August 2026 will feature several important national and religious holidays across India, giving people an opportunity to celebrate cultural traditions and spend time with their families. The month includes three major occasions, Independence Day, Milad-un-Nabi, and Raksha Bandhan, which are widely observed across different parts of the country.While holiday schedules may vary depending on state government notifications and organisational calendars, these occasions are expected to result in closures of government offices, banks, educational institutions, and several private establishments. Students can check the August list of holidays in their school diaries.
Independence Day to begin the holiday calendar
The first major holiday in August falls on August 15 (Saturday), when the country will celebrate its 80th Independence Day. The day commemorates India’s freedom from British rule in 1947 and is marked by flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural programmes, parades, and patriotic events across the country.Government offices, banks, educational institutions, and several private establishments are expected to remain closed on the occasion, subject to local notifications.
Milad-un-Nabi to be observed on August 26
The next crucial festival will be Milad-un-Nabi, which will take place on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. The festival marks the birthday anniversary of Prophet Mohammad and is celebrated by the Muslim community through various prayers and celebrations. There can be chances of the government, banks, and other institutions having holidays in some states.
Raksha Bandhan falls on a Friday
The last crucial holiday in the month of August will be Raksha Bandhan, which will fall on Friday, August 28, 2026. This festival will mark the relation of brothers and sisters, and sisters will tie rakhi on their brother’s hand and pray for their safety.Many educational institutions, workplaces, and other business places may not have full working hours or may remain closed.
August 2026 holiday: Check list
Here is the holiday list for August 2026:
Holiday schedules may vary across states
The list above highlights the major holidays in August 2026. However, the final holiday calendar may differ across states and union territories, as several regional festivals and local observances are notified separately by state governments.Employees, students, and travellers are advised to refer to the holiday calendar issued by their respective institutions or state authorities before planning official work or travel during the month.
