Holidays in December 2026

December is a month of reflection, celebration, and planning for the year ahead. For many, it is also a time to unwind and spend quality moments with family and friends. In India, December brings a host of holidays, including gazetted, restricted, and bank holidays, as well as long weekends that are perfect for travel or personal activities. Understanding these holidays is crucial not only for personal planning but also for managing financial schedules, as holidays can impact banking operations and stock market activities.

Below is a comprehensive guide to the holidays in December 2026, segmented into categories for better clarity and ease of planning.

India is a diverse country with a rich cultural heritage, and this is reflected in its holiday calendar. December 2026 is no exception, with holidays ranging from religious festivals to regional events. Here is the complete list of holidays for the month:

Gazetted Holidays

Gazetted holidays are mandatory holidays observed nationwide. In December 2026, the following gazetted holidays are observed:

• Christmas Day (25th December, Friday): Celebrated across India, Christmas is a major festival for Christians and a day of joy and togetherness for families.

Restricted Holidays

Restricted holidays are optional holidays that individuals can choose to take based on their preferences or religious beliefs. These holidays may vary by state and organisation. Some restricted holidays in December 2026 include:

• Guru Ghasidas Jayanti (18th December, Friday): Observed in Chhattisgarh to honour the birth anniversary of Guru Ghasidas, a spiritual leader and social reformer.
• Christmas Eve (24th December, Thursday): Observed in some regions as a day of preparation and celebration before Christmas.

Other Observed Holidays

In addition to gazetted and restricted holidays, certain states and regions may observe specific festivals or events. Some of these include:

• Losar (Tibetan New Year, 11th December, Friday): Celebrated in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim, this festival marks the beginning of the Tibetan calendar.
• New Year’s Eve (31st December, Thursday): While not an official holiday, this day is widely celebrated across India as people prepare to welcome the New Year.

Bank holidays in India vary by state and are determined by local events and festivals. It is essential for individuals and businesses to be aware of these holidays to plan their financial transactions effectively. Below is a table of bank holidays in December 2026:

It is important to note that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) mandates that banks remain closed on certain national holidays, while state-specific holidays may vary. For those managing financial transactions, it is advisable to plan ahead to avoid any disruptions.

For those looking to make the most of their time off, December 2026 offers some excellent long weekend opportunities. Long weekends are a great way to recharge, travel, or spend time with loved ones. Here are the long weekends in December 2026:

1. 18th – 20th December (Friday to Sunday):
   • Holiday: Guru Ghasidas Jayanti (18th December, Friday)
   • This long weekend is ideal for a short getaway or spending time with family.
2. 25th – 27th December (Friday to Sunday):
   • Holiday: Christmas Day (25th December, Friday)
   • A perfect opportunity to celebrate Christmas and enjoy the festive spirit.

By planning your holidays in advance, you can make the most of these long weekends. Whether you are looking to explore new destinations or simply relax at home, these breaks offer a chance to unwind and rejuvenate.

December 2026 is packed with opportunities to celebrate, reflect, and relax. From nationwide gazetted holidays like Christmas to region-specific celebrations such as Losar and Guru Ghasidas Jayanti, the month offers something for everyone. For those managing financial matters, staying informed about bank holidays is crucial to avoid disruptions. Additionally, the long weekends provide a perfect opportunity to plan trips or spend quality time with loved ones.

By staying aware of these holidays, you can better plan your personal, professional, and financial activities. Whether it is managing your investments or planning a vacation, being organised will ensure you make the most of the festive season.