday, 1 March 2029 |
| 2030 | Tuesday, 19 March 2030 |
| 2031 | Thursday, 6 March 2031 |
| 2032 | Friday, 25 March 2032 |
| 2033 | Monday, 14 March 2033 |
| 2034 | Saturday, 2 March 2034 |
FAQs
Q1. On which day is Holi in 2026?
A1. Holi will be celebrated on Wednesday, 4 March 2026.
Q2. When is Holika Dahan in 2026?
A2. Holika Dahan will be on Tuesday, 3 March 2026, in the evening after sunset.
Q3. Is Holi a public holiday in India in 2026?
A3. Yes, Holi is a gazetted holiday in most parts of India, though it may vary by state.
Q4. Why does Holi date change every year?
A4. Holi is based on the Hindu Lunar Calendar, so its date changes each year according to the full moon (Purnima).
Q5. Can Holi be celebrated for more than one day?
A5. Yes. In many regions, Holi celebrations last 2–5 days, especially in places like Mathura and Vrindavan.
Conclusion
Mark your calendar for 3–4 March 2026! Holi brings together vibrant colors, meaningful traditions and joyous celebrations. Whether you’re joining festivities in your neighborhood or planning a trip to an iconic Holi destination, be safe, choose skin-friendly colors, and embrace the spirit of spring-time renewal and togetherness. News Hoarding providing all the latest and trending news and stories from all parts of the world to its users.