West Bengal Holidays in 2026

The list of holidays in West Bengal in 2026 offers an insight into public, regional and bank holidays observed in the state. This can be effectively utilised when we include our leaves offering us to take advantage over general holidays.

Bank Holidays in West Bengal in 2026

This is a holiday page customised for the state of West Bengal, the fourth most populous state in the country. Both the state and central governments have unveiled the calendar of holidays in West Bengal for the year 2026. Holidays can be clustered as public holidays, bank holidays and national holidays. Bank holidays are restricted only to scheduled and private banks.

There are three national holidays. Republic Day is the first national holiday and is celebrated in January every year. Independence Day is the second national holiday and is celebrated in August every year. The third national holiday is Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti, which is celebrated in October every year. Independence Day honors the freedom from the UK while Republic Day honors the creation of the constitution of India. The birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, is honored by celebrating Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti on 02 October.

Also Check: Voter List in West Bengal

Overview of Public and Bank Holidays in West Bengal for 2026

West Bengal celebrates the birthday of Swami Vivekananda on 12 January every year. Vasant Panchami and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti are observed in the same month. Holi Dahan falls in the month of March this year. In the month of April, the birthday of B R Ambedkar, the founder of the Indian constitution, is celebrated. West Bengal celebrates Pohela Boishakh, which is also called Bengali New Year.

Muharram, a notable Islamic festival, is observed in many parts of the country. In 2025, this festival falls in the month of July. Towards the end of the year, Diwali and Vijay Dashami are celebrated. These are the two popular Hindu festivals observed in many parts of the nation. Christmas Day is the biggest Christian festival celebrated every year on 25 December.

Major Festivals Celebrated in West Bengal

West Bengal is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant celebrations that reflect the traditions of its people. The state observes numerous festivals throughout the year, making them significant entries in the West Bengal holidays calendar. Here are some of the major festivals celebrated in West Bengal:

1. Durga Puja: The most prominent and widely celebrated festival in West Bengal, Durga Puja is a grand celebration that typically lasts for five days. The entire state lights up with pandals, cultural performances, and community gatherings.
2. Kali Puja: Celebrated shortly after Durga Puja, Kali Puja honors Goddess Kali and is observed with deep religious devotion across the state.
3. Saraswati Puja: Marking the worship of the goddess of learning, Saraswati Puja is particularly significant in schools, colleges, and homes.
4. Poila Boishakh (Bengali New Year): This marks the beginning of the Bengali calendar year and is celebrated with feasts, processions, and traditional attire.
5. Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha: Celebrated by the Muslim community with great enthusiasm, these festivals are also recognized public holidays in West Bengal.
6. Christmas: Especially in Kolkata, Christmas is celebrated in a grand way, particularly at Park Street, making it a notable part of the holiday calendar.
7. Rath Yatra: Associated with Lord Jagannath, this festival sees colorful processions, particularly in areas like ISKCON temples and tribal regions.

These festivals contribute significantly to the list of public and regional holidays in West Bengal, drawing tourists and locals alike to participate in the festivities.

Regional Holidays Specific to West Bengal

In addition to the nationwide public holidays, West Bengal observes several regional holidays that are unique to its cultural and historical background. These holidays are often linked to regional figures, traditional practices, and state-specific festivals:

1. Birth Anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore (Rabindra Jayanti): Celebrated on the 25th day of the Bengali month of Boishakh, this holiday honors the birth of the Nobel laureate with cultural programs and poetry recitals.
2. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti: Observed on January 23rd, this day commemorates the birth of the revolutionary freedom fighter, a key figure from Bengal.
3. Bengali New Year (Poila Boishakh): A regional holiday where shops perform "Haal Khata" rituals, and people wear traditional attire to mark the new year.
4. Jamai Shasthi: A unique Bengali ritual that celebrates the relationship between a son-in-law and his in-laws with lavish meals and blessings.
5. Chhat Puja: Although more prominent in Bihar, this festival is observed by the migrant population in parts of West Bengal, especially in districts bordering Jharkhand and Bihar.
6. Hul Diwas: Observed by tribal communities in regions like Purulia and Bankura, this holiday commemorates the Santhal rebellion against British rule.

These regional holidays in West Bengal are often declared by the state government and may not be applicable throughout the country. They highlight the diversity and localized cultural ethos that shape the holiday calendar in West Bengal.

Why is the West Bengal Holiday Calendar 2026 Important?

Yes, we all require the calendar of West Bengal holidays 2026 for many reasons. Let's assume you are working in Delhi and your place of origin different, the calendar helps you book a travel ticket in advance. The earlier you book, the lesser will be the transportation cost. As many people like to go on a trip during holidays, the holiday calendar helps you plan a trip in advance.

Also Check: How to Pay CESC West Bengal Electricity Bill Online

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