Festival
Holi 2027 date: Holika Dahan and Rangwali Holi (and when it was in 2026)
Holi 2027 falls on Monday 22 March (Rangwali Holi, the day of colours). Holika Dahan, the bonfire, is the evening before, on Sunday 21 March.
In 2026 Holi was on Wednesday 4 March. Holi always falls on the full moon (Purnima) of the month of Phalguna, which lands in March or late February.
Holi dates
| Year | Holika Dahan | Rangwali Holi |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Tuesday 3 March | Wednesday 4 March |
| 2027 | Sunday 21 March | Monday 22 March |
In Mathura, Vrindavan and Barsana celebrations start a week or more earlier, with Lathmar Holi and Phoolon wali Holi.
Checklist for the day of colours
- Buy natural or herbal colours a few days before: last-day stalls sell the cheapest synthetic ones.
- Oil your hair and skin the night before, so colours wash off more easily.
- Old clothes you do not mind losing, and sunglasses for the eyes.
- A waterproof pouch or zip bag for your phone.
- Cover or move anything outside the door that could get stained.
- Plan how to get home: many areas are closed to traffic until afternoon.
Planning Holi if you travel
Holi is a peak travel period in North India. Trains to Uttar Pradesh and Bihar fill as soon as the 60-day window opens: for Holi 2027 that is around 21 January.
Save the date now in MiRicordi with an alert on the booking day and another a week before for colours and sweets like gujiya.
Frequently asked questions
When is Holi in 2027?
Rangwali Holi is on Monday 22 March 2027. Holika Dahan is on the evening of Sunday 21 March.
When was Holi in 2026?
Holi 2026 was on Wednesday 4 March, with Holika Dahan on 3 March.
Why does Holi change date every year?
It falls on the full moon of Phalguna in the Hindu lunar calendar, which moves against the Gregorian calendar.