February 2026 Calendar With Holidays Bangladesh

Here are the key takeaways for February 2026 that you absolutely need to know:

• Shab-e-Barat: This significant Islamic observance falls on Wednesday, February 4, 2026. While not a public holiday, it’s widely observed with prayers and fasting, impacting local routines.
• Shaheed Dibosh & International Mother Language Day: A crucial national public holiday on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Expect widespread commemorations and some service disruptions, as it honors the martyrs of the Bengali language movement.
• Weekend Structure: Remember that the official weekend in Bangladesh is Friday and Saturday, differing from the typical Saturday-Sunday weekend in the USA. This is vital for scheduling.
• Cultural Immersion: February offers unique opportunities to witness profound cultural expressions, from religious devotion to national pride.

The February 2026 Bangladesh Calendar at a Glance

Let’s get straight to the calendar. Below is a clear, easy-to-read table outlining every day of February 2026, highlighting the key holidays and observances in Bangladesh. I’ve designed this to be your go-to reference.

Calendar Key:

• Light Blue Highlight: Denotes a Public Holiday in Bangladesh. Expect closures and significant public observance.
• Light Orange Highlight: Indicates a Significant Islamic Observance. While not typically a public holiday, it’s widely observed culturally and religiously, which may affect local rhythm.
• Weekend: In Bangladesh, the weekend consists of Friday and Saturday.

Unpacking Bangladesh’s February 2026 Holidays: Public & Religious Significance

Knowing the dates is one thing, but understanding the soul behind them is another. For our US audience, let’s explore the meaning and impact of February’s significant dates in Bangladesh.

Shab-e-Barat (Laylat al-Bara’a): The Night of Forgiveness (February 4, 2026)

Shab-e-Barat, also known as Laylat al-Bara’a, is a profoundly significant Islamic observance. It falls on the 15th night of Sha’ban, the eighth month of the Islamic calendar. In 2026, this translates to Wednesday, February 4th in Bangladesh.

What it signifies: For many Muslims, this is considered a night when Allah determines the fortunes of all individuals for the coming year, and a night of forgiveness for sins. Devotees spend the night in prayer, recitation of the Quran, and seeking repentance. Many also fast during the day leading up to Shab-e-Barat.

How it’s observed: Families often visit graves of loved ones, distribute sweets and food to the poor, and light candles or decorative lamps. Mosques are typically crowded with worshippers. While it is not a public holiday in Bangladesh, its widespread observance means that many people will take time for religious devotion. You might notice reduced traffic in some areas during the evening, and local markets might close earlier or operate with fewer staff as people prepare for the night’s prayers and activities.

Impact for a US visitor/business: Business operations might slow down slightly, particularly in the afternoon and evening. If you have appointments scheduled for the late afternoon or evening of February 4th, it’s wise to confirm them. Expect a deeply spiritual atmosphere, especially in residential areas.

Shaheed Dibosh & International Mother Language Day (February 21, 2026)

This is arguably the most significant secular holiday in Bangladesh, observed on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Known nationally as Shaheed Dibosh (Martyrs’ Day), it commemorates the sacrifices made during the Bengali Language Movement of 1952.

Image Source: banglacalendar2026.com

What it signifies: In 1952, students and political activists in then East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) protested against the imposition of Urdu as the sole official language, demanding that Bengali also be recognized. Several students were killed by police. This event laid the groundwork for Bangladeshi nationalism and eventually its independence. In 1999, UNESCO declared February 21st as International Mother Language Day, recognizing the sacrifices made for linguistic rights globally.

How it’s observed: Shaheed Dibosh is a public holiday across Bangladesh. The day begins with mournful songs and solemn processions to the Shaheed Minar (Martyrs’ Monument) in Dhaka and similar memorials across the country. People lay wreaths, flowers, and observe a moment of silence. Many dress in black and white as a sign of mourning. Cultural organizations hold events to celebrate the Bengali language and heritage. Government offices, banks, educational institutions, and many private businesses will be closed.

Impact for a US visitor/business: Expect significant closures. Public transport might be affected, especially around memorial sites. If you plan to travel within Dhaka on this day, be prepared for diversions and large crowds, particularly near the Shaheed Minar. This is a day of national pride and remembrance, offering a powerful insight into the country’s identity. Participating in or observing the commemorations, even from a distance, can be a deeply moving experience.

Other Noteworthy Observances in February 2026

While Shab-e-Barat and Shaheed Dibosh are the most impactful, February also includes some international observances that might be recognized to varying degrees in Bangladesh:

• World Wetlands Day (February 2): Celebrated globally, this day promotes awareness about the importance of wetlands. Bangladesh, with its vast network of rivers and wetlands (like the Sundarbans), often participates in environmental awareness programs. This is not a public holiday but may see local environmental events.

These observances are generally less disruptive than public holidays but reflect a global consciousness that touches Bangladesh as well.

Beyond the Dates: Cultural Context for a US Audience

Understanding dates is a great start, but true preparedness means understanding the underlying cultural framework. For those of us used to the Gregorian calendar and weekend structure in the USA, a few points about Bangladesh are essential.

Understanding Bangladeshi Calendar Systems (Bengali vs. Gregorian)

While Bangladesh officially uses the Gregorian calendar for administrative and business purposes, the Bengali calendar (Bangla Panjika) plays a significant role in cultural and religious life. The Bengali calendar is a lunisolar calendar that begins its year with Pohela Boishakh (usually April 14th). Many festivals and traditional events, while listed on Gregorian calendars, are primarily determined by the Bengali date. Islamic holidays, like Shab-e-Barat, are based on the lunar Islamic calendar, which shifts by roughly 10-11 days each Gregorian year.

This means that while I’ve provided the Gregorian dates, sometimes local conversation or traditional media might refer to the Bengali date. For February 2026, we are roughly in the Bengali month of Falgun. Don’t worry too much about converting dates yourself; official holiday lists always use the Gregorian calendar. Just be aware that a deeper cultural layer exists!

Planning Your Visit or Business Around February 2026 Holidays

Here’s how these February holidays might impact your practical plans: