February 2026 Tamil Calendar With Holidays

Your Definitive Guide to the February 2026 Tamil Calendar: Festivals, Auspicious Days, and Cultural Insights

Are you looking to connect with your Tamil heritage, plan spiritual observances, or simply understand the rhythm of the Tamil calendar for February 2026? Perhaps you’re in the USA, navigating a culture that often feels worlds away from the ancient traditions of Tamil Nadu, and you need a reliable, clear resource.

Forget sifting through cluttered websites with confusing data. I’m here to give you the most accurate, human-friendly breakdown of February 2026 in the Tamil calendar, specifically tailored for those living outside India. We’ll explore the key festivals, auspicious timings, and what it all means for you, right here, right now.

February 2026 Tamil Calendar at a Glance: Key Dates You Can’t Miss

Let’s kick things off with a quick overview. February 2026 is a month rich with spiritual significance and opportunities for devotion. Here’s a summary of the major events so you can mark your personal calendars immediately.

English Date	Day	Tamil Month & Key Tithi	Key Festival/Event
February 1, 2026	Sunday	Maasi / Pournami	Magha Purnima Vrat / Pournami (Full Moon)
February 5, 2026	Thursday	Maasi / Chaturthi	Sankashti Chaturthi (for Ganesha)
February 13, 2026	Friday	Maasi / Ekadashi	Vijaya Ekadashi / Kumbha Sankranti
February 17, 2026	Tuesday	Maasi / Amavasai	Amavasai (New Moon)
February 18, 2026	Wednesday	Maasi / Prathamai	Chandra Darshan (First Sighting of New Moon)
February 23, 2026	Monday	Maasi / Prathamai to Dwitiya	Karthigai Vratham / Sri Somavara Vratam

This table gives you the essential dates. Now, let’s dive deeper into what makes these days special and how they are observed.

Unpacking the Auspicious: Major Festivals and Holy Observances in February 2026

The Tamil calendar is deeply intertwined with spiritual practices and cultural celebrations. Each festival carries its own unique stories, rituals, and blessings. For those of us in the USA, observing these can be a powerful way to maintain cultural identity and spiritual connection.

Magha Purnima Vrat (February 1st, 2026)

The month of Maasi (equivalent to parts of February and March) begins with a significant day: Magha Purnima Vrat, coinciding with the full moon. Purnima, or the full moon day, is considered highly auspicious in Hindu traditions. On Magha Purnima, devotees often observe a fast (vrat) to seek blessings, perform holy dips in sacred rivers (though for those in the USA, this might translate to a ritual bath at home or visiting a local temple), and offer prayers to Lord Vishnu. It’s a day for spiritual purification, charity, and introspection. Many believe that performing good deeds on this day brings immense merit and helps cleanse past sins.

Sankashti Chaturthi (February 5th, 2026)

Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, Sankashti Chaturthi is observed on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon). Devotees typically fast from sunrise to moonrise, breaking their fast only after sighting the moon and offering prayers to Ganesha. The word “Sankashti” means deliverance from trouble. Observing this vratam is believed to bring prosperity, happiness, and remove hurdles in one’s life. It’s a wonderful day to focus on new beginnings and seeking divine blessings for clear paths ahead.

Vijaya Ekadashi (February 13th, 2026)

Ekadashi, the eleventh day of each lunar fortnight, is sacred to Lord Vishnu. Among the 24 Ekadashis in a year, Vijaya Ekadashi is particularly significant for its promise of victory (Vijaya). It falls in the Krishna Paksha of the Tamil month of Maasi. Observing a strict fast on this day, refraining from grains and often water, is believed to help devotees conquer challenges, attain salvation, and achieve success in their endeavors. Reading the Vishnu Sahasranamam or chanting Vishnu mantras are common practices. This is also the day of Kumbha Sankranti, marking the sun’s entry into the zodiac sign of Aquarius, which is also considered a time for spiritual practices.

Amavasai (February 17th, 2026)

Amavasai, the new moon day, holds profound significance for ancestral worship and performing Pitru Tharpanam (offerings to ancestors). While it’s generally considered inauspicious for starting new ventures, it’s highly auspicious for spiritual practices aimed at honoring and seeking blessings from departed ancestors. Many Tamil families in the USA continue this tradition, performing simple rituals at home or visiting temples to offer prayers for their forefathers. It’s a day for reflection on family lineage and connection.

