Holi in Canada
Date: 3 March 2026
Introduction
Holi in Canada brightens the cold winter with a kaleidoscope of colors and happiness. Indian communities and locals unite across cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary to celebrate this ancient festival through colorful gatherings, bonfires, and community fairs that signify the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring.
History
Holi traces its origins to the devotion of Prince Prahlada and the defeat of the demoness Holika, symbolizing the triumph of faith and virtue. In Canada, the festival represents harmony within multiculturalism—bringing together diverse groups to celebrate friendship, renewal, and cultural pride across provinces each spring.
Rituals
- Light the Holika Dahan bonfire during the full moon evening to mark the destruction of negativity.
- Offer prayers and sing devotional songs at temples such as Hindu Sabha Mandir and Vishnu Mandir.
- Join in the Rangwali Holi festivities the following day by throwing colors in parks and community grounds.
- Prepare festive treats like gujiya, puran poli, malpua, and thandai to share with family and friends.
- Attend multicultural melas, charity drives, and Indian cultural exhibitions organized by local diaspora associations.
Events
- Holika Dahan:
Bonfire ritual symbolizing the triumph of righteousness, held on Phalguna Purnima night across Canada.2 March 2026 6:08 PM EST - 2 March 2026 8:40 PM EST
- Rangwali Holi (Dhulandi):
The festival of colors where people joyfully apply vibrant powders, celebrating togetherness and forgiveness.3 March 2026 10:00 AM EST - 3 March 2026 6:00 PM EST
- Purnima Tithi:
Full moon period marking the sacred timing for Holika Dahan rituals in Canada.2 March 2026 5:56 PM EST - 3 March 2026 5:06 PM EST
Major Cities
Toronto
Toronto’s Nathan Phillips Square and Hindu temples host massive Holi events featuring bonfires, colorful powder play, bhajan performances, and delicious food stalls that attract thousands from the Greater Toronto Area.
Vancouver
Vancouver celebrates Holi with vibrant waterfront gatherings, cultural parades, and DJ-fueled color fests held at Robson Square and community parks.
Calgary
Calgary’s Hindu temples and Indian Cultural Centre organize traditional Holika Dahan followed by colorful Rangwali Holi festivities filled with community joy and music.
Montreal
Montreal’s diverse Indo-Canadian community celebrates Holi with color splash events, devotional singing, and Indian food festivals across community centers.
Ottawa
Ottawa’s Holi celebrations combine bonfires at local temples with city-organized cultural showcases promoting Indian traditions.
Edmonton
Edmonton rejoices in Holi with color play gatherings, bonfire rituals, and food fairs that bring together families from all parts of Alberta.
Brampton
Brampton features vibrant Holi melas and temple-hosted color festivals with Indian music, dance, and community meals fostering festive harmony.
Mississauga
Mississauga’s Celebration Square lights up with colorful Holi performances, Bollywood dance shows, and family-oriented color events.
Surrey
Surrey’s Indo-Canadian Cultural Society hosts traditional Holika Dahan and Holi events with devotional songs and friendly color play across parks.
Stratford
Stratford’s community gathers for outdoor Holi activities with storytelling sessions for children, rustic Indian meals, and live music.
FAQ
When is Holi 2026 celebrated in Canada?
In Canada, Holi 2026 will be celebrated on March 2 for Holika Dahan and March 3 for Rangwali Holi celebrations.
What is the Holika Dahan muhurat time in Canada?
The Holika Dahan muhurat in Canada is from 6:08 PM to 8:40 PM Eastern Standard Time on March 2, 2026.
Where are the major Holi events held in Canada?
Major Holi festivals in 2026 will take place in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal, and Mississauga, featuring bonfires, cultural music, and community color celebrations.