Braj Holi 2026 begins before March 4 with Laddu Holi, Lathmar Holi and Phoolon Wali Holi. Check full calendar, dates and rituals here.
Every year, lakhs of devotees and tourists, including visitors from abroad, gather in these towns to witness Holi as it was celebrated centuries ago. (Photo: Social Media)
Holi, the festival of colours, joy, and togetherness, will be celebrated across India on March 4, 2026, but nowhere does it unfold with as much grandeur and spiritual energy as in the Braj region. Spread across Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana, and Gokul, Braj Holi is not a one-day celebration. It is a 10-day-long festival rooted in devotion, folklore, and age-old traditions associated with Lord Krishna.
Every year, lakhs of devotees and tourists, including visitors from abroad, gather in these towns to witness Holi as it was celebrated centuries ago.
Holi is celebrated on Purnima Tithi of the Phalguna month. In 2026, Rangwali Holi or Dhulandi falls on March 4 (Wednesday). However, in the Braj region, celebrations begin nearly ten days earlier with unique rituals and events.
Here is the complete timetable of Braj Holi 2026 celebrations:
Laddu Holi marks the beginning of Braj Holi celebrations. Devotees gather at the Radha Rani Temple in Barsana, where sweets (laddus) are joyfully thrown instead of colours. This playful ritual symbolises abundance and celebration.
Lathmar Holi, celebrated in Barsana and Nandgaon, is one of the most searched Holi traditions in India. During this event, women playfully chase men with sticks, while men use shields to protect themselves. The ritual recreates legendary stories linked to Krishna and Radha and attracts massive crowds every year.
Phoolon Wali Holi in Vrindavan replaces colours with flowers and petals, creating a serene and devotional atmosphere inside temples.
Widow Holi, also held in Vrindavan, carries deep social significance. Widows, once excluded from festivities, now openly celebrate Holi with colours, music, and joy, symbolising social change and inclusion.
On the evening of March 3, bonfires are lit during Holika Dahan. The ritual represents the victory of good over evil, commemorating the legend of Prahlad and Holika.
Rangwali Holi on March 4 is the main festival day. Devotees smear gulal, sing bhajans, and celebrate in the sacred lanes of Mathura and Vrindavan, bringing the 10-day Braj Holi celebrations to a colourful close.
