The schedule provided by Acharya Rasraj Mridul Ji Maharaj of Vrindavan can be referred to for a complete schedule.
On the first day of Holashtak, the Gopis of Barsana extend invitations to the Phag festival at Nandgaon on Phalgun Shukla Ashtami.
The Holi festival of Mathura, also known as Braj Holi, is famous all over the world. The 'Phag' festival in Mathura begins on the occasion of Vasant Panchami. Among the various types of Holi celebrations in Braj, the most notable ones include Lathmar Holi of Barsana, Laddoo Holi at Radharani Palace, Chhadimar Holi of Gokul, Huranga of Rawal, Holika Dahan and the colorful Holi festivities. People from all over the world visit Mathura to experience the Braj Holi celebrations, with Lathmar Holi and Laddoo Holi being particularly unique. Preparations for Holi in Braj region begin on Phulera Dooj.
On the first day of Holashtak, the Gopis of Barsana extend invitations to the Phag festival at Nandgaon on Phalgun Shukla Ashtami. That night, upon receiving the message of acceptance of the Phag invitation at the Radharani temple, Laddu Holi is celebrated. Then, on Phalgun Shukla Navami, the Lathmar Holi of Barsana takes place, during which the men of Nandgaon are welcomed with sticks and colours. If you want to participate in Mathura's renowned Holi celebrations this year, it is advisable to check the Holi calendar. For the complete schedule of Braj Holi festivities, one can refer to the program provided by Acharya Rasraj Mridul Ji Maharaj of Vrindavan.
Phulera Dooj falls on the second day of the waxing phase of the Phalgun month. On this day, Lord Shri Krishna participates in Holi celebrations with flowers.
On March 17, which falls on a Sunday, the Phag Invitational Festival is held at the Radharani Temple in Barsana, accompanied by the Laddu Holi festivities. Invitations for Nandgaon Phag Festival are sent from Ladli Ji Temple in Barsana. Later in the evening, a group from Nandgaon arrives at the Ladli Ji temple with a message accepting the invitation. As a gesture of acceptance, they are offered laddus to consume and Laddu Holi celebrations ensue.
The day after the Lathmar Holi of Barsana, the Lathmar Holi of Nandgaon is celebrated. The men of Nandgaon, known as Hurayare, visit Lathmar Barsana to take part in the Holi festivities. The Gopis decorate them with colors and receive them with sticks.
On March 20, which falls on a Wednesday, Phoolwali Holi is celebrated in Vrindavan. Additionally, Holi celebrations take place in Mathura, also known as Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi, along with the observance of Rangbhari Ekadashi. On this day, devotees worship Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati and offer Abeer and Gulal to them. This Holi celebration is also observed in Kashi.
After Phoolwali Holi in Vrindavan, Gokul Ki Chhadimar Holi is organized and celebrated in Gokul.
This year, Holika Dahan is scheduled for March 24. Holika Dahan traditionally occurs on Phalgun Purnima during an auspicious time without Bhadra. However, this time, due to Bhadra, there is no auspicious time in the night for Holika Dahan. As a result, Holika Dahan will be held late at night.
On March 25, which falls on a Monday, colorful Holi is celebrated across the country, marking the day after Holika Dahan. Rang Panchami, which falls on the fifth day of the waning phase of the Chaitra month, will be celebrated to conclude the Holi festivities.
