Big warning for TASMAC shops, bars, hotels and party lovers in Tamil Nadu! In 2026, several Dry Days will see complete ban on alcohol sale and serving across the state, including Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai and Salem. Nationwide bans on Republic Day (January 26), Independence Day (August 15) and Gandhi Jayanti (October 2) remain strict. Tamil Nadu adds restrictions for Pongal festival days like Thai Pongal (January 15), Thiruvalluvar Day (January 16) and Uzhavar Thirunal (January 17).
Violators face heavy fines, license cancellation or legal action under Tamil Nadu excise laws. Stock up in advance – private consumption allowed, but no new sales!
Know Complete Details of Dry Days in Tamil Nadu 2026
Dry Days enforced by TASMAC (Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation) and Excise Department to respect national events, harvest festivals and cultural observances.
Nationwide Dry Days:
- Republic Day: January 26, 2026 (Monday)
- Independence Day: August 15, 2026 (Saturday)
- Gandhi Jayanti: October 2, 2026 (Friday)
Tamil Nadu-Specific Major Dry Days:
- Pongal / Thai Pongal: January 15, 2026 (Thursday)
- Thiruvalluvar Day: January 16, 2026 (Friday)
- Uzhavar Thirunal: January 17, 2026 (Saturday)
- Good Friday: April 3, 2026 (Friday)
- Tamil New Year / Dr. Ambedkar Jayanti: April 14, 2026 (Tuesday)
- Deepavali: November 8, 2026 (Sunday)
Other common dry days include Eid festivals, Muharram and Christmas if declared.
Election dry days extra if polls in your area (48 hours before voting + counting day).
Month-Wise Dry Days in Tamil Nadu 2026
- January: 15 (Thai Pongal), 16 (Thiruvalluvar Day), 17 (Uzhavar Thirunal), 26 (Republic Day)
- April: 3 (Good Friday), 14 (Tamil New Year)
- August: 15 (Independence Day)
- October: 2 (Gandhi Jayanti)
- November: 8 (Deepavali)
Lunar dates (Eid, Muharram) may shift by 1-2 days – check official TASMAC notifications.
Special Rules in Tamil Nadu Cities
- Chennai/Coimbatore: Strict enforcement; TASMAC shops, bars and clubs closed fully – even attached bars.
- Other districts: Local variations during Pongal celebrations.
- Exceptions: Rare for premium hotels; mostly full ban on key days.
- No Home Delivery: Banned on dry days.
How It Affects You – Avoid Fines & Plan Parties
- Bars/Hotels/Restaurants: No serving – revenue impact during Pongal rush.
- TASMAC Shops: Closed whole day.
- Buyers: Stock before; personal drinking ok.
- Events/Parties: Ideal during Pongal holidays but no alcohol sales.
- Tip: Follow TASMAC website or local news for updates.
- Edge Cases: Multi-day Pongal ban (15-17 Jan); election sudden bans.
These restrictions honour harvest thanks, national leaders and festivals – promote safety and tradition.
Planning Pongal celebrations or parties in 2026? Which dry day impacts you most? Comment below and share your views!
Stay updated with us for all latest excise rules, festivals and restrictions in Tamil Nadu 2026.