Bali and Indonesian Public Holidays 2026

Like most Aussie holidaymakers, you’ll be thinking about your 2026 Bali holiday and want to know when the Balinese and Indonesian public holidays are in 2026.

In some cases, these dates are super important, especially in Bali when the airport on the island can close down during days like Nyepi.

Let’s look at each holiday and how it might affect your plans.

New Year’s Day (January 1st, 2026)

Most businesses are closed on this day,, so expect banks, public services, cafes, and restaurants to be closed. However, supermarkets like Bintang and Pepito are open. Of course, smaller Balinese warungs and shops may also be open. If you want to go to the gym, check your gym timetables to see if they are open. Beach club openings will vary per club but will most likely remain open.

The Ascension of the Prophet Muhammad (January 15th, 2026)

It is a huge Islamic holiday, and celebrations are held in Bali and the rest of Indonesia. Because Bali is a Hindu island, there will be celebrations, but most things will stay open.

Chinese New Year (Feb 17th, 2026)

The Chinese New Year is party time in Bali and a holiday for many Indonesian Chinese families who flock to Bali to celebrate. Expect Bali villas to be popular,and restaurants will be packed as the island bulges with more tourists. Also, read Hip Chinese Restaurants in Seminyak.

Nyepi (Day of Silence – March 19th, 2026)

Nyepi is the most significant public holiday and everything—and I mean everything—is closed, including the airport. No planes are arriving or leaving. You must stay in your holiday villa and cannot open the door for 24 hours. Nyepi is a Hindu day of silence and reflection, so you must respect this, and venturing outside is strictly a no-no. There are even local police patrols known as Pecalang who patrol the area to ensure no one is outside on their scooter or walking.

Tips for surviving Nyepi stress free and with happy kids:

Shop for groceries, food, and supplies the day before
If you plan a trip to Bali, note the date (especially if you arrive late the night before). Many streets are chaotic with the Ogo-Ogo parade and are most likely blocked.
Be prepared with water in the villa, food, games and entertainment for the kids.
Keep noise, music, and loud chatter to a minimum, and remember that all external and bright lights in the villa must be turned off at night – get your villa manager to arrange this.
Don’t think for one-minute you can leave the villa and get away with it; you’ll get busted and might end up in jail.

Hari Raya Idul Fitri (Eid al-Fitr – March 19th, 2026)

This prominent and happy Islamic holiday marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. For nearly all Muslims, it’s time to head back home to see their families, which means lots of airport traffic. In Bali, expect some shops to be closed, but there won’t be too much of an interruption to your holiday itinerary in Bali.

Good Friday (April 3rd, 2026)

Loads of Aussies head over to Bali for the Easter break. Not much is affected in Bali, and most shops, cafes, and entertainment remain open. Expect a price spike as demand for hotel and villa accommodation and tourist facilities surges.

Easter Sunday (April 5th, 2026)

Same as Good Friday, where most things in Bali are open.

Galungan (June 17th, 2026)

This is a massive Hindu holiday where the Balinese celebrate good over evil with bright and colourful street banners and poles carved out of bamboo. Many shops will be closed, but Western restaurants, cafes, and clubs are open. The island seems more vibrant and colourful and has a festive holiday vibe.

Kuningan (June 27th, 2026)

The second part of the Galungan celebrations includes ceremonies and offerings. Most Western-style shops and restaurants are open for business.

Waisak Day (May 12th, Monday)

The celebration of Buddha’s birthday is observed primarily by Bali’s Buddhist community. Not a biggie, and for most holidaymakers, this day will go unnoticed as everything will be open.

Ascension Day of Jesus Christ (May 29th, Thursday)

Yet another Christian holiday often celebrated with family gatherings. This usually contributes to a long weekend for many, and many Javanese will come to Bali for a quick Bali getaway. Long weekends always increase traffic and busy queues at cafes and restaurants, so be prepared. Book your accommodation well in advance if you intend to stay in Bali during this long weekend.

