Days Until Holi

The Festival of Colors: Your Ultimate Guide to Holi

The streets are about to turn into a canvas, the air will be filled with laughter and colored powder, and the winter chill is finally giving way to the warmth of spring. Holi is not just a festival; it is an explosion of joy.

If you are checking "How many days until Holi?", you are likely preparing to stock up on Gulal (colored powder), cleaning your pichkaris (water guns), or planning a trip to Mathura or Vrindavan. Knowing the exact date is crucial because Holi moves every year based on the lunar calendar.

Our Live Holi Countdown Tool above calculates the precise timing based on the Phalguna Purnima (Full Moon). But beyond the timer, this guide is your comprehensive resource. We will explore the mythology of Holika Dahan, the science behind the colors, safety tips for your skin, and why this Indian festival has captivated the entire world.

When Is Holi 2026? (March 3, 2026)

Holi 2026, popularly known as the Festival of Colors, will be celebrated on March 3, 2026. It is one of the most joyful Hindu festivals, symbolizing the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring.

This live countdown shows exactly how many days, hours, minutes, and seconds remain until Holi begins. The date of Holi changes every year because it is based on the full moon (Purnima) of the Hindu lunar calendar.

Holi is celebrated across India and many parts of the world with colors, music, sweets, and togetherness. Use this tool to stay updated and plan your Holi celebrations in advance.

Unlike Diwali (which falls on a New Moon), Holi is celebrated on the Full Moon (Purnima) of the Hindu month of Phalguna. This typically corresponds to late February or March in the Gregorian calendar.

Why Do We Celebrate? (Prahlada & Krishna)

Holi has deep roots in ancient Indian mythology, with two primary legends defining its significance.

The Legend of Prahlad and Holika: King Hiranyakashipu demanded everyone worship him as a god. His son, Prahlad, refused and remained a devotee of Lord Vishnu. The king's sister, Holika (who was immune to fire), tricked Prahlad into sitting on a pyre with her. However, her immunity was lost because she used it for evil—she burned to ashes, while Prahlad survived unscathed. This is why we light bonfires: to celebrate the victory of devotion over arrogance.

The Legend of Krishna and Radha: In the Braj region (Mathura/Vrindavan), Holi celebrates the divine love of Radha and Krishna. Legend says young Krishna, who had dark blue skin, worried that fair-skinned Radha wouldn't like him. His mother, Yashoda, jokingly suggested he color Radha's face any color he wanted. He did, and thus the tradition of applying color (Gulal) was born.

Holi by the Numbers: A Global Phenomenon

Holi has transcended its religious roots to become a global celebration of unity and love. The economic and social impact is massive.

Your Countdown Strategy: Prep for the Splash

Holi is fun, but it can be tough on your skin and hair. Use our days until Holi timer to prepare yourself.

Holi Across India: Different Flavors

While color is the common theme, different regions celebrate in unique ways.

• Lathmar Holi (Barsana): Literally "Stick Holi." Women playfully beat men with sticks (lathis) while men protect themselves with shields. It reenacts Krishna teasing Radha and her friends chasing him away.
• Hola Mohalla (Punjab): Celebrated by Sikhs the day after Holi. It involves martial arts displays, horse riding, and poetry, showcasing physical strength.
• Basant Utsav (West Bengal): Started by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore at Shantiniketan. It focuses on music, dance, and yellow clothes to welcome spring.
• Phagu Purnima (Nepal): Celebrated with great fervor in Kathmandu. Tourists and locals gather in Durbar Square for a massive color fight.

Frequently Asked Questions