Diwali 2025 school holidays: Diwali, the festival of lights, arrives on Monday, October 20, 2025. While many schools across India are set to observe a holiday on this primary festival day, there’s a bit of confusion in some areas. Will the holiday be extended to October 21 for Govardhan Puja, or will it just be the 20th? This is a question many students and parents are asking.
The reason for this variation in holiday dates often comes down to individual state calendars and different education board policies. While CBSE and ICSE schools usually stick to a consistent national schedule, various state boards have issued their own extended breaks, which can shift the precise holiday dates for students.
Generally, the festive period includes important days like Dhanteras, Chhoti Diwali (Narak Chaturdashi), the main Diwali festival, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj. Students from CBSE, ICSE, and state boards can look forward to time off to celebrate these occasions with their families.
General Holiday Pattern Across India
For 2025, the typical Diwali break is expected to span from October 18 to October 23. During this period, schools will generally be closed for Dhanteras, Chhoti Diwali, the primary Diwali celebration, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj. However, it’s worth noting that this schedule might vary in certain states, especially those observing additional festivals like Chhath Puja or other local administrative holidays.
Most CBSE and ICSE affiliated schools are anticipated to adhere to this six-day holiday period, though local authorities may introduce specific adjustments.
State-wise Diwali School Holidays 2025
Many state governments and their respective education departments have released their specific holiday notifications. Here’s a breakdown of how the Diwali breaks are looking across different regions:
| State | Holiday Dates | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rajasthan | October 13–October 23 | 12-day holiday already in effect |
| Bihar | October 18–October 29 | Includes Chhath Puja |
| Karnataka | October 8–October 18 | Due to caste survey; additional holidays on Oct 20, 22 |
| Uttar Pradesh | October 20–October 23 | Oct 19 is a Sunday; extended weekend |
| Delhi-NCR | October 19–October 23 | May extend to October 28 due to Chhath Puja |
| West Bengal | October 20–October 23 | Includes Kali Puja, Diwali, and Bhai Dooj |
| Andhra Pradesh | October 20 only | Some schools closed on Oct 18; Oct 19 is Sunday |
CBSE and ICSE School Holiday Pattern
Generally, most schools affiliated with CBSE and ICSE boards are expected to observe the standard national holiday pattern, typically from October 18 to October 23. This comprehensive break covers all five important days of the Diwali festival. However, schools situated in states with unique regional observances or traditions might implement extended or modified schedules as per local guidelines.
Key Diwali Holiday Dates for 2025
Based on official school calendars and state announcements, the essential dates for the Diwali holidays are:
- Dhanteras – Saturday, October 18, 2025
- Chhoti Diwali (Narak Chaturdashi) – Sunday, October 19, 2025
- Diwali – Monday, October 20, 2025
- Govardhan Puja – Wednesday, October 22, 2025
- Bhai Dooj – Thursday, October 23, 2025
Important Advisory for Students and Parents
While general guidelines and board schedules provide a framework, the definitive holiday calendar can vary from one institution to another. We strongly recommend that all parents and students directly verify the exact Diwali break dates with their respective schools. Individual private and government schools have the discretion to modify or extend holidays based on their own administrative decisions or to accommodate local customs and festivals.