Chandra Darshan (February 18th, 2026)

Immediately following Amavasai, the day the first crescent of the moon is sighted after the new moon is known as Chandra Darshan. Seeing the new moon is considered highly auspicious, especially after the moonless night of Amavasai. Devotees offer prayers to Chandra (the Moon God) and observe a fast. It’s believed to bring good fortune, prosperity, and mental peace. For many, it’s a symbolic start of a new lunar cycle, filled with hope and positive energy.

Karthigai Vratham (February 23rd, 2026)

Karthigai Vratham is dedicated to Lord Murugan (Kartikeya), the son of Lord Shiva and Parvati. It is observed when the Karthigai Nakshatram (star) falls on a Monday or a day auspicious for Murugan. Devotees observe fasts, visit Murugan temples, and light lamps (deepams) to seek his blessings for courage, wisdom, and success. The Karthigai Deepam festival, a grander celebration, occurs in a different month, but monthly Karthigai Vratham are important for devotees of Lord Murugan. This day may also coincide with Sri Somavara Vratam, a fast observed on Mondays (Somavaram) in honor of Lord Shiva.

Navigating February 2026: Important Days and Timings from the Tamil Panchangam

The Panchangam is the cornerstone of the Tamil calendar, providing daily astrological information crucial for identifying auspicious and inauspicious timings. Understanding its elements can empower you to plan your days more effectively, aligning your actions with favorable cosmic energies.

Amavasai (New Moon) and Pournami (Full Moon) in February 2026

As mentioned, these are vital lunar phases:

• Pournami (Full Moon): February 1st, 2026. Excellent for meditation, spiritual practices, and seeking blessings.
• Amavasai (New Moon): February 17th, 2026. Best for ancestral rites and spiritual reflection, generally avoided for new beginnings.

Understanding Rahu Kalam, Yamagandam, and Kuligai in February

These are specific periods each day considered inauspicious for starting new endeavors, significant journeys, or performing important ceremonies. While their exact timings vary slightly based on geographical location (even within the USA), here’s a general guide. It’s always best to consult a local Tamil calendar or Panchangam for precise times in your specific area.

Day of the Week	Rahu Kalam (Approx.)	Yamagandam (Approx.)	Kuligai (Approx.)
Sunday	4:30 PM – 6:00 PM	12:00 PM – 1:30 PM	3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Monday	7:30 AM – 9:00 AM	10:30 AM – 12:00 PM	1:30 PM – 3:00 PM
Tuesday	3:00 PM – 4:30 PM	9:00 AM – 10:30 AM	12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Wednesday	12:00 PM – 1:30 PM	7:30 AM – 9:00 AM	10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Thursday	1:30 PM – 3:00 PM	6:00 AM – 7:30 AM	9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Friday	10:30 AM – 12:00 PM	3:00 PM – 4:30 PM	7:30 AM – 9:00 AM
Saturday	9:00 AM – 10:30 AM	1:30 PM – 3:00 PM	6:00 AM – 7:30 AM

• Rahu Kalam: Associated with the shadow planet Rahu, this period is generally avoided for auspicious undertakings.
• Yamagandam: Linked to Yama, the god of death, also considered inauspicious.
• Kuligai: Connected to Kuligan, son of Shani (Saturn), this period is believed to prolong activities, good or bad. Many avoid new ventures during Kuligai, but some may use it for repetitive tasks they wish to continue.

Understanding these timings helps you make informed decisions, whether you’re planning a puja, signing a document, or scheduling a significant event. Of course, sometimes life happens, and you can’t always avoid these periods. The intention behind your actions often holds greater weight.

Subha Muhurtham: Auspicious Times for New Beginnings

While a general list of Subha Muhurtham (auspicious times) would be too broad without specific needs and locations, it’s important to know what it is. Subha Muhurtham refers to specific time windows deemed highly favorable for significant life events like weddings, housewarmings, starting a new business, or embarking on long journeys. These are calculated based on a complex interplay of the Hindu calendar‘s Tithi, Nakshatra, Yoga, Karana, and planetary positions.

For truly personalized and accurate Subha Muhurtham timings for important life events, it is highly recommended to consult with a qualified astrologer who can factor in your birth chart and specific location in the USA.

Your Day-by-Day February 2026 Tamil Calendar: Beyond the Headlines

For those who want to track the daily nuances of the Tamil calendar, here’s a detailed breakdown. Remember, the Tamil month of Maasi spans parts of February and March 2026. This table provides key Panchangam elements for each day, offering deeper insights into the daily energies.

