Tamil Nadu Holidays 2026 | Complete Calendar | Tamil Festivals | National Holidays

Tamil Nadu Holidays 2026

தமிழ்நாடு விடுமுறை நாட்கள்

December 2025

Current Date

30 Total Holidays

Complete Tamil Nadu Holiday Calendar 2026

Welcome to the comprehensive Tamil Nadu Holiday Calendar 2026! This detailed guide provides you with all the important dates, festivals, and celebrations throughout the year. Whether you're planning a trip to Tamil Nadu, organizing events, or simply want to stay informed about cultural celebrations, our calendar covers everything from traditional Tamil festivals to national holidays and international observances.

Tamil Festivals

Traditional celebrations like Pongal, Tamil New Year, and cultural events

National Holidays

Republic Day, Independence Day, and other patriotic celebrations

International Events

Women's Day, Labour Day, and global observances

💡 Search tips: Try searching for "Pongal", "Tamil", "National", or specific holiday names

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November 2026

December 2026

தமிழ் மாதம்: December

Sunny Days Special Events
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January 2027
Sun
ஞாயிறு
Mon
திங்கள்
Tue
செவ்வாய்
Wed
புதன்
Thu
வியாழன்
Fri
வெள்ளி
Sat
சனி
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
Christmas Eve
Bank Holiday
25
Christmas
Religious
26
27
28
29
30
31

Upcoming Holidays

New Year's Day
Jan 01, 2026
12 days
⏰ Countdown
Pongal
Jan 15, 2026
26 days
⏰ Countdown
Thiruvalluvar Day
Jan 16, 2026
27 days
⏰ Countdown
Republic Day
Jan 26, 2026
37 days
⏰ Countdown
Valentine's Day
Feb 14, 2026
56 days
⏰ Countdown

Holiday Statistics

13
Total Holidays
27 Bank Holidays
🎉 Celebrations
3
Tamil Festivals
🌾 Cultural
4
National Holidays
🇮🇳 Patriotic
1
Religious
⛪ Spiritual
27
Bank Holidays
🏦 Financial

Bank Holidays 2026

All major banks in Tamil Nadu will be closed on these dates. Plan your banking activities accordingly.

New Year's Day
Thursday, Jan 01, 2026
Bank Closed
Pongal
Thursday, Jan 15, 2026
Bank Closed
Thiruvalluvar Day
Friday, Jan 16, 2026
Bank Closed
Republic Day
Monday, Jan 26, 2026
Bank Closed
Tamil New Year
Saturday, Mar 21, 2026
Bank Closed
Ambedkar Jayanti
Tuesday, Apr 14, 2026
Bank Closed
Labour Day
Friday, May 01, 2026
Bank Closed
Independence Day
Saturday, Aug 15, 2026
Bank Closed
Gandhi Jayanti
Friday, Oct 02, 2026
Bank Closed
Christmas
Friday, Dec 25, 2026
Bank Closed
Pongal Eve
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2026
Bank Closed
Pongal Holiday
Saturday, Jan 17, 2026
Bank Closed

Important Bank Holiday Information

  • • All Banks Closed: National holidays, major festivals, and religious observances
  • • Half Day: Some banks may operate with reduced hours on certain holidays
  • • Online Banking: Available 24/7 even on bank holidays
  • • ATM Services: Usually available unless there are technical issues
  • • Emergency Services: Some banks provide emergency banking services

Major Banks Affected in Tamil Nadu

Public Sector Banks
  • • State Bank of India (SBI)
  • • Bank of India
  • • Bank of Baroda
  • • Punjab National Bank
  • • Canara Bank
  • • Union Bank of India
  • • Indian Bank
  • • Indian Overseas Bank
Private Sector Banks
  • • HDFC Bank
  • • ICICI Bank
  • • Axis Bank
  • • Kotak Mahindra Bank
  • • IndusInd Bank
  • • Yes Bank
  • • Federal Bank
  • • Karur Vysya Bank
Regional & Cooperative Banks
  • • Tamil Nadu State Apex Bank
  • • Tamil Nadu Mercantile Bank
  • • Lakshmi Vilas Bank
  • • City Union Bank
  • • Tamilnad Mercantile Bank
  • • Cooperative Banks
  • • Rural Banks
  • • Foreign Banks

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main Tamil festivals in 2026?

The main Tamil festivals in 2026 include Pongal (January 15) - the harvest festival, Tamil New Year (March 21) - traditional Tamil New Year celebration, and Chithirai New Year (April 14) - Chithirai month new year celebration. These festivals are deeply rooted in Tamil culture and are celebrated with great enthusiasm across Tamil Nadu.

How many national holidays are there in Tamil Nadu 2026?

Tamil Nadu observes several national holidays in 2026 including Republic Day (January 26), Independence Day (August 15), and Gandhi Jayanti (October 2). These are official government holidays when banks, schools, and government offices remain closed.

What is Pongal and why is it important?

Pongal is one of the most important Tamil festivals, celebrated on January 15, 2026. It's a four-day harvest festival that marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of the sun's northward journey. The festival is dedicated to the Sun God and includes cooking the traditional Pongal dish, decorating cattle, and expressing gratitude for the harvest.

What is Thiruvalluvar Day and its significance?

Thiruvalluvar Day (January 16, 2026) celebrates the birth anniversary of the great Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar, author of the famous Tirukkural. This day honors his contributions to Tamil literature and philosophy, promoting values of wisdom, ethics, and moral living. It's celebrated with cultural programs and literary events across Tamil Nadu.

Are international holidays like Valentine's Day celebrated in Tamil Nadu?

