Holi 2026 will be celebrated on March 4. The festival of colour is marked by celebrating with friends and family, applying colours on each other as a part of the festive spirit. Another quintessential aspect of the festival of colours is the food. As families gear up for Holi 2026, kitchens across India will once again be filled with the aroma of roasted khoya, desi ghee and savoury selections. From sweet treats to savoury bites, here are the traditional dishes you must prepare to make your celebration complete.

Gujiya: The quintessential Holi sweet treat

No Holi is complete without crispy, golden gujiyas. These deep-fried dumplings are stuffed with a rich mixture of khoya, nuts, coconut and sugar. The flaky outer crust and sweet filling make gujiya the undisputed festive favourite, especially in North India.

Malpua: The perfect dessert

Thandai: The traditional Holi beverage

While sweets take centre stage, a refreshing glass of thandai is essential to beat the rising spring heat. Made with milk, dry fruits, saffron and aromatic spices, this chilled drink is synonymous with Holi celebrations. In some regions, it is also infused with bhang as part of traditional festivities. Thandai, just like gujiya, is a traditional recipe that is available only during Holi.

Dahi Bhalla

Namak pare, shakar pare

These crunchy snacks are easy to prepare and store, making them ideal for serving guests. Namak pare are savoury and crisp, while shakar pare are coated in sugar syrup for a sweet crunch. Both pair perfectly with tea during Holi get-togethers.

Puran Poli

In Maharashtra and parts of South India, puran poli is a festive staple. This sweet flatbread stuffed with chana dal and jaggery filling is wholesome, flavourful and deeply rooted in tradition.