Long Weekends 2026: How Many Extended Breaks Will You Get Next Year? Check the Full Month-Wise List

The year 2026 is shaping up to be a great one for people who love short trips, staycations, and well-planned breaks from work. With several public holidays falling close to weekends, the new year offers multiple opportunities to enjoy long weekends without using too many leave days. Whether you are planning family time, a quick vacation, or simply some well-earned rest, smart planning can help you make the most of these extended breaks.

Some long weekends in 2026 naturally offer three consecutive holidays, while others can easily turn into four- or five-day breaks by taking one or two additional leaves. Early planning can help you save leave days and get more downtime throughout the year. Below is a detailed, month-wise list of long weekends in 2026 to help you plan ahead.

January 2026: A Perfect Start to the Year

January 24 (Saturday) to January 26 (Monday)
Total holidays: 3 days
Occasion: Republic Day (Monday)

The first long weekend of the year arrives in January itself. With Republic Day falling on a Monday, you get a neat three-day break. It is ideal for a short trip, a family gathering, or simply unwinding after the New Year rush.

February–March 2026: One of the Longest Breaks

February 28 (Saturday) to March 4 (Wednesday)
Total holidays: Up to 5 days
Occasion: Holi (Wednesday)

This is one of the most attractive long weekend opportunities of the year. By taking leave on Monday and Tuesday, you can enjoy a five-day break. This period is perfect for travel, as the weather is still pleasant in many regions.

April 2026: Short and Refreshing Break

April 3 (Friday) to April 5 (Sunday)
Total holidays: 3 days
Occasion: Good Friday

Good Friday falling on a Friday creates a classic three-day weekend. This is a great option for a quick getaway or spending quality time with family.

May 2026: Early Summer Long Weekend

May 1 (Friday) to May 3 (Sunday)
Total holidays: 3 days
Occasion: May Day / Buddha Purnima

May brings the first summer long weekend of the year. While it may be warm, it is still a good time for a short break or a relaxed staycation before peak summer travel begins.

August 2026: Independence Day Opportunity

August 15 (Saturday) to August 16 (Sunday)
Total holidays: 2–3 days
Occasion: Independence Day (Saturday)

Independence Day falls on a Saturday in 2026. If you take leave on Friday, August 14, you can easily turn this into a three-day break, making it a decent mid-year pause.

October 2026: Multiple Long Weekend Options

October 2 (Friday) to October 4 (Sunday)
Total holidays: 3 days
Occasion: Gandhi Jayanti (Friday)

This is one of the easiest long weekends to enjoy, as it does not require taking any extra leave. A perfect option for a short trip or rest.

October 17 (Saturday) to October 21 (Wednesday)
Total holidays: Up to 5 days
Occasion: Dussehra

October offers another excellent chance for a longer break. By taking leave on Monday and Tuesday, you can plan a five-day vacation, making it ideal for travel during the festive season.

November 2026: Festive Long Weekend

November 7 (Saturday) to November 9 (Monday)
Total holidays: 3 days
Occasion: Diwali

Diwali brings a three-day break, offering a nice balance of festive celebrations and rest. It is a great time to be with family or take a short festive trip.

December 2026: Year-End Break

December 25 (Friday) to December 27 (Sunday)
Total holidays: 3 days
Occasion: Christmas

The final long weekend of 2026 arrives at the end of December. Christmas on a Friday gives a comfortable three-day break, perfect for a year-end trip or simply relaxing before the New Year.

Planning Tip for 2026

The long weekends in 2026 offer excellent opportunities for travel and rest, but demand for flights, trains, and hotels is usually high during these dates. Booking tickets and accommodation in advance can help save money and avoid last-minute hassles. Even if travel is not on your agenda, these breaks can be used to recharge, pursue hobbies, or spend uninterrupted time with loved ones.

With thoughtful planning, 2026 can be a year where you enjoy more breaks while using fewer leave days.