February 2026 Calendar With Holidays India

February 2026: Your Essential Guide to Indian Holidays and Festivals

Are you looking to plan a trip to India in February 2026, manage remote teams, or simply understand the rich cultural tapestry of the subcontinent from afar? Then you need accurate, reliable information about the holidays. Many calendars can be misleading, mixing in irrelevant global observances and leaving you guessing about specific Indian festivals. But don’t worry, I’m here to cut through the noise. This guide provides the definitive February 2026 calendar, focusing exclusively on significant Indian holidays and observances, complete with their cultural context and practical implications, especially for those of us in the USA.

February 2026 Indian Holidays at a Glance

February in India is a month of transition, often marking the gentle onset of spring in many regions, especially with festivals like Vasant Panchami. It’s also a time for deep spiritual observance with powerful festivals dedicated to deities like Lord Shiva and revered saints. While February 2026 features fewer *national* public holidays than some other months, it is rich with significant religious festivals and important regional observances that demand attention for anyone planning travel or business.

Comprehensive Table of Indian Holidays & Observances – February 2026

Here’s a quick overview of the key Indian holidays and festivals you need to know for February 2026. This table clearly differentiates between national public holidays, state-specific holidays, and widely observed religious festivals, giving you a clear picture at a glance.

Date	Day	Holiday / Festival	Type	Key Significance
February 1	Sunday	Guru Ravidas Jayanti	Religious (Sikh, Ravidassia)	Birth anniversary of Guru Ravidas, a revered Indian mystic and saint.
February 2	Monday	Vasant Panchami	Religious (Hindu)	Celebrates the arrival of spring and honours Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge and arts.
February 12	Thursday	Vijaya Ekadashi	Religious (Hindu Fasting Day)	Fasting day dedicated to Lord Vishnu, believed to grant success in endeavours.
February 14	Saturday	Maha Shivaratri	Religious (Hindu)	The ‘Great Night of Shiva,’ commemorating the convergence of Shiva and Parvati, observed with fasting and prayers.
February 19	Thursday	Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti	State Holiday (Maharashtra)	Birth anniversary of the great Maratha warrior king, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
February 27	Friday	Amalaki Ekadashi	Religious (Hindu Fasting Day)	Fasting day dedicated to Lord Vishnu and the Amalaki (Amla) tree, considered sacred.
February 28	Saturday	Holika Dahan / Phalguna Purnima	Religious (Hindu)	Marks the triumph of good over evil, celebrated with bonfires; precursor to the Holi festival.

Unpacking February’s Major Indian Festivals and Public Holidays

Now, let’s dive deeper into what makes these holidays significant and how they are typically observed across India. Understanding the cultural context will enrich your experience, whether you’re traveling, conducting business, or simply appreciating India’s vibrant heritage.

Guru Ravidas Jayanti (February 1st, 2026 – Sunday)

Guru Ravidas Jayanti celebrates the birth anniversary of Guru Ravidas, a 15th to 16th-century Indian mystic and saint of the Bhakti movement. Revered particularly in the Sikh and Ravidassia communities, his teachings emphasized equality, spirituality, and challenging social stratification. On this day, devotees participate in prayers, kirtans (devotional singing), and processions. Special ceremonies are held in gurdwaras and temples, particularly in Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. Since it falls on a Sunday in 2026, its impact on business operations might be minimal, but it remains a significant spiritual day for millions.

Vasant Panchami (February 2nd, 2026 – Monday)

Often considered the official beginning of spring, Vasant Panchami is a vibrant Hindu festival dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge, music, arts, and learning. Across India, especially in the northern and eastern regions, people dress in yellow – a color associated with prosperity and the blooming mustard fields of spring. Students and artists particularly venerate Saraswati, placing books, pens, and musical instruments before her idol for blessings. Schools and educational institutions often conduct special prayers. While not a national public holiday, many schools and some offices may observe it, especially in regions like West Bengal, Bihar, and Assam.

