Holidays in December 2026

Indigenous Faith Day: Indigenous Faith Day celebrates the traditional beliefs and customs of Arunachal Pradesh's tribal communities. It is in recognition of indigenous religions practiced across the state. The holiday honours the ancestral worship systems and the cultural heritage of local tribes.

Feast of St. Francis Xavier: The Feast of St. Francis Xavier commemorates the death anniversary of the patron saint of Goa. On this day there are religious processions and church services across the state. Devotees gather at Basilica of Bom Jesus to pay respects to the saint's preserved remains.

Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah Jayanti: Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah Jayanti marks the birth anniversary of Jammu & Kashmir's former Chief Minister. You will see tributes to his political leadership and contribution to the region. The holiday recognises his role in shaping the state's modern political landscape.

Pa Togan Nengminza Sangma: Pa Togan Nengminza Sangma commemorates a revered Garo leader and freedom fighter from Meghalaya. There are celebrations honouring his contribution to tribal rights and regional development. The holiday acknowledges his efforts in preserving Garo culture and traditions.

Death Anniversary of U SoSo Tham: The Death Anniversary of U SoSo Tham honours Meghalaya's celebrated Khasi poet and philosopher. You will see literary events and cultural programmes marking his contributions. The holiday celebrates his poetic works that preserved Khasi folklore and traditional wisdom.

Guru Ghasidas Jayanti: Guru Ghasidas Jayanti celebrates the birth anniversary of the founder of Satnam Dharma. On this day devotees remember his teachings on equality and social reform. The holiday honours his efforts to eliminate caste discrimination in central Indian communities.

Saturday: Goa Liberation Day marks the end of Portuguese colonial rule in 1961. There are patriotic celebrations and official ceremonies across Goa, Daman and Diu. The holiday commemorates Indian armed forces' operation that integrated these territories into India.

Hazarat Ali's Birthday: Hazarat Ali's Birthday celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law. Shia Muslim communities organise special prayers and religious gatherings. The holiday holds significance for Muslims across India who honour his spiritual teachings and leadership.

Christmas Eve: Christmas Eve marks the day before Christmas with evening church services and family gatherings. Christian communities prepare for midnight mass and celebrations. The holiday involves carol singing, decorating homes, and sharing festive meals with loved ones.

Christmas: Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ with religious services and festive traditions. You will witness decorated churches, homes, and public spaces across India. The holiday brings Christian communities together for prayers, gift exchanges, and special meals with family members.

Shaheed Udham Singh Jayanti: Shaheed Udham Singh Jayanti commemorates the revolutionary freedom fighter from Punjab. You will see tributes to his sacrifice and act of avenging the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. The holiday honours his contribution to India's independence movement and patriotic spirit.

Boxing Day: Boxing Day follows Christmas and traditionally involves giving gifts to service workers. You will find people exchanging presents and spending time with family and friends. The holiday continues as a relaxation day after Christmas festivities in these states.

Tamu Losar: Tamu Losar marks the Gurung community's New Year celebration in Sikkim. You will witness traditional dances, cultural programmes, and community feasts. The holiday celebrates new beginnings with family gatherings and prayers for prosperity in the coming year.

New Year's Eve: New Year's Eve marks the final day of the year with celebrations and countdown events. You will see people gathering for parties, cultural shows, and fireworks at midnight. The holiday brings communities together to bid farewell to the outgoing year.

Indigenous Faith Day

You can participate in traditional tribal ceremonies and cultural events organised across Arunachal Pradesh. Local communities conduct rituals that showcase indigenous beliefs and ancestral worship practices. You may visit community centres where tribal elders explain the significance of indigenous faiths. Cultural performances display traditional dances and folk songs specific to different tribes.

Explore museums and cultural exhibitions that highlight indigenous religious practices. Many villages open their sacred sites for visitors during this day. You can witness prayer ceremonies conducted according to age-old customs. Local markets sell traditional handicrafts and religious items used in indigenous worship.

Feast of St. Francis Xavier

Attend special mass services at churches across Goa, particularly at Basilica of Bom Jesus. The church displays the sacred relics of St. Francis Xavier during this period. You may join thousands of devotees in religious processions through Old Goa's streets. Evening prayer services feature choir performances and hymns dedicated to the patron saint.

Explore the decorated churches and participate in community feasts organised by local parishes. Many families prepare traditional Goan delicacies and share meals with neighbours. You can visit charity events and social service activities conducted in the saint's honour. Cultural programmes showcase Goan Christian heritage through music and dance performances.

Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah Jayanti

Attend memorial services and political gatherings held across Jammu and Kashmir. Government offices organise seminars discussing Sheikh Abdullah's contribution to regional politics. You may visit his memorial site where floral tributes are offered by dignitaries. Documentary screenings showcase his life and political journey throughout Kashmir's modern history.