English Date	Day	Tamil Tithi (Lunar Day)	Tamil Nakshatra (Star)	Rahu Kalam (Approx.)	Major Festival/Notes
Feb 1	Sunday	Pournami	Magha	4:30 PM – 6:00 PM	Magha Purnima Vrat
Feb 2	Monday	Prathamai	Purva Phalguni	7:30 AM – 9:00 AM	Begin Krishna Paksha
Feb 3	Tuesday	Dwitiya	Purva Phalguni / Uttara Phalguni	3:00 PM – 4:30 PM	Good for travel
Feb 4	Wednesday	Tritiya	Uttara Phalguni / Hasta	12:00 PM – 1:30 PM	Auspicious for education
Feb 5	Thursday	Chaturthi	Hasta / Chitra	1:30 PM – 3:00 PM	Sankashti Chaturthi
Feb 6	Friday	Panchami	Chitra / Swati	10:30 AM – 12:00 PM	Good for agreements
Feb 7	Saturday	Shashti	Swati / Vishakha	9:00 AM – 10:30 AM	Day for spiritual practices
Feb 8	Sunday	Saptami	Vishakha / Anuradha	4:30 PM – 6:00 PM	Auspicious for partnerships
Feb 9	Monday	Ashtami	Anuradha / Jyeshta	7:30 AM – 9:00 AM	Day for Goddess worship
Feb 10	Tuesday	Navami	Jyeshta / Moola	3:00 PM – 4:30 PM	Avoid new ventures
Feb 11	Wednesday	Dasami	Moola / Purva Ashadha	12:00 PM – 1:30 PM	Good for settling disputes
Feb 12	Thursday	Ekadashi	Purva Ashadha	1:30 PM – 3:00 PM	Prepare for Vijaya Ekadashi
Feb 13	Friday	Ekadashi	Purva Ashadha / Uttara Ashadha	10:30 AM – 12:00 PM	Vijaya Ekadashi / Kumbha Sankranti
Feb 14	Saturday	Dwadashi	Uttara Ashadha / Sravana	9:00 AM – 10:30 AM	Parana after fast
Feb 15	Sunday	Trayodashi	Sravana / Dhanishta	4:30 PM – 6:00 PM	Good for home activities
Feb 16	Monday	Chaturdashi	Dhanishta / Shatabhisha	7:30 AM – 9:00 AM	Pre-Amavasai observances
Feb 17	Tuesday	Amavasai	Shatabhisha / Purva Bhadrapada	3:00 PM – 4:30 PM	Amavasai (Ancestor worship)
Feb 18	Wednesday	Prathamai	Purva Bhadrapada / Uttara Bhadrapada	12:00 PM – 1:30 PM	Chandra Darshan (Begin Shukla Paksha)
Feb 19	Thursday	Dwitiya	Uttara Bhadrapada / Revati	1:30 PM – 3:00 PM	Good for new ventures
Feb 20	Friday	Tritiya	Revati / Ashwini	10:30 AM – 12:00 PM	Auspicious for travel
Feb 21	Saturday	Chaturthi	Ashwini / Bharani	9:00 AM – 10:30 AM	Day for Ganesha worship
Feb 22	Sunday	Panchami	Bharani / Krittika	4:30 PM – 6:00 PM	Good for legal matters
Feb 23	Monday	Shashti	Krittika	7:30 AM – 9:00 AM	Karthigai Vratham / Sri Somavara Vratam
Feb 24	Tuesday	Saptami	Rohini	3:00 PM – 4:30 PM	Auspicious for new ventures
Feb 25	Wednesday	Ashtami	Mrigasira	12:00 PM – 1:30 PM	Day for Devi worship
Feb 26	Thursday	Navami	Ardra	1:30 PM – 3:00 PM	Avoid new ventures
Feb 27	Friday	Dasami	Punarvasu	10:30 AM – 12:00 PM	Good for property matters
Feb 28	Saturday	Ekadashi	Pushya	9:00 AM – 10:30 AM	Amalaki Ekadashi (or similar, typically in Feb/Mar)

Note: The Tithi and Nakshatra sometimes span across two English dates or change mid-day. The timings for Rahu Kalam are approximate and can vary by geographic location within the USA. For precise local timings, it is advisable to consult a location-specific Panchangam.

February 2026: Tamil Nadu Government Holidays vs. Universal Tamil Observances (USA Context)

This is a crucial distinction for many of you reading this in the USA. When you look up “Tamil Calendar with Holidays,” many resources, especially those originating from India, will list Tamil Nadu Government Holidays. These are public holidays recognized by the state government of Tamil Nadu, India, meaning banks, schools, and offices in that region might be closed.

