Holi 2026 Date: When Holika Dahan and Rangwali Holi Are To Be Celebrated This Year

Holi 2026 Date: Holi, often known as the “Festival of Colours” and the second largest festival after Diwali, is one of the most exciting Hindu observances, celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, marking the onset of spring and the triumph of good over evil. The first day of Holi is known as Holika Dahan, Jalawali Holi, or Chhoti Holi, and is followed by the second day, also known as Rangwali Holi or Dhulandi, which is a big day for celebrating dry gulaal and watercolours.

Holi is celebrated in the Hindu month of Phalguna, which falls between late February and mid-March, according to the English or Gregorian calendar.

Holi 2026 Date: Here’s the calendar for Holika Dahan and Rangwali Holi

Date	Day	Observance	Timings
March 2, 2026	Monday	Purnima Tithi Begins	05:55 PM
March 3, 2026	Tuesday	Purnima Tithi Ends	05:07 PM
March 3, 2026	Tuesday	Holika Dahan	—
March 4, 2026	Wednesday	Holi	—

Source: Drik Panchang

Holi commemorates Lord Krishna and Radha’s divine love, and Holika Dahan is based on the Indian epic account of Hiranyakashyap attempting to murder his son Prahlad through his daughter Holika.

However, Prahlad survived, while Holika was cremated as a symbol of dedication and virtue.

During this joyful event, a broad range of sweet and savoury traditional delicacies, like gujiyas and bhaang, are enjoyed, providing a sensory feast