{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"NewsArticle","mainEntityOfPage":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https://www.timecybermedia.com/Pages/india/Delhi / Civic Affairs/delhi-liquor-shops-open-this-holi-after-it-was-removed-from-dry-day-list"},"headline":"Delhi Liquor Shops Open This Holi After It Was Removed From 'Dry Day' List","description":"Liquor shops in Delhi will remain open this Holi after the festival was removed from the official ‘dry day’ list. The decision marks a shift from previous years, allowing retail sale of alcohol during the celebrations.","image":["https://res.cloudinary.com/donttjaap/image/upload/v1772536274/primetime_news/xkevd6f7kzvy05y348ez.jpg"],"datePublished":"2026-03-03T11:11:15.107Z","dateModified":"2026-03-03T11:11:15.107Z","author":{"@type":"Person","name":"Riddhima Vashisht","url":"https://www.timecybermedia.com"},"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Time Cyber Media","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https://www.timecybermedia.com/logo.png"}},"articleSection":"india","articleBody":"

Delhi Liquor Shops Open This Holi After It Was Removed From ‘Dry Day’ List

In a notable policy shift, liquor shops across Delhi will remain open during the upcoming Holi festival after the government removed the occasion from the official ‘dry day’ list.

Change From Previous Years

Holi had traditionally been observed as a dry day in the national capital, meaning the sale of alcohol at retail outlets was prohibited. However, under the revised excise notification, the festival is no longer included in the list of days when liquor sales must be suspended.

What This Means for Consumers

With Holi falling on a weekday this year, licensed liquor vends, departmental stores and hotels holding valid permits will be allowed to sell alcohol during regular business hours, unless otherwise specified by local authorities.

Official ‘Dry Day’ List Still in Effect for Other Dates

Authorities clarified that other designated dry days — including national holidays and certain religious observances — will continue to be enforced as per the Delhi Excise Department’s annual notification.

Public Response

The move has sparked mixed reactions. While some residents welcomed the decision, saying it aligns with evolving social norms, others expressed concerns about public order and safety during festival celebrations.

Officials have said law enforcement agencies will remain on alert to prevent drunk driving and maintain public safety during Holi festivities.