India’s calendar for 2026 is rich with cultural, religious and artistic festivals — a vivid tapestry of traditions, modern entertainment and regional celebrations. Here is a guide to some of the key festivals you can look forward to, grouped by type, with context to help you plan travel or celebrations.
Religious & traditional festivals
Makar Sankranti / Pongal (14 January 2026)
These harvest festivals mark the sun’s transit into Capricorn (Makara). Makar Sankranti is celebrated widely in north and west India, while Pongal is a major festival in Tamil Nadu. They are signals of winter’s end and include rituals, bonfires, kite-flying, special sweets and family gatherings. According to calendared listings, both fall on 14 January 2026.
Holi (4 March 2026)
The festival of colours, Holi kicks off with the evening bonfire of Holika Dahan (3 March) and full-blown play with colours, water balloons and sweets on 4 March 2026. It is a joyful time for communities all across India, and a popular period for travel and cultural immersion.
Ganesh Chaturthi (14 September 2026)
Celebrating the birthday of Lord Ganesha, this festival is especially prominent in Maharashtra. In 2026, it falls on 14 September. Expect elaborate public installations, processions and immersions.
Dussehra / Vijayadashami (20 October 2026)
The festival symbolises the victory of good over evil: in many places, effigies of Ravana are burnt. For 2026, the date noted is Tuesday, 20 October. It’s a major public event in cities like Mysore, Delhi, Kolkata and more.
Diwali (8 November 2026)
The festival of lights, Diwali features lamps, fireworks, sweets and family rituals. In 2026, Diwali is listed for 8 November. It is one of the most widely celebrated festivals across India.
Cultural & special-interest festivals
Lollapalooza India 2026 (24-25 January 2026, Mumbai)
A major music festival coming back to India in 2026, Lollapalooza India will take place in Mumbai on 24-25 January, headlined by international acts such as Linkin Park and Playboi Carti, along with over forty other performers on multiple stages. This is a key event for youth culture, international tourism and live music lovers.
Vikramotsav 2026 (15 February – 19 March 2026, Madhya Pradesh)
Organised by the Madhya Pradesh government, this cultural festival spans from 15 February to 19 March 2026, with activities continuing thereafter under the “Jal Ganga Conservation Campaign”. It includes film festivals, puppet theatres, mythological storytelling, arts exhibitions and more.
What to keep in mind & plan for
- Dates may vary: Many festivals follow lunar calendars or regional systems, so local variations in date may apply. For example, the presence of “mālmās” (an extra lunar month) in 2026 is expected to affect some festival dates.
- Travel & accommodation: Big festivals mean large crowds and demand for hotels, transport and flights. Planning ahead is essential, especially in major cities or pilgrimage sites.
- Cultural etiquette: Different regions have distinct customs — for example, dress codes, timing of events, invitation vs public attendance norms.
- Local celebrations = unique experience: Beyond national festivals, regional festivals (for example, temple fairs, river festivals, art biennales) offer rich cultural experiences.
- Enjoy responsibly: Environmental impact (fireworks, waste), personal safety (crowded events) and respecting local tradition are important.