Maha Shivaratri (February 14th, 2026 – Saturday)

Translated as the “Great Night of Shiva,” Maha Shivaratri is one of the most important and widely celebrated Hindu festivals. It commemorates the convergence of Shiva and Parvati and is also believed to be the night Shiva performed the ‘Tandava’ – the cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction. Devotees observe a strict fast, perform ‘lingam puja’ with offerings of milk, water, bel leaves, fruit, and sweets, and chant Vedic mantras. Temples dedicated to Lord Shiva are elaborately decorated, and devotees stay awake all night, meditating and performing rituals. Being on a Saturday, it typically won’t impact weekdays, but you can expect major temples and surrounding areas to be bustling with activity.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti (February 19th, 2026 – Thursday)

This regional state holiday, celebrated primarily in Maharashtra, honors the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. Shivaji is revered for his valor, administrative skills, and efforts in establishing a just and equitable rule. The day is celebrated with great fervor in Maharashtra, featuring parades, cultural programs, and historical reenactments. Government offices, schools, and many businesses in Maharashtra will be closed. If you’re traveling or conducting business in this state, particularly in cities like Mumbai or Pune, be aware of closures and potential disruptions.

Holika Dahan & Phalguna Purnima (February 28th, 2026 – Saturday)

Holika Dahan marks the beginning of the colorful Holi festivities and coincides with Phalguna Purnima, the full moon day in the Hindu month of Phalguna. The night before Holi, bonfires are lit to symbolize the triumph of good over evil, recalling the legend of Prahlada and Holika. People gather around these bonfires, sing, dance, and offer raw green chickpeas, wheat, and coconut. While Holika Dahan itself is not a public holiday, it’s a significant evening event, and many will be involved in preparations. This day sets the stage for Holi, which often follows the next day, though Holi in 2026 falls on March 1st. Expect an atmosphere of anticipation and community gatherings, especially in the evening.

Beyond the Major Dates: Other Notable Observances in February 2026

While not public holidays, several other days in February hold cultural and religious significance for Hindus, often involving specific rituals or fasting.

Key Fasting Days (Ekadashi & Chaturthi)

February 2026 includes two significant Ekadashi fasting days dedicated to Lord Vishnu: * Vijaya Ekadashi (February 12th, 2026 – Thursday): Observing a fast on this day is believed to ensure victory in life’s challenges and endeavors.
* Amalaki Ekadashi (February 27th, 2026 – Friday): This Ekadashi is dedicated to the Amla (Indian gooseberry) tree, which is considered sacred to Lord Vishnu. Fasting and worshipping the Amla tree are common practices. Additionally, Sankashti Chaturthi (February 8th, Sunday), is observed with fasting and prayers to Lord Ganesha, especially after sighting the moon in the evening, to overcome obstacles. These fasting days are generally observed individually and do not typically lead to widespread business closures, but many individuals will participate in religious observances.

Navigating India’s Diverse Calendar Systems for International Travelers & Businesses

For a US audience, understanding the nuances of India’s holidays can be a bit tricky. India doesn’t operate on a single, monolithic calendar system for its festivals, leading to dates that shift year to year on the Gregorian calendar. This is crucial for planning.

Gregorian vs. Lunisolar: Why Dates Shift

Most Indian religious festivals are determined by the Hindu lunisolar calendar (Panchang), which is based on the positions of the sun and moon. This means that while they fall on the same Tithi (lunar day) each year, their corresponding Gregorian calendar dates change. For example, Maha Shivaratri always falls on the 14th day of the dark fortnight of the month of Phalguna, but its Gregorian date varies. This is why a fixed-date Gregorian calendar isn’t sufficient for planning around Indian religious observances.

Understanding National, State, and Restricted Holidays

India’s holiday landscape is layered: * National Public Holidays: These are observed nationwide (Republic Day, Independence Day, Gandhi Jayanti). There are no national public holidays in February 2026.
* State Holidays: Many holidays are specific to individual states or regions, like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti in Maharashtra. These affect businesses and government offices only within that state.
* Religious Festivals & Observances: While widely celebrated, many religious festivals (like Vasant Panchami or Maha Shivaratri) are not official public holidays but are deeply significant. People may take leave, and businesses might see reduced staffing or altered hours. Some employers also offer a list of “Restricted Holidays” where employees can choose a limited number to observe. Always verify local holiday schedules if your plans involve specific regions or types of businesses.

Essential Tips for Planning Around February 2026 Indian Holidays

Whether you’re visiting India, managing a remote team there, or simply have business interests, here are some actionable tips to navigate February’s holidays effectively.