Participate in cultural programmes celebrating Kashmiri heritage and political consciousness. Educational institutions conduct debates and discussions on his democratic ideals and governance principles. You can visit exhibitions displaying photographs and documents from his political career. Community centres host talks by historians and political analysts about his legacy.

Pa Togan Nengminza Sangma

Join cultural celebrations organised by Garo communities across Meghalaya. Traditional Garo dances and music performances take place in community halls and public venues. You may attend storytelling sessions where elders narrate tales of their bravery and leadership. Local schools conduct competitions highlighting Garo culture and tribal heritage.

Visit memorials dedicated to this freedom fighter in Garo Hills region. Community feasts feature traditional Garo cuisine prepared using indigenous recipes and ingredients. You can participate in sports events and traditional games popular among Garo tribes. Cultural exhibitions display artifacts and historical documents related to his life and contributions.

Death Anniversary of U SoSo Tham

You can attend poetry recitals and literary gatherings celebrating Khasi literature across Meghalaya. Schools and colleges organise competitions where students recite his famous poems. You may visit cultural centres hosting discussions on his philosophical works and poetic contributions. Traditional Khasi music performances accompany readings of his literary creations.

Explore exhibitions showcasing manuscripts and translations of his poetic works. Libraries conduct special sessions where scholars explain the depth of their philosophical teachings. You can participate in cultural programmes featuring Khasi folk traditions that he preserved through poetry. Local communities organise memorial services at his resting place in Shillong.

Guru Ghasidas Jayanti

Visit Satnam Dharma temples, where special prayers and bhajans honour Guru Ghasidas. Devotees gather for discourses explaining his teachings on social equality and spiritual wisdom. You may participate in community meals where people from all backgrounds share food together. Religious processions carry his portrait through the streets with devotional singing.

Attend seminars discussing his social reform movements against caste discrimination. Cultural programmes showcase folk traditions from Chhattisgarh where he spread his teachings. You can visit community centres distributing food and conducting charitable activities in his name. Educational events highlight his philosophy of equality and human dignity.

Goa Liberation Day

Attend flag hoisting ceremonies and military parades organised in Panaji and other cities. Government buildings display patriotic decorations and lights throughout Goa, Daman, and Diu. You may visit war memorials where tributes are paid to soldiers who participated in the liberation. Documentary screenings show historical footage of the 1961 military operation.

You can participate in cultural programmes celebrating Goan identity and freedom from colonial rule. Schools conduct essay competitions and debates on the significance of liberation. You can visit museums displaying artefacts and photographs from the Portuguese era and liberation period. Evening events feature patriotic songs and theatrical performances depicting historical events.

Hazarat Ali's Birthday

You can attend special prayers and religious gatherings at mosques and Islamic centres. Shia communities organise majlis where scholars discuss Hazarat Ali's teachings and spiritual wisdom. You may participate in processions featuring devotional recitations and religious poetry. Community halls host lectures explaining his role in Islamic history and philosophy.

Join charity drives where food and essentials are distributed to underprivileged communities. Many families prepare special meals and invite neighbours regardless of religious background. You can attend cultural programmes featuring qawwali performances and devotional music. Religious institutions conduct educational sessions teaching their principles of justice and compassion.

Christmas Eve

Attend midnight mass services at churches decorated with lights and nativity scenes. Carol singing groups move through neighbourhoods spreading festive cheer and holiday spirit. You may participate in community dinners where families share traditional Christmas delicacies. Churches organise special prayer services and musical performances featuring Christmas hymns.

Help decorate homes and churches with Christmas trees, stars, and colourful lights. Many communities conduct charity drives, distributing gifts and food to those in need. You can join children's programmes featuring Santa Claus visits and storytelling sessions. Evening gatherings bring families together for baking cookies and preparing for Christmas celebrations.

Christmas

Attend morning church services celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. Families exchange gifts and share festive meals featuring traditional dishes and special desserts. You may visit decorated public spaces and shopping areas showcasing Christmas themes. Community centres organise cultural programmes with carol performances and nativity plays.

Participate in charity activities distributing food and clothes to underprivileged sections. Many families visit orphanages and old-age homes, spreading joy and festive spirit. You can arrange gatherings with friends and relatives enjoying Christmas delicacies. Evening events feature community singing, dancing, and celebrations welcoming the holiday spirit.

Shaheed Udham Singh Jayanti

You can attend memorial services at monuments dedicated to this revolutionary freedom fighter. Government offices organise functions where leaders pay floral tributes and deliver speeches. You may visit exhibitions displaying photographs and documents related to his life. Documentary screenings showcase his journey from Punjab to England and his historic act.

