Holi 2026 School Holidays: Will Students Get a Long Weekend?

As winter fades and the festive mood begins to build, all eyes turn to Holi, one of India’s most vibrant and joyful celebrations. In North Indian states like Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and the national capital Delhi, the excitement around Holi holidays is already growing. Students and parents are keen to know whether this year’s festival could bring an extended school break.
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Holi 2026 Date Details

In 2026, Holika Dahan will be observed on Monday, March 2. The main festival of colours, Rangwali Holi, will be celebrated on Wednesday, March 4. This places Tuesday, March 3, right between two key festival days, leading to speculation about whether schools might declare it a holiday as well.

How the Holiday Calendar Looks

Here is how the week shapes up:


  • Sunday, March 1, is already a weekly holiday for most schools.
  • Monday, March 2, is expected to be a holiday for Holika Dahan.
  • Tuesday, March 3, is currently listed as a regular working day.
  • Wednesday, March 4, will be an official holiday for Holi in most parts of the country.

If authorities or school managements decide to declare March 3 as a holiday, students could enjoy four consecutive days off from Sunday to Wednesday. This possibility has sparked discussions among teachers’ associations and parents, especially in North India.

What About Private Schools and Five Day Weeks?

Many private schools in Delhi, Gurgaon, and Noida follow a five day work week, which means Saturday and Sunday are already holidays. In such cases, if March 3 is declared off, students could potentially enjoy a longer continuous break stretching from Saturday to Wednesday.


However, no formal announcement has been made yet by the administrations of Uttar Pradesh or Haryana regarding an additional holiday. Each school may take its own decision based on internal planning and academic schedules.

Board Exams Could Affect Holidays

It is important to note that this period often overlaps with board examinations for Classes 10 and 12. Due to exam schedules, schools may adjust holiday plans for senior students. While junior classes might get extended holidays, board students could have a different timetable.

Wait for Official Confirmation

Although draft holiday lists may circulate in advance, the final confirmation will come only through official school notices. Private institutions often follow their own academic calendars, so parents are advised to monitor updates from their respective schools.

For now, the idea of a long Holi break remains a strong possibility but not a certainty. If the additional holiday is approved, students could look forward to a refreshing four day festive break filled with colours, family gatherings, and perhaps even a short getaway.