Navigating Dry Days in 2026: A Comprehensive Guide for Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Other Indian Cities
I’m a bit of a Birthday-zilla, so believe me when I say I plan down to the T for my party. So when one of those damn dry days in India landed on the special date and I was caught completely blindsided, I — honest to God — impersonated a Disney Princess and flounced dramatically onto the closest seat. How would I have a birthday party without any booze? Thankfully, my best friend, who’s as type A as they come, had been prepared for this calamity. She’d ordered all our favourite expressions a day in advance, and in effect, saved the day. Or at least, saved all my guests from staring down the end of a hissy fit. This list would have saved me a lot of pain. And now, it will, for you.
(Disclaimer: This list may differ for certain Indian states)
Dry days in 2026: 28 dates in Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru & other Indian cities from January to December when you need to stock up in advance
January
January 26, Monday: Republic Day
February
February 15, Sunday: Shivratri
February 19, Thursday: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti (only in Maharashtra)
February 23, Monday: Swami Dayanand Saraswati Jayanti
March
March 4, Wednesday: Holi
March 20, Friday: Eid ul-Fitr
March 23, Monday: Shaheed Diwas (only in Maharashtra)
March 26, Friday: Ram Navami
April
April 3, Friday: Good Friday
April 10, Friday: Mahavir Jayanti
April 14, Tuesday: Ambedkar Jayanti
May
May 1, Friday: Labour Day/Maharashtra Day/Buddha Purnima
May 27, Wednesday: Bakrid, Eid-al-Adha
June
June 26, Friday: Muharram
July
July 25, Saturday: Ashadi Ekadashi
July 29, Wednesday: Guru Purnima
August
August 15, Saturday: Independence Day
August 25, Tuesday: Eid-e-Milad
September
September 4, Friday: Janmashthami
September 14, Monday: Ganesh Chaturthi (only in Maharashtra and Karnataka)
September 25, Friday: Anant Chaturdashi (only in Maharashtra)
October
October 2, Friday: Gandhi Jayanti
October 7, Wednesday: Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti
October 20, Tuesday: Dussehra
November
November 5, Thursday: Kartiki Ekadashi
November 8, Sunday: Diwali (only in Delhi-NCR)
November 24, Tuesday: Guru Nanak Jayanti
December
December 25, Friday: Christmas
These dry days are observed in different states and cities, and it’s crucial to be aware of the specific dates to avoid any last-minute hassles. Whether you’re planning a party or just want to enjoy a quiet evening at home, make sure to stock up on your favorite beverages a day or two before these dates. Happy planning and cheers!
