Braj Holi 2026: From Lathmar Holi to Rangpanchami in Mathura-Vrindavan — Full List of Dates and Events

While different states have different ways to play holi, but Mathura's Vrindavan is famous for  'Braj ki Holi' which is a celebrated for a week in Braj month.  Let's know on which day and in what way this year's Braj Holi will be played.

In the Braj land of Uttar Pradesh, the excitement of Holi starts from Vasant Panchami itself. In this city of Kanha, Holi is played not only with colors, but also with devotion and tradition. The main days of this year's festival are as follows:

Braj Holi 2026: Main Dates (Calendar)

Various types of Holi can be seen in Braj. Its schedule is as follows:

• February 23 (Monday): Barsana Laddu Holi – This festival begins sweetly by throwing laddus at Shreeji Temple.
• February 24 (Tuesday): Barsana Lathmar Holi – The world-famous Lathmar Holi, where gopis (women) lovingly beat the cowherds of Nandagaon with sticks.
• February 25 (Wednesday): Nandagaon Lathmar Holi – The same enthusiasm is seen in Nandagaon the next day.
• February 27 (Friday): Rangbharni Ekadashi – The first big explosion of colors takes place at the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan. 'Flower Holi' (Phoolon ki Holi) is celebrated on this day.
• February 28 (Saturday): Gokul Chhadimar Holi – Chhadimar Holi played with children (Balakrishna).
• March 2 (Monday): Holika Dahan – Holi is lit according to religious rituals throughout Braj.
• March 3 (Tuesday): Dhuli Vandana (Color Festival) – The main Holi day, where colors are showered.
• March 7 (Saturday): Rangpanchami – The Braj festival concludes with Rangpanchami.

Special attractions of Braj Holi

1. Lathmar Holi: This Holi is considered a symbol of Radha-Krishna's love. The men of Nandagaon come in the rain and the women there attack them with sticks, the men defend themselves with shields.
2. Flower Holi: Devotees throng to watch this Holi played with natural flower petals on Rangbharni Ekadashi.
3.  Radharani and Banke Bihari Darshan: The shower of gulal and abir in the temples during this time enchants the devotees.

Some tips for those going to Braj Holi:

• Time planning: Since the crowd is huge, it is convenient to reach each place before time.
• Safety: Use natural colors to protect your eyes and skin.
• White clothes: There is an old tradition in Braj to play Holi wearing white clothes, as the flying colors are more visible on them.