Participate in patriotic programmes featuring songs and theatrical performances about his sacrifice. Educational institutions conduct debates and essay competitions on his contribution to the independence movement. You can visit the village Sunam in Punjab where he was born. Cultural events highlight his bravery and determination in avenging the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.

Boxing Day

Spend quality time with family members, enjoying leftover Christmas delicacies. Many people organise outdoor activities like picnics, sports matches, and community gatherings. You may participate in shopping sales and promotional events at retail stores. Community centres host entertainment programmes and games for children and adults.

Visit friends and relatives, continuing the festive spirit from Christmas celebrations. Many families arrange movie outings or trips to nearby tourist attractions. You can participate in charity events where people donate to various social causes. Sports enthusiasts attend or watch football matches and other sporting events traditionally held today.

Tamu Losar

Join Gurung community celebrations featuring traditional dances and cultural performances. Families prepare special dishes using indigenous ingredients and traditional cooking methods. You may attend prayer ceremonies at monasteries where monks conduct rituals for prosperity. Community gatherings showcase Gurung folk songs and musical instruments.

Participate in cultural programmes displaying traditional Gurung attire and customs. Many families clean and decorate homes, welcoming the new year with fresh energy. You can visit community feasts where people share meals and exchange good wishes. Traditional games and sports events bring communities together in celebration.

New Year's Eve

Attend countdown events and parties organised at hotels, clubs, and public venues. Many cities host fireworks displays and musical concerts welcoming the new year. You may participate in cultural programmes featuring live performances and entertainment shows. Community gatherings bring people together for celebrations and midnight festivities.

Spend time with family and friends reflecting on the outgoing year. Many people visit temples and churches, to offer prayers for the coming year. You can organise home parties with loved ones, enjoying special meals and conversations. Public spaces host celebrations where crowds gather to witness the new year together.

December 2026 offers diverse travel options across India and international locations. You can explore snowy mountains, cultural festivals, and beach destinations during this month. A travel loan may help you manage expenses for year-end trips. Planning ahead ensures you enjoy the best weather and festive celebrations.

Domestic Destinations

Jammu and Kashmir

Thajiwas Glacier near Sonamarg transforms into a winter paradise during December. You can enjoy sledging and snowboarding on snow-covered slopes. The cost of the Kashmir trip can greatly vary depending on what you choose to do such as glacier visits, accommodation, and adventure activities. Pristine white meadows and frozen streams create serene landscapes for nature lovers.

You will witness Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah Jayanti celebrations during your visit. Government buildings host exhibitions showcasing Kashmir's political history and cultural heritage. You can attend seminars and cultural performances across the region. Local communities organise discussions about Abdullah's contributions to regional development.

Shillong

Dawki in Shillong features the crystal-clear Umngot River during December. You will see boats appearing to float on the air due to transparent water. The cost of the Shillong trip covers boating activities, local cuisine, and accommodation. Mild winter weather makes outdoor exploration comfortable and enjoyable.

You can witness the Death Anniversary of U SoSo Tham celebrations across Meghalaya. Literary gatherings and poetry recitals honour the Khasi poet's contributions. Cultural programmes feature traditional music accompanying readings of his philosophical works. Local communities conduct memorial services and educational events during your visit.

Manali

Manali usually receives heavy snowfall during December, attracting adventure enthusiasts. You can experience skiing and paragliding in Solang Valley's snowy terrain. The cost of the Manali trip includes snow sports, temple visits, and mountain accommodation. Hadimba Temple, surrounded by cedar forests, adds cultural significance to your journey.

You will find numerous trekking routes through snow-covered trails and pine forests. Local markets sell woollen clothes and traditional Himachali handicrafts. You can enjoy hot local delicacies while experiencing cold mountain weather. Adventure activities and peaceful mountain views create memorable experiences.

Sikkim

Sikkim displays snow-capped peaks and clear Kanchenjunga views during December. You can explore Buddhist monasteries, rhododendron forests, and traditional mountain villages. The cost of the Sikkim trip covers monastery visits, accommodation, and local transport. Crisp winter air and festive celebrations make this destination special.

You can experience Tamu Losar celebrations with the Gurung community on 30 December 2026. Traditional dances, cultural performances, and community feasts showcase ethnic diversity. You can participate in prayer ceremonies at monasteries and taste indigenous cuisine. Cultural programmes display traditional Gurung attire and folk music.

Rann of Kutch

Rann of Kutch becomes a cultural hub during December’s Rann Utsav. You will witness vast white salt desert landscapes under moonlit nights. The cost of the Kutch trip includes festival entry, accommodation, and cultural activities. Folk music, dance performances, and local crafts bring desert landscapes alive.

