Diwali school holidays 2026: Why some states may get a longer break even though Diwali falls on Sunday
Diwali will be celebrated on November 8, followed by Govardhan Puja on November 9 and Bhaiya Dooj on November 11. Some states may observe longer holidays in November. Here's all you need to know.
In November 2026, students across India are set to enjoy a series of school holidays coinciding with various regional festivals. The month kicks off with Diwali on Sunday, November 8, followed by Govardhan Puja on November 9 and Bhai Dooj on November 11. Chhath Puja is observed on November 15. However, holiday schedules may vary between government, private and individual schools.
While many employees will not have an additional day off as Diwali falls on a Sunday, students in some states may get a longer break. For instance, in Maharashtra, schools are set to observe a 13-day Diwali vacation from November 2 to November 14. Similarly, in Rajasthan, schools are expected to close from November 4 to November 15.
In Sikkim, Laxmi Puja (Deepawali) is celebrated on November 9, 10, and 11, with Chhath Puja observed on November 15. In Odisha, the holiday of Rahas Purnima is observed on November 24. West Bengal observes Bhratridwitiya on November 11. In Uttar Pradesh, Diwali is celebrated on November 8 and Narak Chaturdashi on November 8, while Bhai Dooj is observed on November 11, Chitragupta Jayanti on November 11, and Guru Nanak Jayanti on November 24.
In contrast, Gujarat and Kerala do not observe Diwali as a public holiday. In Delhi, Diwali is a gazetted holiday on November 8, and Chhath Puja is celebrated on November 15. In Kerala, Diwali is a public holiday on November 7.
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