Understanding Dry Days in India is important for individuals, businesses, restaurants, bars, liquor shops, and event planners across the country. A dry day refers to a date on which the sale of alcohol is prohibited by the government. These restrictions are usually imposed during national holidays, religious festivals, election days, and important state-specific observances.
In this detailed guide, we bring you the Dry Days in India 2026, including a month-wise and state-wise breakdown, with special focus on major cities like Delhi, Noida, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore. This article also covers the dry day list 2026, reasons behind dry days, and city-specific details such as Dry Days in Delhi, Dry Days in Maharashtra, and Dry Days in Mumbai 2026.
What Are Dry Days in India?
Dry days in India are officially notified dates when the sale, purchase, and consumption of alcohol in public places is restricted. These days are declared under the Excise Act and vary slightly from state to state depending on local traditions, elections, and cultural significance.
Why Dry Days Are Observed
- National holidays (Republic Day, Independence Day)
- Religious festivals (Holi, Eid, Diwali, Christmas)
- Birth anniversaries of national leaders
- State elections and municipal elections
- State foundation days
Dry Days in India 2026 – All States Overview
The dry days in India 2026 all states list date includes national dry days applicable across the country and several state-specific dry days, especially in Maharashtra, Delhi NCR, and Karnataka.
Below is the complete month-wise dry day list 2026, as announced and expected based on official excise calendars.
Table of Contents
Dry Days in January 2026 (5 Days)
January marks the beginning of the year with important national and regional observances.
Dry days in January: 5 days in January
- 14 January, Wednesday – Makar Sankranti
- 13–16 January, Tuesday–Friday – Maharashtra Municipal Elections (Only in Maharashtra)
- 26 January, Monday – Republic Day
Impact in Major Cities
- Dry Days in Mumbai & Maharashtra: Municipal election dry days apply strictly
- Dry Day in Delhi 2026: Only Republic Day and Makar Sankranti observed
- Dry Days in Noida: Republic Day applies across NCR
Read More: Small Birthday Party Venues in Noida 2026 – The Perfect Blend of Comfort and Fun
Dry Days in February 2026 (3 Days)
February includes religious and cultural observances across different regions.
Dry days in February: 3 days in February
- 15 February, Sunday – Shivratri
- 19 February, Thursday – Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti (Only in Maharashtra)
- 23 February, Monday – Swami Dayanand Saraswati Jayanti
State Focus
- Dry day in Maharashtra 2026: Shivaji Jayanti strictly observed
- Dry Days in Mumbai: Liquor shops closed on all listed dates
- Dry Days in Delhi & Noida: Shivratri and Swami Dayanand Jayanti applicable
Dry Days in March 2026 (4 Days)
March has multiple religious festivals impacting alcohol sales nationwide.
Dry days in March: 4 days in March
- 4 March, Wednesday – Holi
- 20 March, Friday – Eid ul-Fitr
- 23 March, Monday – Shaheed Diwas (Only in Maharashtra)
- 26 March, Friday – Ram Navami
City-Wise Notes
- Dry Days in Delhi: Holi, Eid, Ram Navami
- Dry Days in Mumbai 2026: All four dates applicable
- Dry Days in Bangalore: Holi and Ram Navami observed
- Dry Days in Kolkata: Holi and Eid ul-Fitr
Dry Days in April 2026 (3 Days)
April includes important religious and constitutional observances.
Dry days in April: 3 days in April
- 3 April, Friday – Good Friday
- 10 April, Friday – Mahavir Jayanti
- 14 April, Tuesday – Ambedkar Jayanti
Regional Impact
- Dry Days in Delhi NCR: All three days applicable
- Dry Days in Maharashtra: Statewide closure
- Dry Days in Bangalore: Observed officially
- Dry Days in Kolkata: Good Friday and Ambedkar Jayanti
Dry Days in May 2026 (3 Days)
May includes a mix of state and national religious observances.
Dry days in May: 2 days in May
(Practically observed as 3 in many states)
- 1 May, Friday – Maharashtra Day (Only in Maharashtra)
- 1 May, Friday – Buddha Purnima
- 27 May, Wednesday – Bakrid (Eid-al-Adha)
Key Highlights
- Dry Day in Mumbai 2026: Maharashtra Day + Buddha Purnima
- Dry Days in Delhi & Noida: Buddha Purnima and Bakrid
- Dry Days in Bangalore & Kolkata: Bakrid observed
Dry Days in July 2026 (2 Days)
July includes important Hindu religious observances.
