Last Updated:
Several government and public holidays are scheduled in January 2026. Here’s a list of key dates when schools are likely to be closed across India or in specific states.
Major holidays in January for schools include January 1, 14, and 26. (AI Generated Image)
As the year 2026 begins, students and teachers are eagerly anticipating the holidays. January is known not only for its harsh winters and winter vacations but also for celebrating numerous national and regional festivals. From New Year’s Day to Republic Day, January offers many holiday opportunities, providing a break from studies and a chance to spend time with family.
In northern Indian states, schools remain closed for several days in January due to the cold wave, while in southern India, festivals like Pongal are celebrated. Several government and public holidays are scheduled this month. Here’s a list of key dates when schools are likely to be closed across India or in specific states:
| Date | Day | Occasion |
| January 1 | Thursday | English New Year |
| January 14 | Wednesday | Makar Sankranti / Pongal / Magh Bihu |
| January 15 | Thursday | Pongal (in South Indian states) |
| January 23 | Friday | Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s Birth Anniversary (West Bengal) |
| January 26 | Monday | Republic Day (National Holiday) |
In states like Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan, the winter vacation, which began in late December, will continue until the first or second week of January. The Haryana government has announced that all schools in the state will have winter vacations from January 1 to January 15, 2026. Similarly, schools in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh may also have extended vacations due to the cold wave.
Makar Sankranti will be celebrated across the country on January 14, 2026. In Gujarat, it is celebrated as Uttarayan, where schools are closed for two days. In Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, the Pongal festival runs from January 14 to 17, resulting in extended school holidays. Assam also observes a holiday for Magh Bihu. Students are advised to check the 2026 school holiday calendar before planning their vacations.
January 26, 2026, falls on a Monday. As a national holiday, schools, colleges, and government offices across the country will be closed. Most private offices will also be closed. Many schools have weekly holidays on Saturday (January 24) and Sunday (January 25).
The list of holidays may vary in different states of India, depending on the education board (CBSE, ICSE, or state board). For example, in West Bengal, January 23 is a holiday for Netaji Jayanti, while in other states it may be a regular working day. Similarly, in some states, schools are closed on Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti (January 6). Additionally, district magistrates may extend winter vacations depending on weather conditions.
January 01, 2026, 17:49 IST
Read More
