Holi 2026: Will it be celebrated on 3 or 4 March? Know the exact date

Confusion surrounds the celebration date of Holi 2026 as the Phalguna Purnima falls across two days. According to the Hindu calendar, the full moon begins on March 2 evening and ends on March 3.

Post Published By: Sona Saini

Updated : 20 February 2026, 3:25 PM IST

Rangwali Holi will be celebrated on March 4

New Delhi: This year, there's confusion among people regarding the date of Holi. Because the full moon of the month of Phalgun falls on two days, many are wondering whether Holika Dahan will be celebrated on March 2 or March 3, and whether Holi with colors will be celebrated on March 3 or March 4. Let's understand the entire situation according to the calendar.

When does the Falgun Purnima date begin?

According to calendar calculations, the Falgun Purnima date will begin at 5:56 pm on March 2, 2026, and will last until 5:07 pm on March 3. Based on the Udayatithi, the full moon will be considered on March 3. This is why there is confusion regarding the date.

When is Holika Dahan 2026?

Holika Dahan is performed during the Bhadra-free period on the full moon day. After the full moon on March 2, Bhadra Mukha will last from 2:38 am to 4:34 am. The first lunar eclipse of the year will also occur on March 3rd from noon to evening, marking the end of the full moon.

According to some astrologers, burning Holika on March 2nd is in accordance with scriptures, while others believe that burning Holika on March 3rd, during the Bhadra-free period, would be more auspicious. In such a situation, decisions can be made based on local calendars and astrological advice.

When will Holi of Colors be celebrated?

Holi of Colors is always celebrated the day after Holika Dahan, i.e., on the Pratipada Tithi of Chaitra month. In 2026, Chaitra Pratipada falls on March 4th. Therefore, Holi of Colors will be celebrated across the country on March 4th, 2026.

What is the significance of Holika Dahan?

Holika Dahan symbolizes the victory of good over evil. According to mythological beliefs, the story of the protection of devotee Prahlad and the burning of Holika is associated with this festival. The festival of colors celebrated the following day conveys the message of brotherhood, love, and enthusiasm.

Thus, even though there may be differences regarding the date of Holika Dahan in 2026, Holi of colors will be celebrated with great pomp on March 4.