Every spring, communities across Canada come alive with vibrant bursts of red, green, yellow, and blue. This is Holi, widely known as the Festival of Colours. It is a time of joy, unity, and the triumph of good over evil.
For South Asian communities in Canada, Holi is a significant cultural event that bridges distances and connects generations. Whether you are participating for the first time or looking to plan your family’s celebrations, understanding the traditions and timing of this festival helps you make the most of the occasion.
In 2026, Holi falls on Wednesday, March 4. While the date changes every year based on the lunar calendar, the spirit of the festival remains the same. It is a day to forgive past grievances, celebrate the arrival of spring, and enjoy the company of loved ones.
What is Holi?
Holi is an ancient Hindu festival that originated in India but is now celebrated globally. At its core, it marks the end of winter and the arrival of spring. The festival signifies the blossoming of love and, for many, a fresh start.
The celebration is deeply rooted in mythology. One of the most popular stories involves Prahlad, a young devotee of Lord Vishnu, and his aunt Holika. Despite attempts to harm Prahlad because of his devotion, he was protected by his faith, while the evil Holika was defeated. This story symbolizes the victory of good over evil, a central theme of the festivities.
Another tradition links Holi to the love story of Radha and Krishna. Legend says Krishna, who had a dark complexion, playfully applied colour to Radha’s face to be like her. This playful act evolved into the tradition of applying colourful powders, known as gulal, on friends and family.
When is Holi 2026?
Holi is celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu lunar month Phalguna. Because it relies on the lunar cycle, the date shifts on the Gregorian calendar each year.
In 2026, Holi will be celebrated on Wednesday, March 4.
The festivities typically begin the night before, known as Holika Dahan. During this evening, bonfires are lit to symbolize the burning of evil spirits and the triumph of righteousness. The main day of playing with colours, called Rangwali Holi, follows the next morning.
How is Holi Celebrated in Canada?
Canada is home to a large and vibrant South Asian diaspora. As a result, Holi celebrations here are enthusiastic and widespread. While the core traditions remain, the celebration often adapts to the Canadian climate and community structures.
The Throwing of Colours
The most recognizable part of Holi is the throwing of coloured powders. In warmer climates, this is often done outdoors with dry powder and coloured water. In Canada, weather can be unpredictable in March. If it is still cold or snowy, many celebrations move indoors to community centers, temples, or banquet halls. If the weather permits, outdoor parks become canvasses of colour.
Participants smear each other with gulal to express love and friendship. It is a great leveler; on the day of Holi, age, status, and background dissolve as everyone is covered in the same vibrancy.
Food and Music
No festival is complete without food. Holi feasts often include traditional sweets like gujiya (sweet dumplings filled with khoya and dried fruits), malpua (pancakes), and thandai (a spiced milk drink). In Canada, families often gather for potlucks or attend large community events where these traditional foods are served alongside local favourites.
Music and dance are also essential. You will hear traditional folk songs, energetic Bollywood hits, and the beat of the dhol (drum) at gatherings. It is a time for dancing freely and celebrating life.
Community Gatherings
In cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Brampton, and Surrey, large-scale public events are common. These are often organized by cultural associations or student groups. They provide a space for the wider community—not just those of South Asian descent—to learn about and participate in the festival.
Is Holi a Public Holiday in Canada?
Holi is not a statutory public holiday in Canada. Businesses, schools, and government offices remain open.
However, because it is a culturally significant day for many Canadians, some may choose to take a personal day off work or school to celebrate. If March 4 falls on a weekday, as it does in 2026, many public celebrations and parties might be scheduled for the weekends before or after the actual date to allow more people to attend.
Preparing for Holi
If you plan to attend a Holi event, a little preparation goes a long way.
- Wear white: The colours show up best on white clothing. However, wear old clothes that you do not mind getting stained, as the powders can be difficult to wash out.
- Protect your skin and hair: Applying a layer of coconut oil or moisturizer to your skin and hair before playing makes it easier to wash the colour off later.
- Respect boundaries: Holi is a fun and rowdy festival, but it is important to ensure everyone is comfortable. Always ask before applying colour to someone, especially strangers.
- Check local listings: Look for community events in your area. Many temples and cultural centers will have schedules posted weeks in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the date of Holi the same every year?
No. The date changes annually because it is determined by the Hindu lunar calendar. It typically falls in late February or March.
Is Holi only for Hindus?
While Holi has Hindu roots, it has become a cultural celebration that welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds. It is a festival of unity and spring, and everyone is generally welcome to participate in the festivities.
What are the colours made of?
Traditionally, colours were made from natural ingredients like turmeric, neem, and flowers. Today, synthetic colours are common, but many people and events prefer organic, herbal, and skin-safe colours to avoid irritation and environmental harm.
Can I send money to my family for Holi?
Yes. Many people choose to send money home to support family celebrations. Using a digital remittance service is a safe and fast way to ensure your loved ones receive funds in time for the festival.
Bringing Colour to Your Spring
Holi is more than just a date on the calendar. It is a reminder of the resilience of good, the beauty of nature, and the importance of community. Whether you are lighting a bonfire for Holika Dahan or laughing with friends while covered in blue and pink powder, the spirit of Holi brings warmth to the Canadian spring.
Mark your calendars for March 4, 2026, and get ready to celebrate renewal and togetherness.