Holi 2026 in New York falls on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Celebrated from morning is 6:26 AM EST.
Celebrates Vishnu’s protection of Prahlada and, in the Braj tradition, the divine playfulness of Radha and Krishna — young Krishna, teased about his dark complexion, playfully colored Radha’s face, giving Holi its colors. It also marks Kamadeva’s sacrifice and revival in Shaiva lore.
India’s festival of colors: friends, family and strangers drench each other in gulal and colored water, feuds are forgiven, and social barriers dissolve for a day. Braj (Mathura-Vrindavan) celebrates for over a week, including the famous Lathmar Holi of Barsana.
Traditional treats include gujiya, thandai and puran poli. Play with natural/herbal colors, protect eyes, and oil skin and hair beforehand — and everything is forgiven with "Bura na mano, Holi hai!" (Don’t mind, it’s Holi!).