Long weekends bring festive mood for employees, students in Punjab, Chandigarh 

The festive break begins from October 18 to 21, when Diwali (October 20) and Vishwakarma Day (October 21) fall on Monday and Tuesday, creating a four-day-long weekend. The twin celebrations are expected to fill markets with festive buzz.

“Long weekends are a much-needed gift in today’s hectic work life,” says Rashmika Sharma, a faculty member at a local university. “They help employees recharge and return to work with renewed energy,” she adds.

Next in line is the Gurpurab of Guru Nanak Dev on Wednesday, November 5. By taking a leave on Tuesday, employees can enjoy a four-day break from November 2 to November 5.

Travel agencies have reported a sharp uptick in short-trip inquiries for this period.

In November, the Punjab Government will have a holiday on the 350th Martyrdom Day of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib on Tuesday, November 25. When paired with a Monday off, this day offers yet another four days of holidays. The Punjab Government is organising a series of functions to mark the martyrdom day of the Sikh Guru.

The year’s final festive break arrives with Christmas on Thursday, December 25.

Taking a leave on Friday would extend the celebrations into a four-day weekend from December 25 to 28. “This will be an ideal opportunity to travel or simply wind down before the new year begins,” Sharma says.