Maharashtra schools will observe their Diwali vacation from November 2 to November 14, 2026, under the state’s academic calendar for 2026–27. Schools are scheduled to resume classes on November 16, giving students and teachers a break during the festive season.
The schedule covers recognized primary, secondary and higher secondary schools. The Secondary Education Department has issued a circular outlining the academic sessions and holiday arrangements for the school year.
Maharashtra School Diwali Holidays 2026: Important Dates
The Diwali break will run for 13 calendar days, from Monday, November 2, through Saturday, November 14. Students are expected to return to school on Monday, November 16, following the regular Sunday break.
The first academic term began on June 15, 2026, and is scheduled to end on October 31. The second term will run from November 16, 2026, through May 1, 2027.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| First term ends | October 31, 2026 |
| Diwali vacation begins | November 2, 2026 |
| Diwali vacation ends | November 14, 2026 |
| Schools reopen; second term begins | November 16, 2026 |
| Summer vacation begins | May 3, 2027 |
| Summer vacation ends | June 14, 2027 |
Which Festivals Fall During the School Vacation?
The holiday period includes several important days associated with Diwali celebrations. Dhanteras falls on November 6, Diwali Amavasya, or Lakshmi Puja, on November 8, Diwali Padwa on November 10, and Bhai Dooj on November 11.
These dates give families time to celebrate together, visit relatives and take part in traditional festivities. The vacation also provides students with time away from regular classroom schedules.
What the Education Department’s Calendar Says
The academic schedule sets out the dates for both terms and the main school vacations. Schools have also been instructed to ensure that total holidays during the academic year do not exceed 76 days under the applicable secondary school code.
The calendar is intended to help schools organize teaching schedules and other academic activities throughout the year. School administrations must plan their activities in line with the applicable departmental instructions.
Will All Maharashtra Schools Follow the Same Diwali Dates?
The statewide calendar provides the general schedule, but parents should check notices issued by their children’s schools for any local changes. Reports from Pune district indicate that some schools have faced changes to their vacation schedules, creating uncertainty over the dates.
Parents should therefore confirm the final holiday and reopening dates directly with their school, particularly if examinations, travel or other arrangements depend on the break.
