Delhi Liquor Shops Open on Holi 2026: The Delhi government made a rare policy change for Holi 2026 by eliminating Holi from its list of dry days. Officials have permitted licensed liquor shops to operate throughout the main festival day on March 4. The current situation violates established customs which prohibit alcohol sales during important holidays to ensure public safety.
The decision follows an excise notification issued earlier in January, affirming that licensed wine and spirit outlets in the National Capital will continue operations as normal on Holi, subject to standard licensing rules.
Delhi Liquor Shops Open on Holi 2026
Officials emphasise that this change does not relax legal requirements for retailers or patrons age checks and licensing compliance remain mandatory. Law-enforcement agencies are stepping up preparations to ensure celebrations are safe and responsible.
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How Other States Are Treating Holi in 2026?
Maharashtra (including Mumbai and Pune): Holi on March 4, 2026, is still observed as a dry day. Liquor shops, bars and permit rooms will be closed all day under the state’s excise policy, and enforcement is expected throughout the festival.
Telangana (Hyderabad): Wine shops, bars and toddy shops are ordered closed throughout Holi festivities to help maintain peace; restrictions include daytime closure even in restaurant-attached bars.
Karnataka (in some cities like Belagavi): Local rules include temporary bans on sale and transportation of liquor around Holi; details vary by district.
Other States: The March 2026 dry-day calendar designates Holi, which falls on March 4, as a dry day for various regions throughout India, including Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh and several other states.