Dry days in July: 2 days in July
- 25 July, Saturday – Ashadi Ekadashi
- 29 July, Wednesday – Guru Purnima
State-Specific
- Dry Days in Maharashtra: Both dates strictly enforced
- Dry Days in Mumbai: Liquor sale prohibited
- Dry Days in Delhi & Noida: Guru Purnima observed
Dry Days in August 2026 (2 Days)
August includes major national and Islamic observances.
Dry days in August: 2 days in August
- 15 August, Saturday – Independence Day
- 25 August, Tuesday – Eid-e-Milad
City Impact
- Dry Days in Delhi NCR: Independence Day strictly enforced
- Dry Days in Mumbai & Maharashtra: Both dates applicable
- Dry Days in Bangalore & Kolkata: Observed officially
Dry Days in September 2026 (3 Days)
September has region-specific Ganesh festival observances.
Dry days in September: 3 days in September
- 4 September, Friday – Janmashtami
- 14 September, Monday – Ganesh Chaturthi (Only in Maharashtra and Karnataka)
- 25 September, Friday – Anant Chaturdashi (Only in Maharashtra)
Regional Focus
- Dry Days in Mumbai: All three days
- Dry Days in Maharashtra: Ganesh festival closures
- Dry Days in Bangalore: Ganesh Chaturthi applicable
- Dry Days in Delhi: Janmashtami only
Dry Days in October 2026 (3 Days)
October includes key national and cultural celebrations.
Dry days in October: 3 days in October
- 2 October, Friday – Gandhi Jayanti
- 7 October, Wednesday – Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti
- 20 October, Tuesday – Dussehra
Major Cities
- Dry Days in Delhi NCR: All three days
- Dry Days in Mumbai 2026: Strict enforcement
- Dry Days in Kolkata & Bangalore: Gandhi Jayanti and Dussehra
Dry Days in November 2026 (3 Days)
November includes important Sikh and Hindu festivals.
Dry days in November: 3 days in November
- 5 November, Thursday – Kartiki Ekadashi
- 8 November, Sunday – Diwali (Only in Delhi NCR)
- 24 November, Tuesday – Guru Tegh Bahadur Shaheedi Diwas
- 24 November, Tuesday – Guru Nanak Jayanti
Notes
- Dry day in Delhi 2026 list: Diwali + Sikh Gurpurabs
- Dry Days in Noida: Diwali applicable
- Dry Days in Maharashtra & Mumbai: Sikh Jayantis observed
Dry Days in December 2026 (1 Day)
December has a single nationwide dry day.
Dry days in December: 1 day in December
- 25 December, Friday – Christmas
Nationwide Impact
- Dry Days in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore: Christmas observed across all states
Also Read: Dry Days in India 2026 Complete List
Dry Days in Major Cities – Quick Summary
Dry Days in Delhi 2026
Includes Republic Day, Independence Day, Gandhi Jayanti, Holi, Diwali (Delhi NCR), and major religious festivals.
Dry Days in Noida
Same as Delhi NCR, with Diwali, national holidays, and major religious events.
Dry Days in Mumbai 2026
Includes all national dry days plus additional Maharashtra-specific dry days like Shivaji Jayanti, Maharashtra Day, Ganesh festivals, and election days.
Dry Days in Maharashtra 2026
Highest number of dry days due to state festivals and elections.
Dry Days in Kolkata
Mainly national holidays and major religious festivals.
Dry Days in Bangalore
Includes national holidays, Ganesh Chaturthi, and major Hindu festivals.
Important Note for Businesses & Consumers
- Dry days may vary slightly based on local government notifications
- Bars, pubs, and liquor shops must strictly follow excise rules
- Private consumption laws differ by state
- Always confirm with local excise authorities before events
Final Words
This Dry Days in India 2026 all states list is designed to help individuals, hospitality businesses, and travelers plan ahead. Whether you are searching for dry day in Delhi 2026, dry day in Maharashtra 2026, or dry days in Mumbai, this guide covers everything in one place.
Bookmark this page for quick reference and stay updated with official announcements throughout the year.
FAQs
1. How many states are dry states in India?
Currently, five states in India are completely dry, where the sale and consumption of alcohol is prohibited by law. These include Gujarat, Bihar, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Lakshadweep. Apart from these dry states, other states follow Dry Days in India 2026 for national holidays, religious festivals, and elections. Businesses, bars, and liquor shops must adhere to these dry days, while private consumption may be allowed at home. Understanding these regulations helps residents and travelers plan purchases and events without any inconvenience.
