Festive Calendar 2026: Dates, Events & Travel Guide

Festival observances can vary by local tradition and regional calendars. Event-specific timings and ticket details should be checked with organizers.

Sharad Navratri begins on 11 October and concludes with Dussehra on 20 October 2026.

Ahmedabad, Gujarat: Known for large Navratri celebrations, traditional Garba performances, and cultural gatherings.

Vadodara, Gujarat: Famous for its enthusiastic Garba culture and organized dance events.

Surat, Gujarat: Offers a mixture of traditional celebrations and modern Navratri events.

Delhi NCR: Cultural associations, residential communities, and event organizers host Garba and Dandiya nights in different locations.

• Confirm event dates, venue, and ticket availability before travelling.
• Check whether entry requires advance registration.
• Allow extra time for evening traffic near popular venues.
• Verify parking availability and pickup locations.
• Arrange safe transportation for late-night returns.

For travelers attending several celebrations, planning the route in advance can help reduce unnecessary travel between venues.

Halloween falls on Saturday, 31 October 2026, making it a convenient date for weekend celebrations.

Delhi NCR: Restaurants, entertainment venues, and event organizers may host costume parties and themed experiences.

Mumbai: Nightlife venues and private event organizers often arrange Halloween-themed celebrations.

Bengaluru: Popular for social events, costume gatherings, and themed entertainment.

Goa: Travellers may find Halloween-themed parties at selected hospitality and entertainment venues.

Check the venue’s entry policy, age restrictions, ticket availability, and event timings before booking.

If you are travelling late at night, plan your return journey in advance. Event schedules and transport availability can vary considerably between locations.

Diwali is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India. In 2026, the main Diwali celebration falls on Sunday, 8 November.

• 6 November: Dhanteras
• 7 November: Chhoti Diwali
• 8 November: Diwali
• 10 November: Govardhan Puja
• 11 November: Bhai Dooj

Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh: Known for Deepotsav celebrations and illuminated riverfront areas. Travellers should verify the official event programme and crowd-management arrangements.

Jaipur, Rajasthan: Popular for festive markets, decorated shopping areas, and heritage attractions.

Delhi: Markets, neighborhoods, and cultural spaces offer a lively festive atmosphere.

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: Temples, riverfront areas, and traditional celebrations attract visitors during the festival season.

Families travelling with children or elderly passengers should also consider luggage requirements and convenient pickup arrangements.

In the festive calendar 2026, Chhath Puja takes place from 13 to 16 November.

13 November – Nahay Khay

The festival begins with purification rituals and the preparation of traditional food.

14 November – Kharna

Devotees observe fasting traditions and prepare offerings according to family customs.

15 November – Sandhya Arghya

Devotees gather near rivers, ponds, and designated ghats to offer prayers to the setting sun.

16 November – Usha Arghya

The final morning includes offerings to the rising sun, marking the conclusion of the four-day observance.

Patna, Bihar: One of the most significant destinations for Chhath celebrations, with rituals performed at designated Ganga ghats.

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: Riverfront locations host traditional observances.

Delhi NCR: Chhath celebrations take place at authorized ghats and community locations.

Avoid entering restricted riverfront areas and follow official safety instructions.

For exact festival dates and local timings, travellers can consult the Chhath Puja calendar on Drik Panchang.

In 2026, Dev Deepawali falls on Tuesday, 24 November.

Dashashwamedh Ghat: A prominent riverfront location associated with Ganga Aarti and religious ceremonies.

Assi Ghat: A well-known ghat popular with visitors exploring the riverfront.

Rajendra Prasad Ghat: Located near the central riverfront celebration area.

Other Ganga Ghats: Numerous ghats participate in the traditional lighting of lamps.

The exact event program, viewing arrangements, and crowd restrictions should be confirmed closer to the festival.

• Book accommodation early because Varanasi attracts many visitors.
• Check local traffic diversions and pedestrian-only zones.
• Reach permitted viewing areas well before major evening activities.
• Avoid overcrowded riverfront access points.
• Use only authorized boat operators and follow safety requirements.
• Respect religious ceremonies and local customs.

For festival timing information, refer to the Dev Deepawali 2026 calendar.

Whether you are attending a Garba night, visiting relatives during Diwali, or planning a trip to Varanasi for Dev Deepawali, advance planning can make the journey more convenient.

Book Accommodation and Tickets Early

Hotels and event tickets may become more expensive or difficult to find as popular festival dates approach.

Check cancellation policies before making bookings.

Check Traffic and Local Restrictions

Large festivals may involve temporary road closures, parking restrictions, crowd-control measures, and changes to public transport.

Consult official local advisories before leaving.

Choose Transportation Based on Your Itinerary

Public transport may be suitable for certain routes, while pre-booked transportation can be useful for families, groups, airport transfers, and journeys involving multiple stops.

Always confirm service availability, pickup locations, and applicable charges in advance.

Allow Time for Unexpected Delays

Festival traffic can be unpredictable. Build additional travel time into your itinerary, particularly when connecting to flights, trains, or scheduled events.

The best celebration depends on the kind of travel experience you are looking for.

If you enjoy music, dance and colourful community gatherings, Garba nights in Gujarat may be an appealing choice.

For a lively weekend celebration, Halloween-themed events offer a different entertainment experience.

Travellers interested in traditional family celebrations may prefer Diwali, while those seeking to experience important cultural and religious observances can consider Chhath Puja.

For photography, riverfront scenery and a distinctive festival atmosphere, Dev Deepawali in Varanasi is a particularly memorable occasion.

Each event has its own traditions, travel conditions and visitor arrangements, so it is worth researching the destination before finalising your plans.

When does Navratri begin in 2026?

Sharad Navratri begins on 11 October 2026, with Dussehra on 20 October.

When is Halloween in India in 2026?

Halloween falls on Saturday, 31 October 2026.

What is the date of Diwali in 2026?

The main Diwali celebration falls on Sunday, 8 November 2026.

When is Chhath Puja in 2026?

The four-day Chhath Puja observance runs from 13 to 16 November, with Sandhya Arghya on 15 November.

When is Dev Deepawali in Varanasi in 2026?

Dev Deepawali falls on Tuesday, 24 November 2026.

Is Dev Deepawali the same as Diwali?

No. Diwali and Dev Deepawali are separate celebrations observed on different dates, with distinct traditions and religious significance.

Conclusion

Each celebration offers something different, from music and community gatherings to traditional rituals and illuminated riverfronts.

Whether you are planning a short city visit or a longer festive journey, checking event schedules, arranging accommodation and preparing transportation in advance can help you travel more comfortably.