Festivals in March in India 2026

Holi, occurring on March 4th, 2026 , is one of India's most vibrant and joyful March festivals. Known as the Festival of Colors, Holi marks the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. Revelers throw colored powders and water at each other, dance, and sing, creating a lively and colorful atmosphere. Traditional foods such as gujiya (sweet dumplings) and thandai (a spiced milk drink) are enjoyed during the celebrations. Holi fosters social harmony and joy, bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds. The festival's vitality and energy symbolize the renewal of life and the triumph of joy and unity over discord.

Dol Jatra, celebrated on March 14, 2025, is a traditional festival observed primarily in West Bengal and Assam. Also known as Dol Purnima, it marks the arrival of spring and honours Lord Krishna. Participants play with coloured powders and water, sing devotional songs, and engage in vibrant processions. The festival is celebrated joyfully and enthusiastically, reflecting the region's cultural richness. As one of the significant March festivals in India, Dol Jatra fosters community spirit and celebration, with local fairs, traditional dances, and festive foods adding to the lively atmosphere. The festival symbolises the renewal of life and the vibrancy of spring.

Ram Navami, celebrated on 26 March  2026, marks the birth of Lord Rama, a revered figure in Hinduism. This festival is observed with great devotion across India, involving special prayers, recitations from the Ramayana, and processions. Temples and homes are decorated, and devotees engage in various rituals to honour Lord Rama’s virtues of righteousness and dharma. Vibrant celebrations, including devotional songs, dance performances, and feasts, highlight the day. As one of the prominent Indian festivals, March, Ram Navami reflects Lord Rama's cultural and spiritual significance, promoting values of virtue, integrity, and devotion throughout the country.

Gudi Padwa, celebrated on March 30, 2025, is a significant Marathi festival marking the New Year and the onset of spring. Outside homes, the festival involves hoisting a Gudi, a decorated banner symbolising prosperity and victory. Traditional rituals include prayers, preparing festive foods like puran poli, and cleaning and decorating homes. As a significant festival in March, Gudi Padwa is a time for families to come together, exchange greetings, and celebrate with cultural events. The festival signifies new beginnings and is observed with enthusiasm across Maharashtra. It is an occasion to honour the rich cultural heritage and express gratitude for the year's blessings.

Mahavir Swami Jayanti celebrates the birth of the Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, on the 13th day of Chaitra, which usually falls in April. Devotees honour his teachings and non-violence truth and compassion through prayer services, processions and discourses on Jail philosophy. Temples are decorated, and Jains carry out charitable acts such as feeding people experiencing poverty. Festivals in April 2026 will include special programs dedicated to spreading Mahavira's message of peace and harmony. This day holds the deep spiritual significance of Jains and offers a time for reflection on the various virtues that Lord Mahavira embodied. 

Ugadi, observed on March 30, 2025 , marks the Telugu and Kannada New Year, celebrated with great enthusiasm in the southern states of India. The festival signifies the start of the new lunar year. It is characterized by preparing unique dishes like Ugadi Pachadi, a mixture of sweet, sour, spicy, and bitter flavors symbolizing life's diverse experiences. Homes are adorned with mango leaves, and people perform rituals to seek prosperity and health for the coming year. As one of the important Indian festivals of March, Ugadi brings families together for prayers, feasts, and cultural activities, celebrating new beginnings and cultural traditions with joy and optimism.

Chaitra Navratri, beginning on March 30, 2025, is a nine-day Hindu festival dedicated to Goddess Durga. It marks the start of the Hindu lunar calendar and involves fasting, praying, and worshipping the goddess in her various forms. Each day of Navratri is dedicated to a different incarnation of Durga, with devotees engaging in devotional activities, including reciting hymns and participating in vibrant processions. As a significant March month festival 2025, Chaitra Navratri includes elaborate rituals, community gatherings, and cultural events, celebrating the divine feminine power and reinforcing spiritual and cultural values. The festival concludes with Ram Navami, commemorating the birth of Lord Rama.

The Mewar Festival, held from March 21, 2026, is a prominent cultural celebration in Udaipur, Rajasthan. This festival coincides with spring's arrival and showcases the Mewar region's rich cultural heritage. The festival features traditional music, dance performances, and local crafts, providing a vibrant display of Rajasthani culture. As one of the notable festivals in March, the Mewar Festival attracts tourists and locals alike, highlighting the region's historical and cultural significance. Events include colourful processions, folk dances, and traditional art and craft exhibitions, creating a festive atmosphere that celebrates Mewar's heritage and communal spirit.

The Float Festival in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, held in Febuary, is a spectacular celebration of devotion and culture. This unique festival sees Lord Sundareswarar's and Goddess Meenakshi's idols placed on elaborately decorated floats and taken around the Mariamman Teppakulam tank. The floats, adorned with flowers and lights, create a mesmerizing sight as they glide across the water. Accompanied by traditional music and vibrant processions, the festival attracts devotees and tourists alike. As one of the enchanting festivals in Febuary, the Float Festival offers a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Tamil Nadu, making it a memorable experience for all who attend.