School Holidays 2025: January 2025 has arrived, bringing the eagerly-awaited break during the chilly months – Winter Holidays for schools across India. Take a glimpse into the complete holiday list including festivities, breaks, and cultural celebrations, etc. Whether you a parent, teacher, or student, it’s always helpful to mark those extra hours in advance to relax, travel, or spend time with family.

Government and educational bodies usually release official holiday lists at the beginning of the year, so everyone knows what to expect from beginning to the end. While public and private school schedules might differ slightly, many festivities promise time off for students and staff alike. Here’s everything you need to know about school holidays in India in 2025.

January

January kicks off with a series of holidays. The 6th of Jan marks Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti, a significant occasion, celebrated especially in Northern India. Festivities continue with Makar Sankranti and Pongal on January 14, where students in various regions partake in harvest season celebrations. January ends with Republic Day on the 26th, national holiday that commemorates the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950

February

The month of love has its fair share of holidays too. Basant Panchami on February 2nd welcomes spring with hues of yellow. On the 19th, Maharashtra celebrates Shivaji Jayanti, remembering the legendary Maratha king. As the month draws to a close, schools would close for Guru Ravidas Jayanti on the 24th and Mahashivratri on the 26th.

March

March isn’t just about the academic year ending, but also a vibrant time for holidays like Holi (March 14th). Meanwhile, students must look forward for a day off for festivities like Ugadai, Chaitra Sukhladi, and Gudi Padwa on the 30th, and for Eid-ul-Fitr on the 31st.

April

April rolls in with Ram Navami on the 6th, honoring the birth of Lord Rama. The 10th marks Mahavir Jayanti, observed by the Jain community, and later in the month, schools remain close for Good Friday on the 18th, a crucial date in Christianity symbolizing sacrifice and resurrection.

May And June

Holiday is observed on May 12 on the occasion of Buddha Purnima, a day dedicated to Lord Buddha. June, mostly the month for academic exams, offers a holiday on the 7th for Eid-ul-Adha.

July

There will a holiday Muharram on the 6th of July, one of the most significant religious observances for the Muslim community.

August

The monsoon season brings with it Raksha Bandhan on August 9, a day celebrating the bond between siblings, followed by the nation’s Independence Day on the 15th. Janmashtami is celebrated on the 16th with cultural programs on tales of Krishna’s childhood. The month concludes with schools remaining closed for Ganesh Chaturthi on the 27th.

September

This month kicks off with Onam and Eid-e-Milad on September 5th, where Kerala comes alive with floral carpets and colorful processions. As Navratri celebrations unfold, anticipate school closures for Mahasaptami on the 29th, and Mahashtami on the 30th.

October

October is a treasure trove of celebrations beginning with Gandhi Jayanti on the 2nd. Later in the month, Diwali will be celebrated on the 20th. Schools will close on Bhai Dooj on the 23rd.

November

The cooler temperatures bring with them holidays like Guru Nanak Jayanti on November 5th, honoring the first Sikh Guru. The 24th remembers Guru Tegh Bahadur’s sacrifice, providing another break for reflection and respect.

December

As the year winds down, students can look forward to Christmas, on December 25th. It’s a time of joy, giving, and togetherness, making way for New Year celebrations as the calendar turns the page once again.

While states might tweak the dates, 2025 promises a well-deserved reprieve from the hustle and bustle of school life. Keep an eye on circulars from your local administration to stay updated on any changes to the holiday lineup, ensuring you make the most of your time off!