Diwali 2024 School Holidays: Find Out Which Days School Will Be Closed

Diwali, India’s most beloved and awaited festival, is celebrated with extraordinary excitement and vibrance across the nation. In 2024, Diwali falls on October 31, marking the beginning of a festive period that many eagerly look forward to. This celebration not only illuminates homes and streets but also brings families together as people take time off from their regular routines to celebrate. For students, especially, the festival provides a welcome break from academics, as schools and colleges across the country close for several days. Offices and other institutions may also remain closed, allowing families to enjoy this cherished holiday together.

Diwali Holidays: School Closures Across Regions

Typically, Diwali vacations for schools and colleges span a few days and are often extended by regional festivals or local customs, allowing students to spend time with family and friends. Here's a detailed look at the school holidays for Diwali 2024, including related festivals that extend the festive break:

1. Diwali (October 31, 2024)

The main day of Diwali falls on Thursday, October 31. Schools and colleges in many states will remain closed on this day to allow students and teachers to participate in the celebrations. This day is marked by lighting diyas, sharing sweets, and performing rituals for prosperity.

2. Govardhan Puja (November 2, 2024)

The day after Diwali is often celebrated with Govardhan Puja, which falls on Saturday, November 2 this year. Many schools that close for Diwali extend their holiday to include Govardhan Puja, a day of worshipping the divine to ensure abundance and happiness in the coming year.

3. Bhai Dooj (November 3, 2024)

Bhai Dooj, a significant day in the Diwali calendar, is observed on Sunday, November 3. This festival celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. In many areas, schools remain closed until Bhai Dooj, providing students with an extended Diwali break from October 31 to November 3, allowing them ample time to enjoy each festive moment with family.

Chhath Puja Holiday Extension in Bihar, Jharkhand, and UP

Following Diwali, another significant festival, Chhath Puja, is celebrated with devotion in states like Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. This year, Chhath Puja will take place on November 7 and 8, and schools in these regions will remain closed for several days to honour this revered tradition.

Chhath Puja Dates

• November 7, 2024: The Chhath Puja begins with rituals and prayers to the setting sun on this day.
• November 8, 2024: Devotees gather in large numbers near rivers and water bodies to worship the rising sun, marking the culmination of this significant observance.

In Bihar, schools typically remain closed from November 6 to November 9, ensuring that families can participate fully in the Chhath celebrations. This holiday period allows students and families to prepare for and engage in various rituals, bringing an enriching close to the Diwali festival season.

Diwali and Chhath Puja: Key School Closure Dates for 2024

For families planning their schedules and travels, here’s a quick summary of the anticipated school closures:

• Diwali: October 31, 2024
• Govardhan Puja: November 2, 2024
• Bhai Dooj: November 3, 2024
• Chhath Puja (Bihar, Jharkhand, UP): November 6 to November 9, 2024

Regional Variations and Local Customs

In some regions, additional days may be declared based on local traditions, while other areas may observe only the primary Diwali day. To avoid last-minute surprises, families are advised to check with their children’s schools for the exact holiday schedule, as dates may slightly differ based on regional and institutional practices.

Also Read: Dhanteras 2024: Date, Puja Vidhi, Shubh Muhurat, Rituals and More