Travel Considerations

* Book in Advance: While February isn’t a peak holiday month for national closures, popular pilgrimage sites (especially Shiva temples for Maha Shivaratri) and major cultural centers can get very crowded. Book flights, trains, and accommodation well in advance if your travel coincides with a major festival in that region.
* Transportation: Public transport might be more crowded on festival days, and inter-state travel could see higher demand. Always factor in extra travel time.
* Closures: Be aware that local markets, banks, government offices, and some businesses might be closed or have reduced hours on state holidays or major festival days, particularly in the specific regions celebrating them. Museums and tourist attractions usually remain open but might have adjusted timings.

Business and Operations Impact

* Communicate Proactively: If you have teams or partners in India, communicate clearly about expected working days and potential closures during February. Understand which state holidays apply to their specific location.
* Adjust Deadlines: Build flexibility into project deadlines around key festival dates. Reduced staffing or closures can lead to delays.
* Bank Holidays: While February 2026 has no national bank holidays, state holidays can affect banking services in those specific states. Plan financial transactions accordingly.

Cultural Sensitivity and Participation

* Embrace the Experience: If you’re in India during a festival like Vasant Panchami or Maha Shivaratri, it’s a fantastic opportunity to witness and respectfully participate in local traditions. Ask locals about customs and etiquette.
* Respect Observances: Be mindful that many people will be fasting or performing special prayers. This can influence social interactions and dining habits.

Lunar Cycles in February 2026: An Indian Perspective

The moon’s phases are integral to the Hindu calendar, determining the timing of many festivals and auspicious days. Understanding these cycles provides deeper insight into the rhythm of Indian cultural life.

Key Moon Phases for February 2026

Here are the major lunar phases in February 2026, as per the Hindu calendar, and their significance:

Date	Day	Lunar Phase	Indian Name	Significance
February 1	Sunday	Full Moon ends	Magha Purnima	Marks the end of the full moon in the month of Magha, leading into the waning phase.
February 15	Sunday	New Moon	Amavasya	A day of spiritual significance, often for ancestral rituals (Tarpan) and fasting.
February 28	Saturday	Full Moon	Phalguna Purnima	Coincides with Holika Dahan, signifies the beginning of Holi, and is generally auspicious.

These moon phases are not just astronomical events; they anchor the Hindu religious calendar, influencing festival dates, fasting days, and auspicious timings for various rituals. For instance, Ekadashi fasts are observed on the 11th lunar day of both the waxing and waning moon cycles.

There you have it – your detailed guide to February 2026 with Indian holidays. By understanding these dates and their cultural significance, you can plan your month more effectively, whether you’re traveling, conducting business, or simply engaging with India’s rich traditions. Stay informed, plan smart, and embrace the vibrant spirit of India!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the major Indian holidays in February 2026?

February 2026 in India features several significant observances. Key dates include Guru Ravidas Jayanti (Feb 1), Vasant Panchami (Feb 2), Maha Shivaratri (Feb 14), Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti (Feb 19, a state holiday in Maharashtra), and Holika Dahan / Phalguna Purnima (Feb 28).

Are there any national public holidays in India in February 2026?

No, February 2026 does not have any national public holidays observed across all of India. The holidays in February are primarily religious festivals or state-specific public holidays.

How do Indian holidays in February 2026 affect travel and business?

While national closures are minimal, state-specific holidays like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti will close government offices and many businesses in Maharashtra. Major religious festivals like Maha Shivaratri can lead to crowded pilgrimage sites and temples, affecting local transport and services. Always check regional schedules and book travel in advance.

Why do Indian festival dates change each year on the Gregorian calendar?

Most Indian religious festivals follow the Hindu lunisolar calendar (Panchang), which is based on lunar cycles and solar positions. This means that while they occur on the same lunar day each year, their corresponding date on the Gregorian calendar (which is solar-based) shifts annually.

What is the significance of Maha Shivaratri in February 2026?

Maha Shivaratri (February 14, 2026) is the ‘Great Night of Shiva,’ a highly revered Hindu festival. Devotees observe fasts, perform rituals (Pujas) dedicated to Lord Shiva, and chant prayers. It commemorates the convergence of Shiva and Parvati and is a day for spiritual introspection and devotion.

What is Holika Dahan and its date in February 2026?

Holika Dahan (February 28, 2026) is a traditional bonfire ritual observed on the eve of Holi, coinciding with Phalguna Purnima (Full Moon). It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, based on the legend of Prahlada and Holika, and marks the beginning of the Holi festivities.