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May 2026 School Holidays: Full list, summer vacations, heatwave alerts & state-wise closure dates in India
ET Online | April 30, 2026 8:19 PM CST

Synopsis

India is experiencing an intense heatwave, forcing many states to declare early summer vacations. Temperatures are soaring, making daily commutes difficult and posing health risks. Schools in Delhi are set to close from May 11 to June 30, while Odisha has already begun its summer break from April 27.

May 2026 School Holidays

The intense heatwave and hot winds have made it increasingly challenging to step outside. As temperatures climb toward the end of April, even short exposure to the sun can cause dizziness or heatstroke. Under such harsh conditions, commuting to school has become a serious concern for both students and parents.

In many regions across India, the heat has become so severe that walking barefoot on the ground, even for a moment, feels unbearable. Owing to these extreme weather conditions, several states have already declared summer vacations.

School Holidays in May 2026: Key Dates

Besides the usual weekly offs, schools and colleges will remain closed on certain important occasions in May.


Complete Holiday List for May

The major holidays in May include:
  • May 1 – Labour Day
  • May 27 – Eid al-Adha (Bakrid)
In addition to these, holidays will also be observed due to:
  • Second and fourth Saturdays
  • Sundays on May 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31

Summer Vacations in Schools

Due to the ongoing extreme heat, most schools are expected to remain closed for summer vacations throughout May.

Delhi Summer Holidays

The Delhi has been placed under a yellow alert by the India Meteorological Department due to worsening heatwave conditions. Authorities have cautioned that temperatures could soon touch around 44°C, making the situation more intense in the coming days. Schools in Delhi are scheduled to shut for summer vacations from May 11 to June 30, 2026, and will reopen on July 1. Despite the extreme heat, no decision has been taken so far to advance the closure dates.

Odisha Summer School Holidays

Mohan Charan Majhi announced on Friday that schools will begin their summer vacation from April 27 in view of the prevailing heatwave conditions in Odisha.

Rajasthan Summer School Holidays

According to several media reports, the holidays will start from May 17 to June 20, 2026.


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