Below is a narrative calendar of major religious holidays in 2026 observed in the United States, grouped by religious tradition. Dates are given as they are commonly observed in the US. For traditions that follow lunar calendars, observances may vary slightly by community practice.
Christianity
The Christian calendar in 2026 begins with Epiphany on January 6, commemorating the revelation of Christ to the Gentiles. Many Eastern Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas on January 7, following the Julian calendar. The season of Lent begins with Ash Wednesday on February 18, marking a period of repentance and preparation. Holy Week unfolds in early April, with Maundy Thursday on April 2, Good Friday on April 3, and Easter Sunday on April 5, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus. The season continues with Ascension Day on May 14, recalling Christ’s ascension into heaven, and culminates in Pentecost on May 24, celebrating the coming of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Church.
Judaism
Jewish observances in 2026 begin with Tu BiShvat on February 1 to 2, known as the New Year for Trees. Purim follows on March 2 to 3, celebrating deliverance as told in the Book of Esther. Passover is observed from April 1 through April 9, commemorating the Exodus from Egypt. Yom HaShoah on April 13 to 14 honors the memory of the Holocaust. Shavuot is observed from May 21 to 23, marking the giving of the Torah at Sinai. The High Holy Days occur in the fall, with Rosh Hashanah from September 22 to 24, followed by Yom Kippur on October 1 to 2, the Day of Atonement. Sukkot is celebrated from October 6 to 13, recalling the wilderness journey, and the year concludes with Hanukkah from December 14 to 22, the Festival of Lights. Jewish holidays customarily begin at sundown on the preceding evening.
Islam
In 2026, Ramadan is expected to begin around February 17 and conclude around March 19, marking a month of fasting, prayer, and charity. The end of Ramadan is celebrated with Eid al Fitr around March 20, a joyful festival emphasizing gratitude and community. Eid al Adha is expected around May 26 to 27, commemorating Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice and coinciding with the season of pilgrimage to Mecca. Ashura, observed around June 25 to 26, holds particular significance for many Muslims as a day of remembrance and reflection. Islamic dates are based on lunar sighting and may vary slightly by location.
Hinduism
The Hindu religious year in 2026 includes Makar Sankranti on January 14, celebrating the sun’s northward journey and the harvest season. Maha Shivaratri is observed on February 16, honoring Lord Shiva. Holi on March 4 is widely known as the Festival of Colors, celebrating renewal and the triumph of good over evil. Rama Navami on March 26 commemorates the birth of Lord Rama. Later in the year, Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is observed around November 8 to 9, celebrating light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.
Sikhism
Sikh communities observe the birthday of Guru Gobind Singh on January 20 in 2026, honoring the tenth Sikh Guru. Vaisakhi on April 14 commemorates the founding of the Khalsa and is one of the most significant Sikh celebrations. Guru Nanak Gurpurab, expected around November 5, celebrates the birth of Sikhism’s founder, Guru Nanak.
Buddhism
Buddhist observances in 2026 include Nirvana Day on February 15, marking the Buddha’s passing into final enlightenment. Vesak, also known as Buddha Day, is observed on May 1, commemorating the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death in many traditions.
Baháʼí Faith
The Baháʼí calendar begins with Naw Ruz on March 20 to 21, the Baháʼí New Year. The festival of Ridvan is observed from April 20 through May 1, with particular holy days on April 20, April 29, and May 1. The Declaration of the Bab is observed on May 22 to 23, followed by the Ascension of Baha’u’llah on May 28, both marking foundational moments in Baháʼí history.
Other Religious and Cultural Observances
Several additional observances are widely recognized in the United States. Lunar New Year is celebrated around February 17 by many East Asian religious and cultural communities. Nowruz on March 20 marks the Persian New Year and is observed by Zoroastrians and others. Kwanzaa is celebrated from December 26 through January 1, honoring African heritage and values in a cultural and spiritual context.