Pongal 2026 Public Holidays List: Schools, Banks, Offices & More; What Will Be Open or Closed? Check Dates

Pongal, the vibrant harvest festival celebrated across Tamil Nadu, is set to begin this year on Wednesday, coinciding with Makar Sankranti. Falling in the Tamil month of Thai, Pongal is a multi-day festival that honors the Sun God, marks the harvest season, and celebrates the bond between humans, animals and nature.

Pongal 2026 From January 13 to 16: Check Holidays For 5 Days in Tamil Nadu

Pongal this year is spread over four days, from January 13 to January 16, with schools, colleges, banks and government offices observing extended holidays.

Bhogi Pongal on 13 January 2026

The festival begins with Bhogi Pongal on Tuesday, January 13, a day dedicated to cleansing and renewal. Families burn old and unwanted items in bonfires, symbolizing the end of the past and a fresh start. However, the official holiday for Bhogi is still pending declaration by the Tamil Nadu government.

Thai Pongal or Surya Pongal will be celebrated on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. Families worship the Sun God and prepare the traditional sweet rice dish, Pongal, using freshly harvested rice, milk, and jaggery, which is offered to the deity.

Auspicious Timings for Thai Pongal 2026

Thai Pongal Sankranti Moment: 03:13 PM

Brahma Muhurat: 05:27 AM - 06:21 AM

Pratah Sandhya: 05:54 AM - 07:15 AM

Vijaya Muhurat: 02:15 PM - 02:57 PM

Amrit Kalam: 03:23 PM - 05:10 PM

Nishita Muhurat: 12:03 AM - 12:57 AM (January 15)

Mattu Pongal on 15 January 2026

The festival continues with Mattu Pongal on Thursday, January 15, when farmers honor and worship their cattle. Cattles are bathed, their horns painted, adorned with garlands, and offered special treats in gratitude for their contribution to agriculture. This day also coincides with Thiruvalluvar Day, celebrating the revered Tamil poet and philosopher.

Kaanum Pongal on 16 January 2026

The festivities conclude with Kaanum Pongal on Friday, January 16, a day for family gatherings, relaxation, and cultural celebrations. People visit relatives, share meals, and offer prayers for prosperity, health, and well-being. In addition, Uzhavar Thinam, or Farmers' Day, is observed on this day to recognize the contribution of farmers to society.

Public Holidays in Pongal 2026: Check What Will Remain Open or Close From 13 to 16 January 2026 in Tamil Nadu

School Holidays in Pongal 2026: The Tamil Nadu government has declared official holidays for schools and offices. Schools will remain closed from January 15 to January 17, with Pongal on January 15, Mattu Pongal and Thiruvalluvar Day on January 16 and Kaanum Pongal and Uzhavar Thinam on January 17. The final day of holidays coincides with the weekly off on Sunday, January 18, creating an extended festive break for students.

Bank Holidays in Pongal 2026: Banks will also observe holidays during Pongal. Government and private bank branches in Tamil Nadu will remain closed on Thursday, January 15 (Pongal), Friday, January 16 (Thiruvalluvar Day, Chennai), and Saturday, January 17 (Uzhavar Thirunal, Chennai).

Tamil Nadu Pongal Holidays List Date-wise:

• 14 January: Bhogi - Decision Pending
• 15 January: Pongal - Public Holiday
• 16 January: Mattu Pongal / Thiruvalluvar Day - Public Holiday
• 17 January: Kaanum Pongal / Uzhavar Thinam - Public Holiday
• 18 January: Sunday - Weekly Off

What Stays Open or Partially Open in Pongal:

Online Banking & UPI Services: Continue to operate.

ATMs: Cash availability might be limited.

Essential Services: Emergency services remain operational.

Retail Stores: Smaller shops may remain open; large retailers may close or operate reduced hours.