School Holidays in August 2025: Schools likely to remain closed on these dates; check list of special days this month

Indian Express

2 days ago

List of School Holidays in August 2025: The month of August marks the onset of festive relief for students across India. Unlike the previous months of June and July, when classes resume from a long summer break, August witnesses several festivals, giving students a short pause from their curriculum and studies.
From Raksha Bandhan to Independence Day, Janmashtami to Ganesh Chaturthi, the month gives students a blend of tradition, as well as the chance to recharge and go back into their regular chores in full swing. Here's a list of holidays students can expect in their schools in August:
Note that the dates for various festivals listed here might vary slightly depending on regional calendars and local customs. Schools in different states may observe these festivals on different days as per local practice.
Raksha Bandhan – August 9
Raksha Bandhan, celebrated on August 9, marks the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters tie a protective thread or 'rakhi' on their brothers' wrists, and in return, brothers pledge to protect them. It is a public holiday in many states and typically observed in schools, colleges, and government offices.
Jhulan Purnima – August 13–17
Jhulan Purnima, observed over several days from August 13 to 17, celebrates the divine love of Lord Krishna and Radha through the symbolic swing festival. Temples and homes are decorated with floral swings, and devotional songs are sung in reverence. In many schools, the day is marked with cultural programmes, especially in regions like West Bengal, Odisha, and parts of North India.
Independence Day – August 15
India's Independence Day, observed on August 15, commemorates the country's freedom from British rule in 1947. The day is marked by flag-hoisting ceremonies, patriotic events in schools, and government declarations. It is a national holiday across all states.
Janmashtami – August 16
Falling on August 16, Janmashtami celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna. The festival is observed with devotional songs, reenactments of Krishna's life, and midnight prayers. Many schools remain closed on this day, especially in states where the festival is widely celebrated.
Onam – August 26–28
Onam, celebrated from August 26 to 28 in 2025, is Kerala's most prominent harvest festival. It commemorates the return of the mythical King Mahabali and is marked by floral decorations (Pookalam), traditional feasts (Onasadya), games, and boat races. While it is a public holiday in Kerala, schools in other regions may observe it with themed assemblies and cultural performances.
Ganesh Chaturthi – August 27
Ganesh Chaturthi, on August 27, marks the birth of Lord Ganesha. Celebrated with processions, rituals, and the installation of Ganesh idols, the day is a public holiday in several states. Schools and colleges often declare a holiday, particularly in Maharashtra and southern states.
Here is a list of days that are not typically observed with suspension of classes, but are instead commemorated through various activities in schools and colleges. On these occasions, students often participate in competitions and extracurricular programmes —
Note that these days of celebration is generally aimed at understanding the significance of the day and marking it with meaningful remembrance.