As the year 2024 approaches, people across India are looking forward to the promise of new beginnings, cherished moments, and much-needed rest. A close examination of the calendar for the coming year reveals a number of opportunities that can be transformed into memorable long weekends and festive celebrations. Recognising the importance of spending quality time with family and friends, this article provides a detailed breakdown of India's calendar for 2024, highlighting key dates and extended weekends.


Here's a detailed breakdown of the long weekends and key dates to mark:


January 2024: Key dates include New Year's Day on January 1, Lohri on January 13, Makar Sankranti and Pongal on January 15, and Republic Day on January 26.



  • January 1: New Year's Day

  • January 13-15: Lohri, Makar Sankranti, and Pongal

  • January 26: Republic Day


March brings the observance of Maha Shivratri on the 8th, Holi on the 25th, and Easter towards the end of the month. The subsequent months are also dotted with significant dates such as Buddha Purnima in May, Bakri Eid in June, and Independence Day in August.


March 2024:



  • March 8: Maha Shivratri

  • March 25: Holi

  • March 29-31: Good Friday to Easter


May 2024:



  • May 23: Buddha Purnima

  • May 24-26: Extendable weekend with leave on May 24


June 2024:



  • June 14-17: Bakri Eid and surrounding weekends


August 2024:



  • August 15: Independence Day

  • August 17-19: Raksha Bandhan and consecutive weekends

  • August 23-26: Janmashthami and surrounding weekends


September showcases Onam on the 5th, followed by Ganesh Chaturthi on the 7th. October sees celebrations around Dussehra, while November holds significance with Diwali and Guru Nanak Jayanti.


September 2024:



  • September 5: Onam

  • September 7-8: Ganesh Chaturthi and the following weekend

  • September 14-16: Eid Milad Un Nabi and consecutive weekends


October 2024:



  • October 11-13: Maha Navmi and Dussehra

  • October 29-31: Dhanteras to Choti Diwali


November 2024:



  • November 1: Diwali

  • November 3: Bhai Dooj

  • November 15-17: Guru Nanak Jayanti and surrounding weekends


For those strategising their leaves, the calendar offers several options. By planning wisely around these dates, you can optimise your holidays and create memorable moments with family and friends.