Holi in United States
Date: 3 March 2026
Introduction
Holi in the USA unites communities with a burst of color and happiness, where the Indian diaspora—and now multicultural crowds—gather in parks and temples for music, dance, prayers, and color-splash celebrations representing love, equality, and spring’s arrival.
History
Holi commemorates the triumph of devotion and truth, symbolized by the tale of Prahlada and Holika, and honors Lord Krishna’s playful traditions of color. Across the United States, Holi has evolved into a cultural bridge uniting diverse communities through the message of joy and forgiveness.
Rituals
- Light the Holika Dahan bonfire on the evening before Holi to signify the victory of good over evil.
- Offer prayers and rituals in temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Krishna.
- Engage in color-throwing celebrations on Holi morning at community parks and cultural centers.
- Prepare traditional sweets like gujiya and thandai to enjoy with friends and family.
- Attend Indian cultural fairs, music festivals, and Bollywood dance events hosted by local associations.
Events
- Holika Dahan:
Sacred bonfire ritual symbolizing the victory of good over evil, performed on Phalguna Purnima night.3 March 2026 6:23 PM EST - 3 March 2026 8:51 PM EST
- Dhulandi (Rangwali Holi):
The main celebration day when people apply colors, dance, and spread joy.4 March 2026 9:00 AM EST - 4 March 2026 6:00 PM EST
- Purnima Tithi:
Full moon phase marking the auspicious time for Holika Dahan.2 March 2026 5:55 PM EST - 3 March 2026 5:07 PM EST
Major Cities
New York
New York hosts one of America’s largest Holi festivals at Governor’s Island and Central Park, with music concerts, color play zones, and dance performances bringing thousands together.
San Francisco
Bay Area’s Holi events include dazzling open-air festivals with colorful powders, Indian street food, and live fusion music near the Civic Center and Fremont temples.
Chicago
Chicago celebrates Holi at Naperville parks and temples, where families come together for bonfire prayers and color throw gatherings.
Houston
Houston’s cultural temples host Holika Dahan ceremonies followed by grand Holi melas filled with music, dance, and color games.
Los Angeles
LA’s Festival of Colors in Spanish Fork and Santa Monica brings together global crowds with yoga, dance, chanting, and color throwing in one joyful experience.
Atlanta
Atlanta’s Indian community celebrates Holi with temple rituals, bonfires, and community fairs featuring Indian delicacies.
Seattle
Seattle’s Hindu temples and local parks organize color carnivals and art workshops celebrating Holi’s spirit of renewal and spring.
FAQ
When is Holi 2026 celebrated in the USA?
In the USA, Holi 2026 will be celebrated on March 3 and March 4, with Holika Dahan on the evening of March 3 and color festivities on March 4.
What is the Holika Dahan muhurat time for 2026?
Holika Dahan in the USA takes place from 6:23 PM to 8:51 PM Eastern Time on March 3, 2026.
Where are the major Holi events held in the USA?
Top Holi events take place in New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Houston, and Chicago with grand color festivals, cultural fairs, and temple ceremonies.