Holi 2027: The Festival of Colors
Festival guide · 2027
Holi (होली) is the Hindu festival of spring, colors, and the triumph of good over evil. It falls on the full moon (Purnima) of Phalguna (February–March) and is celebrated across India, Nepal, and by the Hindu diaspora and global communities worldwide.
The two-day festival begins with Holika Dahan — a bonfire on the eve — and continues with Rangwali Holi, when people play with coloured powder and water. It marks the defeat of the demoness Holika and celebrates the divine love of Krishna and Radha.
2027 Dates
| Date | Monday, March 22, 2027 |
Dates are calculated automatically and may vary by ±1 day. Always confirm with your local religious authority.
Traditions & Observance
Holika Dahan (Bonfire Night)
On the evening before Holi, communities gather around large bonfires to symbolically burn away evil and negativity. Devotees circumambulate the fire, offer grain and coconut, and sing devotional songs. The ash from the bonfire is considered auspicious and is applied to the forehead.
Playing with Colors
On the main day, people throw dry coloured powder (gulal) at each other, spray coloured water from pichkaris, and douse everyone from buckets. Traditional colours were made from flowers and herbs — today gulal is widely available. The chaos and laughter of colour-playing dissolves social barriers.
Regional Celebrations
Lathmar Holi in Barsana and Nandgaon (near Mathura) is famous for women beating men with sticks while men try to shield themselves. Phoolon ki Holi in Vrindavan's Banke Bihari temple uses flower petals. In Bengal, Holi is called Dol Yatra and includes processions with images of Radha-Krishna.
Thandai and Festival Foods
Thandai — cold milk blended with nuts, rose petals, and spices — is the traditional Holi beverage in North India. Gujiya (sweet fried pastries filled with khoya and dried fruit), puranpoli, and malpua are common festival sweets. After playing, families and friends share a meal and exchange sweets.
Other Years
Holi dates are based on the Hindu lunar calendar and may vary by one day between regions. Confirm with your local temple or panchang.