2. How many dry days are there in India?
The total number of dry days varies across states, but most regions in India observe around 20–30 dry days per year. These include national holidays, religious festivals, and election days. States like Maharashtra, Delhi, and Karnataka often have additional dry days. The Dry Days in India 2026 calendar ensures that bars, pubs, and liquor shops follow legal restrictions. Since the exact dates can differ by state, it is always recommended to check official notifications to plan celebrations, weddings, or social events accordingly.
3. What is a dry day in Delhi 2026?
A dry day in Delhi 2026 is a date when the sale and service of alcohol are prohibited by the government. On these days, liquor shops, bars, pubs, and restaurants in Delhi NCR remain closed. Dry days are observed on important occasions such as Republic Day, Independence Day, Gandhi Jayanti, Holi, Diwali, and major religious festivals. Dry Days in India 2026 are designed to maintain public order and respect cultural or religious sentiments. While alcohol sale is banned, private consumption at home is generally allowed.
4. What are the dry days in December 2026?
In December 2026, there is one major nationwide dry day as per the official excise calendar.
- 25 December 2026 (Friday) – Christmas
On this day, bars, pubs, and liquor shops in major cities like Delhi, Noida, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata will remain closed. Observing this dry day ensures compliance with the law and respects the religious significance of Christmas. For planners and consumers, referring to Dry Days in India 2026 ensures they avoid purchasing or serving alcohol on restricted dates.
5. Which days are declared as dry days in India?
Dry days in India 2026 are officially declared on national holidays, religious festivals, and election days. Popular examples include Republic Day, Independence Day, Gandhi Jayanti, Holi, Diwali, Eid, and Christmas. Certain states, like Maharashtra and Karnataka, add extra dry days for local festivals such as Ganesh Chaturthi or Shivaji Jayanti. Businesses, bars, and restaurants must strictly follow these dates to comply with state excise laws. Checking the Dry Days in India 2026 calendar in advance is essential for planning events and alcohol purchases.
6. What time do liquor shops close in Noida?
In Noida, liquor shop timings are regulated by the Uttar Pradesh excise department. On normal days, most shops open at 10:00 AM and close by 10:00 PM. However, during Dry Days in India 2026, all liquor shops in Noida remain closed for the entire day. Election days, religious festivals, and national holidays often result in temporary changes to shop timings. Checking local notifications is recommended to avoid inconvenience, especially when planning parties, weddings, or buying alcohol in advance.
7. Is alcohol allowed in Noida Metro?
Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited in the Noida Metro, including platforms, stations, and trains. Even during Dry Days in India 2026, carrying alcohol for personal use is allowed only within legal limits. Drinking or opening alcohol in public areas of the metro may lead to fines or legal action. Travelers and residents should always comply with metro rules and excise regulations to avoid penalties, particularly on dry days when enforcement is stricter.
8. Can you buy alcohol on dry days in Delhi?
No, alcohol cannot be purchased on dry days in Delhi 2026. On these dates, all liquor shops, bars, pubs, and restaurants remain closed. Online or home delivery of alcohol is also not allowed. While private consumption at home is generally permitted, selling or serving alcohol publicly is illegal and can result in fines or license cancellation. Following the Dry Days in India 2026 schedule ensures compliance and prevents any legal issues during holidays or festivals.
9. Are bars and pubs closed on dry days in India?
Yes, on Dry Days in India 2026, bars and pubs are required to stop serving alcohol. Even if food service continues, alcohol sales are prohibited across the country. This rule applies to hotels, lounges, clubs, and restaurants. Cities like Delhi, Noida, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata enforce dry days strictly, especially during elections and national holidays. Violating these regulations can result in heavy fines, legal action, and cancellation of business licenses. Planning ahead using the Dry Days in India 2026 calendar helps avoid disruptions.
10. Do dry days apply to private parties and hotels?
Yes, dry days in India 2026 apply to private parties, hotels, and event venues if alcohol is being served. Even in hotels or banquet halls, serving alcohol on dry days is prohibited unless special permission is granted, which is rare. Luxury hotels may remain open for food service, but alcoholic beverages cannot be sold. Checking the official Dry Days in India 2026 list before planning weddings, corporate events, or parties ensures compliance and avoids fines or legal issues.