You can explore traditional villages and witness artisan workshops creating handicrafts. Camel rides across salt plains offer unique desert experiences. You will enjoy cultural performances showcasing Gujarat's rich heritage. Evening celebrations under starlit sky create otherworldly spectacles.

Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer's pleasant December weather allows comfortable exploration of the city’s historic architecture. You can visit the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort and explore golden sandstone structures. The cost of the Jaisalmer trip covers fort entry, desert safari, and heritage accommodation. Thar Desert offers thrilling camel rides through golden dunes.

You will enjoy traditional music and dance performances under starlit desert sky. Local markets sell colourful textiles, jewellery, and Rajasthani handicrafts. You can experience desert camping with cultural programmes and folk performances. Historic havelis and palaces showcase intricate architecture and royal heritage.

International Destinations

You can consider opting for a travel loan to manage international travel expenses during December 2026. You can explore diverse destinations offering unique experiences and cultural celebrations. Budget planning helps you choose suitable international locations.

Bali

Bali offers tropical beauty and cultural charm during December despite light showers. You will find lush green landscapes, beach resorts, and traditional festivities. The cost of a Bali trip remains budget-friendly with fewer tourists than in peak months. Warm weather makes it ideal for romantic getaways and adventure activities.

You can explore ancient temples, rice terraces, and traditional villages. Beach resorts offer water sports, spa treatments, and cultural performances. You will enjoy Balinese cuisine and local markets selling handicrafts. Cultural ceremonies and festivals provide authentic Indonesian experiences.

Dubai

Dubai's pleasant December weather creates perfect conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. You can enjoy shopping festivals, desert safaris, and iconic landmarks. The cost of the Dubai trip includes accommodation, attraction tickets, and shopping expenses. Festive cheer and cooler climate make winter visits enjoyable.

You will explore Burj Khalifa, Marina Walk, and traditional souks. Desert safari experiences include dune bashing, camel rides, and cultural shows. You can visit modern malls, water parks, and beach clubs. Evening fountain shows and light displays create magical experiences.

New Zealand

December brings summer to New Zealand with longer daylight hours. You can enjoy road trips, wine tours, and adventure sports. The cost of the New Zealand trip covers transport, accommodation, and activity expenses. Landscapes bloom with flowers, creating picturesque mountain and beach views.

You can explore cities, national parks, and coastal regions. Adventure activities include bungee jumping, hiking, and water sports. You can visit vineyards, geothermal areas, and Maori cultural sites. Nature trails and wildlife encounters provide unforgettable experiences.

Thailand

Thailand offers warm weather and festive nightlife during December. You can enjoy beach hopping in Krabi and temple tours in Bangkok. The cost of Thailand trip remains budget-friendly with options for all travel styles. Full Moon Party and island experiences attract adventure seekers.

You get to explore floating markets, ancient temples, and bustling street markets. Island destinations offer snorkelling, diving, and beach relaxation. You can enjoy Thai cuisine, traditional massages, and cultural shows. Night markets and entertainment districts provide vibrant experiences.

Maldives

The Maldives experiences peak season during December with clear skies. You can enjoy snorkelling, diving, and overwater villa stays. The cost of the Maldives trip includes resort accommodation and water activities. Calm seas and sunny weather create perfect beach holiday conditions.

You can explore coral reefs, marine life, and pristine beaches. Luxury resorts offer spa treatments, fine dining, and water sports. You can enjoy sunset cruises, fishing trips, and island hopping. White sand beaches and turquoise waters provide peaceful retreats.

Switzerland

Switzerland transforms into a winter wonderland during December with snow-covered Alps. You can enjoy skiing, festive markets, and charming mountain towns. The cost of the Switzerland trip covers accommodation, ski passes, and transport. Cities like Zurich and Lucerne glow with Christmas decorations.

You get to explore alpine villages, frozen lakes, and historic castles. Winter sports include skiing, snowboarding, and sledging. You can enjoy Swiss chocolate, cheese fondue, and warm beverages. Christmas markets and festive celebrations create magical European experiences.

Singapore

Singapore buzzes with festive energy during December celebrations. You can explore Christmas lights on Orchard Road and Marina Bay shows. The cost of a Singapore trip includes accommodation, attraction tickets, and shopping. Pleasant weather makes garden visits and amusement park trips comfortable.

You can visit botanical gardens, theme parks, and shopping districts. Cultural neighbourhoods showcase diverse heritage and local cuisine. You can enjoy night safari, river cruises, and rooftop bars. Festive decorations and entertainment shows create memorable family experiences.

In December 2026, you can enjoy the following long weekends:

25th to 27th December

• Friday, 25th December - Christmas Day

• Saturday, 26th December - Weekend

• Sunday, 27th December - Weekend