(Updated November 21, 2025)
Holi is one of the most joyful, energetic, and visually stunning celebrations on the planet. Known as the Festival of Colors, the Festival of Spring, and the Festival of Love, Holi brings communities together to celebrate renewal, connection, forgiveness, and hope. And with Holi gaining popularity worldwide, more people than ever are joining in the fun with color throwing, music, dancing, and cultural celebrations.
Whether you’re hosting your own Holi event or attending one of the many celebrations around the world, here’s everything you need to know for Holi in 2026—traditions, tips, events, and how to celebrate safely with color powder.
Holi follows the Hindu lunar calendar and arrives in late winter or early spring.
In 2026, Holi will be celebrated on Monday, March 2.
Some celebrations begin the night before with Holika Dahan, a bonfire gathering meant to symbolize the triumph of good over evil. The following day is Rangwali Holi—the vibrant color celebration you’ve seen in photos and videos.
The tradition of throwing colors comes from ancient stories of Krishna and Radha, symbolizing love, playfulness, and joy. Over time, communities embraced bright colors to welcome spring, wash away negativity, and celebrate renewal.
Today, the tradition is both cultural and universal. Even people outside India now celebrate Holi as a way to embrace unity, color, and happiness.
If you’re hosting your own Holi celebration this year, you can find safe, vibrant powders here.
Traditional Holi powder—gulal—was originally made from plants, turmeric, flowers, and herbs. Modern color powder is typically made from cornstarch and cosmetic-grade dyes.
When choosing powder for Holi:
Look for non-toxic, skin-safe, food-grade ingredients.
Choose powders that are easy to clean and biodegradable.
Use powder that produces bright, vibrant colors for your event or photo ops.
You can learn more in our full guide here.
Holi is joyful—but a little preparation helps make the celebration even better.
Dress for color. Wear white clothing you don’t mind getting stained.
Protect hair if needed—oil it or wear a bandana.
Protect the eyes with sunglasses.
Use powder outdoors or in well-ventilated areas.
Choose open fields, parks, or parking lots for clean and simple setup.
If you want to attend a Holi celebration instead of hosting one yourself, here are some great options around the world for 2026:
Mathura & Vrindavan
Home of the original Holi traditions. Celebrations here last an entire week.
Info: Uttar Pradesh Tourism
Jaipur, Rajasthan
Beautiful processions, music, and cultural events.
Info: Rajasthan Tourism
Delhi
City-wide parties, Holi festivals, and family-frie
ndly gatherings.
Check local listings closer to the date.
Festival of Colors USA (multiple cities)
Family-friendly traveling Holi festival with live music, dancing, yoga, and color throwing.
Info: Festival of Colors USA
New York & New Jersey Holi Celebrations
Large South Asian communities host some of the biggest Holi events in the U.S.
Search “Holi NYC 2026” or “Holi NJ 2026” as dates are announced.
California Holi Festivals (Los Angeles, Bay Area)
Events hosted by cultural groups and temples.
Info (common organizer): BAPS
London Holi Festival
One of Europe’s most popular Holi celebrations.
Info: Holi Festival London
Toronto & Vancouver Holi Festivals
Outdoor community celebrations with music, food, and color throwing.
Check local community pages in early spring.
Sydney & Melbourne Holi Events
Large multicultural color festivals and temple events.
Search for “Holi Festival Australia 2026” closer to March.
If you’re hosting a school event, community gathering, or festival, here’s what to consider:
Order color powder early (Holi season gets busy).
Use a variety of colors for a more vibrant experience.
Plan a countdown for the big throw moment.
Set up a designated “color zone.”
Provide guests with bandanas, sunglasses, or small packets to toss.
Explore color options in our shop.
Holi continues to grow worldwide, bringing people together through color, music, and community. Whether you’re attending a major festival, hosting your own Holi gathering, or celebrating with family and friends, Holi 2026 is shaping up to be bigger and brighter than ever.
If you need help choosing the right color powder or planning your event, our team is always here to help.
Explore Holi products and planning resources here.
