In 2026, Tamil Nadu will celebrate a vibrant mix of festivals, deeply rooted in its rich cultural and religious heritage. Pongal, the harvest festival, marks the beginning of the year with fervent enthusiasm. Traditional rituals, colorful kolams (rangoli), and the aroma of freshly cooked Pongal dishes fill the air, fostering a sense of unity and gratitude.
The grandeur of Tamil Nadu's religious festivals remains unparalleled. The majestic Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai hosts the Chithirai Thiruvizha, reenacting the celestial wedding of Lord Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar. Devotees from far and wide gather to witness the elaborate processions and cultural performances.
Navaratri, dedicated to the goddess Durga, unfolds as a nine-night spectacle of music, dance, and religious fervor. Intricately adorned dolls, arranged in steps known as 'Golu,' adorn households, creating a joyous atmosphere during this auspicious period.
The eclectic Diwali celebration illuminates Tamil Nadu with a dazzling array of lights, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness. Crackers, sweets, and colorful decorations add to the festive charm, bringing families and communities together.
Beyond religious fervor, Tamil Nadu embraces the secular festival of Puthandu, the Tamil New Year. Joyous gatherings, feasts, and cultural events mark the auspicious occasion, reflecting the state's commitment to unity in diversity.
As 2026 unfolds, Tamil Nadu's festivals will showcase the state's cultural richness, fostering a sense of unity and shared heritage among its diverse populace.
| DAY | DATE | FESTIVAL |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | Jan 27, 2026 | Masik Karthigai |
| Thursday | Jan 29, 2026 | Jaya Ekadashi |
| Friday | Jan 30, 2026 | Pradosham Vratam |
| JANUARY | ||
|---|---|---|
| Thursday | Jan 01, 2026 | Pradosham Vratam |
| Saturday | Jan 03, 2026 | Anvadhan, Arudra Darshan, Pournami Upavasam |
| Sunday | Jan 04, 2026 | Ishti |
| Tuesday | Jan 06, 2026 | Sangada Hara Chathurti |
| Tuesday | Jan 13, 2026 | Bhogi Pandigai |
| Wednesday | Jan 14, 2026 | Pongal, Makara Sankranti, Shattila Ekadashi |
| Thursday | Jan 15, 2026 | Mattu Pongal |
| Friday | Jan 16, 2026 | Pradosham Vratam, Shivaratri Vratham |
| Sunday | Jan 18, 2026 | Anvadhan, Thai Amavasai |
| Monday | Jan 19, 2026 | Ishti |
| Thursday | Jan 22, 2026 | Vinayaka Chathurti |
| Saturday | Jan 24, 2026 | Shasti Vratam |
| Sunday | Jan 25, 2026 | Ratha Sapthami |
| Tuesday | Jan 27, 2026 | Masik Karthigai |
| Thursday | Jan 29, 2026 | Jaya Ekadashi |
| Friday | Jan 30, 2026 | Pradosham Vratam |