However, for Tamils residing in the United States, these are generally not recognized as official public holidays by federal or state governments. For example, while Pongal might be a public holiday in Tamil Nadu, it is not a day off work or school in the USA. The “holidays” we focus on in the USA context are the cultural and religious observances that allow you to connect with your heritage, such as:

• Fasting on Ekadashi or Chaturthi.
• Performing pujas or special prayers at home or local temples.
• Observing ancestor rituals on Amavasai.
• Gathering with family and friends to celebrate festivals like Pongal (even if it fell in January for 2026).

It’s vital to remember this distinction to avoid confusion. Your workplace or school in the USA will operate on federal and state holiday schedules, not the Tamil Nadu government’s calendar.

How to Best Utilize Your February 2026 Tamil Calendar in the USA

So, you have all this information – but how do you actually use it to enrich your life in the USA?

1. Plan Your Spiritual Practice: Use the calendar to schedule your fasts (like Ekadashi or Sankashti Chaturthi), special prayers, or temple visits. Knowing the dates in advance allows for better preparation.
2. Connect with Community: Many Tamil associations and temples in the USA organize events around major festivals. Knowing the calendar helps you stay informed and participate in community celebrations, fostering a sense of belonging far from home.
3. Family Engagement: Involve your children in learning about these traditions. Use the calendar to explain the significance of each festival and encourage participation in simple rituals, passing on cultural values.
4. Personal Planning: While not for critical life events without astrological consultation, you can use the Rahu Kalam, Yamagandam, and Kuligai timings as a general guide for scheduling less significant personal activities or reflective periods.
5. Educational Tool: For those interested in learning about Hindu culture and Tamil traditions, this calendar serves as an excellent educational resource. Understand the lunar cycles, the significance of different Tithis and Nakshatras, and how they shape cultural life.

Embracing the Tamil calendar in your daily life, even in a Western country, is a beautiful way to honor your roots and cultivate a deeper spiritual connection.

Beyond February: Looking Ahead with the Tamil Calendar

February is just one month in the vibrant Tamil calendar year. Each month, with its unique festivals and astrological influences, offers fresh opportunities for spiritual growth and cultural engagement. The Tamil calendar, based on sidereal calculations, follows a consistent pattern, allowing you to anticipate major events year after year.

Staying connected to these cycles provides a deeper understanding of time, nature, and the spiritual rhythm of life, no matter where in the world you reside. It’s a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern living, a tool for enriching your personal and cultural journey.

I hope this comprehensive guide to the February 2026 Tamil Calendar with Holidays has provided you with clarity, cultural insight, and practical ways to integrate these traditions into your life in the USA. May your February be filled with blessings and meaningful connections!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary Tamil month in February 2026?

February 2026 primarily falls within the Tamil month of Maasi. This month is significant for various spiritual observances and festivals, marking a transition period in the Tamil calendar.

What are the major Tamil festivals or holidays in February 2026?

Key observances in February 2026 include Magha Purnima Vrat (Feb 1), Sankashti Chaturthi (Feb 5), Vijaya Ekadashi (Feb 13), Amavasai (Feb 17), Chandra Darshan (Feb 18), and Karthigai Vratham (Feb 23). These are primarily religious and cultural observances rather than public holidays in the USA.

How do Tamil Nadu Government Holidays differ for someone in the USA?

Tamil Nadu Government Holidays are official public holidays recognized only within the state of Tamil Nadu, India. For individuals in the USA, these are not recognized as days off from work or school. The focus in the USA is on cultural and religious observances that can be integrated into personal or community life.

What is Rahu Kalam and why is it important in the Tamil calendar?

Rahu Kalam is a specific period each day, lasting approximately 90 minutes, that is considered inauspicious for starting new ventures, signing important documents, or embarking on significant journeys. It’s associated with the shadow planet Rahu and is observed to avoid potential obstacles or negative outcomes.

Are there any auspicious days for new beginnings in February 2026?

While general auspicious periods exist, highly significant new beginnings like weddings or major investments require personalized astrological consultation (Subha Muhurtham) based on your birth details and exact location. However, days outside of Rahu Kalam, Yamagandam, and Kuligai, especially those with favorable Tithis and Nakshatras, are generally considered better for positive activities.

How can I find accurate daily Panchangam timings for my specific location in the USA?

For highly precise daily Panchangam timings (including Rahu Kalam, Yamagandam, Kuligai, and Tithi/Nakshatra changes) specific to your exact location in the USA, it is best to consult a reputable online Panchangam tool that allows for location selection, or a local Tamil temple priest/astrologer.