If you are planning to buy alcohol this month, it is important to know the upcoming dry days. During these days, liquor shops, wine stores, bars, pubs, and restaurants are not allowed to sell or serve alcohol.
While Independence Day is a nationwide dry day, some states also declare additional dry days during religious festivals and other special occasions.
Why Are Dry Days Declared?
Dry days are announced by the government to maintain law and order during national holidays, religious festivals, and elections.
The central government declares dry days on occasions such as Independence Day, Republic Day, and Gandhi Jayanti.
State governments can also announce extra dry days based on local festivals, religious events, or election rules.
Dry Days in August 2026
August 15 (Saturday) – Independence Day
This is a nationwide dry day. Liquor shops, wine stores, bars, pubs, and restaurants will not be allowed to sell or serve alcohol.
August 25/26 (Tuesday/Wednesday) – Eid-e-Milad and Thiruvonam
Some states and cities may observe a dry day on the occasion of Eid-e-Milad (Milad-un-Nabi), depending on local government notifications.
In Kerala, alcohol sales will remain prohibited during Thiruvonam, as per the State Excise Department’s notification.
Dry Days in September 2026
September 4 – Janmashtami
Some states and cities may declare a dry day based on local excise department notifications.
September 14 – Ganesh Chaturthi
Dry day will be observed only in Maharashtra and Karnataka.
September 25 – Anant Chaturdashi
Dry day will be observed only in Maharashtra, where the sale and serving of alcohol will remain prohibited.