Yes, Valentine's Day (February 14, 2026) and other international holidays like International Women's Day (March 8, 2026) are celebrated in Tamil Nadu, especially in urban areas. While these are not official holidays, they are widely observed by younger generations and commercial establishments, reflecting the state's cosmopolitan culture.

What is the difference between Tamil New Year and Chithirai New Year?

Tamil New Year (March 21, 2026) follows the solar calendar and marks the beginning of the new year according to traditional Tamil calculations. Chithirai New Year (April 14, 2026) follows the lunar calendar and is celebrated as the first day of the Chithirai month. Both have cultural significance and are celebrated with traditional rituals and family gatherings.

Is Labour Day a public holiday in Tamil Nadu?

Labour Day (May 1, 2026) is celebrated as International Workers' Day in Tamil Nadu. While it's not always a complete public holiday, many government offices and educational institutions may have reduced working hours or special arrangements. Trade unions and workers' organizations organize rallies and events to celebrate workers' rights and achievements.

How is Independence Day celebrated in Tamil Nadu?

Independence Day (August 15, 2026) is celebrated with great patriotic fervor across Tamil Nadu. The day begins with flag hoisting ceremonies in schools, colleges, and government offices. Cultural programs, patriotic songs, and speeches highlighting India's freedom struggle are organized. The main celebration takes place at the Fort St. George in Chennai with the Chief Minister's address.

What is the significance of Gandhi Jayanti in Tamil Nadu?

Gandhi Jayanti (October 2, 2026) commemorates the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation. In Tamil Nadu, this day is observed with prayer meetings, seminars on Gandhian philosophy, and community service activities. Schools organize special assemblies, and government offices remain closed. The day promotes Gandhian values of non-violence, truth, and simplicity.

How is Children's Day celebrated in Tamil Nadu?

Children's Day (November 14, 2026) celebrates the birth anniversary of India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, who was fondly called "Chacha Nehru" by children. In Tamil Nadu, schools organize special programs, cultural activities, and competitions for children. Many schools also distribute sweets and gifts to students, making it a memorable day for children across the state.

Is Christmas celebrated in Tamil Nadu?

Yes, Christmas (December 25, 2026) is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Tamil Nadu, especially in areas with significant Christian populations like Chennai, Madurai, and Kanyakumari. Churches are beautifully decorated, midnight masses are held, and communities come together for celebrations. The festival promotes communal harmony and is celebrated by people of all faiths.

What is the significance of International Women's Day in Tamil Nadu?

International Women's Day (March 8, 2026) is celebrated across Tamil Nadu to recognize women's achievements and promote gender equality. Various organizations, educational institutions, and government bodies organize seminars, workshops, and cultural programs highlighting women's contributions to society. The day also focuses on women's rights, empowerment, and addressing gender-based challenges.

How far in advance should I plan for Tamil Nadu festivals?

For major festivals like Pongal and Tamil New Year, it's recommended to plan at least 2-3 months in advance, especially if you're planning to travel to Tamil Nadu. These festivals attract many visitors, so accommodations and transportation should be booked early. For smaller celebrations, planning 2-4 weeks ahead is usually sufficient.

Which cities in Tamil Nadu are best for experiencing festivals?

Chennai (capital city) offers grand celebrations for all major festivals, Madurai is famous for its traditional temple festivals, Coimbatore celebrates Pongal with great enthusiasm, and Thanjavur is known for its cultural festivals. Each city has its unique way of celebrating and offers different cultural experiences.

Are there any special holidays specific to Tamil Nadu in 2026?

Yes, Tamil Nadu has several state-specific holidays and festivals. Pongal and Thiruvalluvar Day are unique to Tamil Nadu and are celebrated as state holidays. Additionally, various temple festivals and local celebrations occur throughout the year, though these may not be official holidays. The state government may also declare additional holidays for local events.

What traditional foods are associated with Tamil Nadu festivals?

Tamil Nadu festivals feature a variety of traditional foods. Pongal is celebrated with the sweet Pongal dish made of rice and jaggery, Pongal also includes savory versions. During Tamil New Year, people prepare special sweets like Mangai Pachadi and Neem Flower Rasam. Most festivals include traditional rice dishes, coconut-based sweets, and special prasadam offerings.

What cultural activities are organized during Tamil festivals?

Tamil festivals feature rich cultural activities including classical music concerts, traditional dance performances (Bharatanatyam), folk dances, poetry recitations, and cultural competitions. Pongal includes traditional games, bull-taming events, and cultural programs. Many festivals also feature traditional art exhibitions, craft demonstrations, and cultural workshops for visitors.

How can tourists participate in Tamil Nadu festivals?

Tourists can participate in Tamil Nadu festivals by attending public celebrations, visiting temples during festival times, and joining community events. Many hotels and tour operators offer special festival packages. It's recommended to dress modestly, respect local customs, and participate in cultural activities. Learning basic Tamil greetings and festival customs can enhance the experience significantly.

Are photography and videography allowed during festivals?

Photography and videography are generally allowed during most Tamil Nadu festivals, but it's important to respect local customs and seek permission when necessary. Some temple areas may have restrictions, and it's polite to ask before taking photos of people. Many festivals offer excellent opportunities for cultural photography, but always be respectful and avoid disrupting ceremonies or celebrations.

Where can I get more information about specific festival dates and events?

For detailed information about Tamil Nadu festivals, you can visit the official Tamil Nadu Tourism website, contact local tourism offices, or check with local temples and cultural organizations. This calendar provides the main dates, but specific event schedules may vary by location. Local newspapers and cultural magazines also publish detailed festival calendars and event information throughout the year.