Pongal 2026 Public Holiday List: Schools, Banks And Offices, What's Open And Closed This Festive Season

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As January rolls in, the festive spirit of Pongal begins to take over, especially in Tamil Nadu and parts of South India. While the festival is about celebrating the harvest, for many of us it also raises a practical question: what will be open, and what will be closed? From schools to banks and government offices, here's a clear guide for Pongal 2026.

When Is Pongal In 2026?

Pongal isn't just a single day celebration, it's a series of festivities spread over several days:

• Bhogi: 13 January 2026 - marks the start of the harvest festival celebrations.
• Pongal / Makar Sankranti: 14 January 2026 (Wednesday) - the main festival day.
• Thai Pongal / Public Holiday: 15 January 2026 (Thursday) - officially declared holiday in Tamil Nadu.
• Mattu Pongal / Thiruvalluvar Day: 16 January 2026 (Friday) - also a state holiday.
• Kanum Pongal / Uzhavar Thirunal: 17 January 2026 (Saturday) - concludes the festival.

In Tamil Nadu, the three days from 15-17 January are official public holidays for government offices, banks, and schools.

Schools And Colleges During Pongal

For students and parents, Pongal usually means a break from routine.

Tamil Nadu Schools: Closed from 15 to 17 January. Some schools may have a shortened day or optional closure on 14 January, but the main break is the three-day stretch.

Other States: Schools in states like Telangana may also observe Sankranti holidays, but in Maharashtra and northern states, Pongal is usually not a public holiday. Private schools can set their own schedules, so it's worth checking with them directly.

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Banks And Government Offices

If you need to plan errands, it's important to know which offices will be operating.

Tamil Nadu: Banks and government offices will be closed on 15, 16, and 17 January.

Central Government Offices: Pongal on 14 January is a restricted holiday nationally. Central offices usually stay open, but employees can choose to take leave.

Quick Reference: What Will Be Open Or Closed?

Tamil Nadu Schools

• 14 Jan: Depends
• 15-17 Jan: Closed
• 26 Jan: Closed

Tamil Nadu Banks/Offices

• 14 Jan: Open (restricted)
• 15-17 Jan: Closed
• 26 Jan: Closed

Kerala / Other States Schools

• 14 Jan: Open/depends
• 15-17 Jan: Varies
• 26 Jan: Closed

Central Government Offices

• 14 Jan: Open (restricted)
• 15-17 Jan: Depends by state
• 26 Jan: Closed

Private Offices & Workplaces

• 14 Jan: Open (optional)
• 15-17 Jan: Varies
• 26 Jan: Closed

Planning Around Pongal

For anyone living in or traveling to South India, Pongal is a good time to plan ahead. If you have tasks involving banks, government offices, or schools, it's best to complete them before the holiday period begins. Also, with schools closed, families often use this time for gatherings and short trips.

Pongal 2026 is a period that affects daily schedules across schools, offices, and banks. By knowing the official holiday dates and what stays open or closed, you can plan your work, errands, and family time without surprises. Whether you're celebrating the harvest or simply catching a short break, this guide ensures you won't miss a beat.