Holi 2026 is one of the most joyful and colorful festivals in India, celebrated with love, harmony, and enthusiasm. Known as the festival of colors, Holi strengthens social bonding and reminds people to forget old differences and celebrate together. Every year, there is confusion about the exact date of Holi, and 2026 is no exception. Many people are searching: Is Holi on 3rd or 4th March 2026?
Here is the complete and correct information about Holi 2026 date in India, Holika Dahan timing, state-wise celebrations, and important FAQs.
Holi 2026 Date in India (3rd or 4th March?)
Holika Dahan 2026: Tuesday, 3 March 2026
Rangwali Holi / Dhulandi: Wednesday, 4 March 2026
The real and main Holi festival in 2026 will be celebrated on 4 March, not on 3 March.
Holika Dahan is performed one day before Holi, following Hindu Panchang calculations.
Holika Dahan 2026 Date & Muhurat
According to the Hindu Panchang:
- Purnima Tithi Begins: 2 March 2026 at 5:55 PM
- Purnima Tithi Ends: 3 March 2026 at 5:07 PM
Holika Dahan Muhurat (India)
- Date: 3 March 2026
- Time: 6:22 PM to 8:50 PM
Holika Dahan symbolizes the victory of good over evil, based on the legend of Bhakta Prahlad and Holika.
Holi 2026 Calendar with Holidays
| Festival | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| Holika Dahan | 3 March 2026 | Tuesday |
| Rangwali Holi | 4 March 2026 | Wednesday |
Most schools, government offices, and banks across India will remain closed on 4 March 2026.
Holi 2026 in Bihar
In Bihar, Holi is popularly known as Fagua and is celebrated with traditional folk songs and rituals.
- Holika Dahan is performed on 3 March 2026
- Colorful Holi celebrations take place on 4 March 2026
Special dishes like malpua, pua, and festive music add a unique cultural charm to Holi in Bihar.
Holi 2026 in Vrindavan & Mathura
Vrindavan and Mathura, the land of Lord Krishna, are world-famous for their grand Holi celebrations.
Highlights of Holi 2026 in Vrindavan:
- Lathmar Holi in Barsana
- Phoolon Ki Holi
- Temple celebrations at Banke Bihari Temple
- Traditional Braj folk songs
Festivities here begin several days before 4 March 2026, attracting devotees and tourists from across the globe.
Holi 2026 in Delhi
In Delhi, Holi is celebrated on 4 March 2026 with:
- Community Holi Milan programs
- Music events and color parties
- Family gatherings and festive food
People prefer eco-friendly colors and safe celebrations in residential areas.
Holi 2026 in Maharashtra
In Maharashtra, Holi is celebrated in two phases:
- Holika Dahan / Shimga: 3 March 2026
- Rangwali Holi / Dhulandi: 4 March 2026
In some regions, Rang Panchami is also celebrated a few days later.
What Is the Real Date of Holi in 2026?
Holi 2026 will be celebrated on Wednesday, 4 March 2026
Holika Dahan will be performed on Tuesday, 3 March 2026
Any confusion arises due to Panchang tithi overlap, but the main festival day is 4 March.
In Which Year Was Holi on 4 March?
Holi falls on 4 March in 2026, and it has occurred on this date several times in previous calendar cycles depending on lunar calculations.
Where Is Holi in 2027?
In 2027, Holi will again be celebrated across India and Nepal, with major celebrations in:
- Mathura
- Vrindavan
- Barsana
- Delhi
- Rajasthan
Where Is Holi in 2028?
In 2028, Holi will be celebrated throughout India, especially in:
- Uttar Pradesh
- Bihar
- Maharashtra
- Rajasthan
- West Bengal
Which Festival Is Coming in 2026?
Major Hindu festivals in 2026 include:
- Maha Shivratri
- Holi
- Ram Navami
- Janmashtami
- Diwali
- Chhath Puja
Importance of Holi Festival
Holi is not just about colors – it represents:
- Love and brotherhood
- Forgiveness and new beginnings
- Social unity and joy
People worship Lord Krishna, Radha, and other deities, apply gulal, exchange sweets, and celebrate together.
Holi 2026
Holi will be celebrated with happiness, devotion, and vibrant colors on 4 March, following Holika Dahan on 3 March 2026. From Bihar to Vrindavan, Delhi to Maharashtra, the festival will spread joy, positivity, and togetherness.
Wishing you a safe, joyful, and colorful Holi
FAQ
Holi in 2026 will be celebrated on Wednesday, 4 March 2026 across India. This day is known as Rangwali Holi or Dhulandi.
Holika Dahan will be observed on Tuesday, 3 March 2026, a day before Holi, during the evening auspicious muhurat as per the Hindu Panchang.
Holi colors will be played on 4 March 2026, while Holika Dahan will take place on 3 March 2026. The confusion happens due to Purnima Tithi timing.
In Vrindavan and Mathura, Holi 2026 will be celebrated with traditional events like Phoolon Ki Holi, Lathmar Holi, and temple rituals linked to Lord Krishna.
After Holi 2026, major upcoming festivals include Ram Navami, Mahavir Jayanti, and Hanuman Jayanti, depending on regional calendars.