Pancasila Day (June 1st, Sunday)

This is a national holiday commemorating Indonesia’s founding principles. Most shops will be closed, but most Western businesses catering to tourists remain open.

Eid al-Adha (June 6th & 7th, Friday & Saturday)

A major Islamic festival commemorates Prophet Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son. This won’t affect tourist activities in Bali too much, but for Muslim shops and businesses, they might close.

Indonesian Independence Day (August 17th, Sunday)

Expect to see massive flags and national pride, especially on the main island of Java, where the government holds national ceremonies and patriotic parties. In Bali, all government, banks and civil services are shut. But the good news is that most of the things holidaymakers need are open.

Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (September 4th, Thursday)

This Islamic holiday is a time of reverence and reflection. In Bali, this will not have much of an impact except that Muslim-owned businesses (generally catering to locals), such as local markets, stalls, and warungs, will be closed.

Christmas Eve (December 24th, 2026)

Traffic can be a nightmare as everyone rushes to shopping malls to grab their last-minute gifts. Many restaurants will be holding Christmas events, dinners, and parties, so be aware of what’s happening in all these venues.

Christmas Day (December 25th, 2026)

Christmas Day is a popular holiday in Bali with the Christian community and ex-pats, including holidaymakers, having their Chrissy lunch. Large beach clubs and popular restaurants will be throwing special Christmas lunch events, so plan ahead and book early.

New Year’s Eve (December 31st, 2026)

It’s party time, especially at all the bars, clubs, and restaurants. People have been waiting all year for this to let their hair down and bring in the new year. Traffic is chaotic everywhere (especially in Canggu and Seminyak), and driving will be an absolute nightmare. Get a scooter to venues wherever possible to avoid lengthy delays and stress. Head to Double Six, Seminyak and Canggu Beach for those who want to watch fireworks.

Long weekends in Indonesia in 2026… ex-pats and locals are going to love these mini-breaks

Expats and Bali residents, we’re here to help you make the most of your Annual Leave and have more fun times in Bali. Early planning is key. By taking off January 2nd and 3rd, you can enjoy a six-day break. For a five-day weekend, consider January 28th. And for the ultimate holiday, plan your leave for April 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, giving you a luxurious nine-day break for the Idul Fitri holidays! Don’t forget to book May 2nd and 30th for two delightful four-day weekends, and September 4th for another extended break. And for a truly festive season, consider taking off multiple days around Christmas and New Year. Get in early, plan ahead and make sure you boss gives you this time off. If you work for yourself, just go for it. Rent a scooter hire a car and explore this fab island! If your coming from Oz its a quick flight so plan for a quick 3 or 4 day hit.

Frequently Asked Questions about Public Holidays in Bali

What’s the most important public holiday in Bali?

Nyepi (Day of Silence) is the biggest and most important public holiday in Bali and has the most impact on your holiday. Nothing is open, and travel is severely restricted except for medical emergencies.

How many public holidays will there be in Bali/Indonesia in 2026?

There are roughly 16 national public holidays in Indonesia in 2026.

What are the most holy holidays in Bali?

Nyepi, Galungan, and Kuningan are the holiest holidays on the Balinese calendar, so watch out for them, as they can affect your holiday.

How can I book a holiday in Bali without any fuss or hassle?

Let our villa experts help you at Bali Villa Escapes for a seamless booking process. With over 925 villas throughout the island, we are sure we have the best Bali villas.

About the author

Steven is a true Bali enthusiast and passionate surfer who knows the island like the back of his hand. When he’s not crafting articles or capturing videos of the latest restaurants, hidden gems, and must-see spots, you’ll find him riding the waves at Echo Beach or zipping around Seminyak, Berawa, and Canggu on his scooter. As part of the Bali Villa Escapes marketing team, Steven has been living in and out of Bali for over 15 years, soaking up the culture, beaches, and vibrant local scene. He loves sharing insider tips and favourite experiences to help visitors make the most of their Bali adventures.