School Holidays 2025: January to December, Full List of Holidays, Festivals, Celebrations

As January 2025 arrives, so does the much-anticipated winter break for students across India. With cooler temperatures setting in, it's the perfect time for families to unwind, travel, or simply enjoy some downtime. For parents, teachers, and students alike, knowing when the school holidays fall can help plan ahead for vacations, festivals, and family gatherings.

India’s holiday calendar is rich with diverse celebrations, and while each state might have its own specific dates, the major public holidays are generally observed nationwide. Government and educational institutions usually issue official holiday lists at the beginning of the year, ensuring that everyone is prepared for breaks and festivities. Here’s a comprehensive look at the school holidays in India for 2025.

January 2025: Welcoming the New Year with Festivities

The year kicks off with a flurry of important holidays. On January 6, Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti is observed, especially in Northern India, marking the birth of the tenth Sikh Guru. Students can also look forward to the harvest celebrations of Makar Sankranti and Pongal on January 14, which are celebrated with fervor in different parts of the country. January concludes with Republic Day on January 26, a national holiday commemorating the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950.

February 2025: Celebrating the Spirit of Spring and Culture

In February, several cultural and religious holidays offer students a break. Basant Panchami on February 2 marks the arrival of spring, with its distinctive yellow color associated with the festival. On February 19, Maharashtra celebrates Shivaji Jayanti, remembering the legendary Maratha king. Schools will also close for Guru Ravidas Jayanti on February 24 and Mahashivratri on February 26.

March 2025: The Month of Color and Celebrations

March is synonymous with the academic year’s conclusion, but it also brings vibrant holidays. Holi, the festival of colors, will be celebrated on March 14, offering students an exciting day off. Additionally, Ugadi, Chaitra Sukhladi, and Gudi Padwa on March 30 bring regional celebrations, particularly in the South and West. On March 31, Eid-ul-Fitr will be observed, marking the end of Ramadan.

April 2025: Honoring Religious Figures

In April, holidays center around religious observances. Ram Navami on April 6 celebrates the birth of Lord Rama. Mahavir Jayanti, observed on April 10, honors Lord Mahavir, the founder of Jainism. Later in the month, Good Friday on April 18 is a significant day for Christians, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

May and June 2025: Spirituality and Exams

May 12 brings a holiday for Buddha Purnima, a day dedicated to Lord Buddha’s teachings. In June, although it’s mainly the time for final exams, there will be a holiday on June 7 for Eid-ul-Adha, celebrated by Muslims across the country.

July 2025: Muharram and Reflection

July offers a solemn holiday on July 6 for Muharram, observed by the Muslim community as a day of mourning and reflection, marking the martyrdom of Imam Hussain.

August 2025: Festivals of Unity and Culture

The monsoon season in August brings a series of important holidays. On August 9, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated, honoring the bond between siblings. A few days later, Independence Day on August 15 celebrates India’s freedom from British rule. On August 16, Janmashtami marks the birth of Lord Krishna, with cultural performances and celebrations throughout the country. The month ends with Ganesh Chaturthi on August 27, which is widely celebrated, especially in Maharashtra.

September 2025: Onam, Eid, and Navratri Festivities

September is a month filled with vibrant festivities. Onam on September 5 is one of Kerala’s most important cultural celebrations, with grand feasts and floral decorations. Additionally, Eid-e-Milad on September 5 honors the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. As the month progresses, the widely celebrated Navratri begins, with school closures on September 29 for Mahasaptami and September 30 for Mahashtami.

October 2025: Gandhi Jayanti, Diwali, and More

October is a month full of significance. Gandhi Jayanti on October 2 honors the birth of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation. The festival season peaks with Diwali on October 20, a time for lights, sweets, and family celebrations. Schools will also close on October 23 for Bhai Dooj, a day celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters.

November 2025: Celebrating Sikh Gurus

The cooler weather brings holidays like Guru Nanak Jayanti on November 5, celebrating the birth of the first Sikh Guru. On November 24, schools will close for Guru Tegh Bahadur Jayanti, honoring the martyrdom of the ninth Sikh Guru.

December 2025: A Festive End to the Year

The year concludes with Christmas on December 25, marking the birth of Jesus Christ. It’s a time of joy, giving, and family gatherings, making it an ideal break before ringing in the New Year.