Schools across northern and eastern India have announced Holi holidays from March 2 to March 4, 2026, after state governments cleared the confusion surrounding the festival dates.
In Uttar Pradesh, students are set to enjoy a four-day extended break, making it one of the longest holiday stretches this festive season.
Meanwhile, states including Bihar, Jharkhand, Delhi, and Assam have announced one or two-day school closures, depending on local observances and administrative decisions.
The confusion had stemmed from differing regional calendars, with Holika Dahan and the main Holi celebrations falling on March 3 and March 4 in various parts of the country.
As uncertainty lingered over the exact celebration date, families awaited official confirmation. Now, with state-wise notifications issued, the holiday calendar is clear, bringing both relief and festive excitement.
Here’s a detailed state-by-state breakdown of school closures, reopening dates, and what students and parents need to know for Holi 2026.
WHEN WILL SCHOOLS REMAIN CLOSED IN UTTAR PRADESH?
Uttar Pradesh has announced one of the longest breaks for Holi this year. According to the state’s gazetted holiday calendar, government schools will remain closed from March 2 to March 4, 2026.
Since March 1 falls on a Sunday, students will effectively enjoy a four-day consecutive holiday.
- March 2 and March 3: Holika Dahan observances
- March 4: Main Holi celebrations
- March 5: Regular classes resume
The order applies to government schools across the state.
Private institutions are also aligning with the state directive. However, the schools have clarified that board examinations for both National and International Curricula will continue as per the existing schedule, while internal examinations during this period will be rescheduled.
WHAT ABOUT DELHI, HARYANA AND PUNJAB?
In the national capital and neighbouring states, the closure schedule is slightly shorter.
- Delhi, Haryana and Punjab have declared a holiday on March 4 for Holi.
- Schools in these states are expected to reopen the following day unless otherwise notified by individual institutions.
Parents are advised to check specific school circulars for confirmation.
WILL BIHAR HAVE A TWO-DAY HOLIDAY?
As Holi draws near, schools and other educational institutions in Bihar are expected to remain closed on March 3 and March 4, in accordance with regional calendar calculations and local observances of Holika Dahan followed by the main Holi celebrations.
ARE RAJASTHAN AND MADHYA PRADESH OBSERVING EARLY CLOSURES?
In Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, schools are expected to remain closed around March 2 and March 3, depending on district-level notifications and local festival traditions.
Authorities have noted that minor variations may occur based on regional calendar interpretations.
In Assam, where Holi is celebrated as ‘Daul Utsav’ or ‘Dol Jatra’, schools will remain closed on March 3. The festival holds special cultural significance in the state, particularly in Vaishnavite traditions.
WHAT SHOULD PARENTS KEEP IN MIND?
Education authorities have advised parents and students to verify holiday dates directly with their respective schools, stay updated on examination schedules, particularly for board exams, and regularly monitor official circulars for any last-minute changes or revisions.
Several private institutions have already issued formal notifications confirming closure dates and reopening schedules.
Holi, one of India’s most widely celebrated festivals, symbolises the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring. Marked by Holika Dahan bonfires, vibrant colours, sweets such as gujiya, and community gatherings, the festival brings families and communities together.
With consecutive closures announced in multiple states, students in many parts of northern, central and eastern India are set to enjoy extended holidays aligned with regional traditions.
As the festival approaches, authorities continue to urge families to confirm local schedules – and prepare for a joyful, safe and colourful Holi 2026.
