Important Days in February 2026: Complete List of National and International Observances

Important days in February 2026 are specific dates recognized for their national and international importance. These observances are meant to spread awareness about social issues, health, the environment, culture, and major historical events. They help people understand global challenges and encourage positive action in society. 

For students and competitive exam aspirants, learning these dates is helpful for General Knowledge and current affairs preparation. This list presents key observances simply and clearly. Regularly revising these important days strengthens awareness, improves exam performance, and develops a better understanding of national and global events that influence the world.

List of Important Days in February 2026

Important Days in February 2026 include several national and international observances related to health, environment, culture, and social awareness. In the table below, we have provided a complete list of important days in February 2026 along with their themes and significance. These dates are useful for improving general knowledge and preparing for competitive exams and current affairs sections.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

National and International Days in February 2026

Many important days and dates in February 2026 have special historical and cultural value. Below is a simplified version of the key events and their significance:

February 1 – Surajkund Crafts Mela
The Surajkund Crafts Mela is held every year from February 1 to February 15 in Surajkund, Faridabad, Haryana. It is a major cultural fair that displays traditional handicrafts, handlooms, and fabrics from different regions. The event promotes Indian art, supports local artisans, and boosts tourism.

February 1 – Indian Coast Guard Day
Indian Coast Guard Day is observed annually on February 1 to mark the formation of the Indian Coast Guard. The day honors the brave personnel who safeguard India’s coastline and ensure maritime safety and law enforcement.

February 2 – World Wetlands Day
World Wetlands Day is observed on February 2 across the world. It marks the signing of the Ramsar Convention in 1971 in Iran. The day highlights the importance of wetlands in protecting ecosystems and conserving biodiversity. The theme for 2026 will be announced later.

February 2 to February 8 – International Development Week
International Development Week is observed from February 2 to February 8, mainly in Canada. It recognizes efforts made toward global development, poverty reduction, and humanitarian support. It also creates awareness about careers in international development.

February 4 – World Cancer Day
World Cancer Day is marked every year on February 4 by the World Health Organization. It aims to spread awareness about cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. The theme for 2026 will be declared soon.

February 4 – National Day of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka celebrates its National Day on February 4 to remember its independence from British rule in 1948.

February 6 – International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation
This day is observed on February 6 to spread awareness about the harmful effects of female genital mutilation and to promote efforts to end this practice. The 2026 theme will be announced later.

February 6 to February 14 – Kala Ghoda Festival
The Kala Ghoda Festival takes place in Mumbai from February 6 to February 14 each year. It showcases art, literature, music, dance, and cultural traditions of the city.

February 12 – Darwin Day
Darwin Day is celebrated on February 12 to honor Charles Darwin, who was born on this day in 1809. It recognizes his contributions to the theory of evolution and the biological sciences.

February 12 – Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday
Abraham Lincoln’s birthday is observed on February 12 in memory of the former US President and his role in strengthening democracy and unity.

February 13 – World Radio Day
World Radio Day is celebrated on February 13 to highlight the importance of radio as a powerful medium of communication, especially in remote and developing regions.

February 13 – Sarojini Naidu Birth Anniversary
Sarojini Naidu’s birth anniversary is observed on February 13. Born in 1879, she was known as the “Nightingale of India” and was the first Indian woman President of the Indian National Congress and the first woman Governor of an Indian state.

February 14 – Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is celebrated on February 14 in honor of Saint Valentine, a Roman priest associated with love and compassion.

February 18 to February 27 – Taj Mahotsav
Taj Mahotsav is organized every year in Agra from February 18 to February 27. The festival celebrates India’s cultural heritage, art, music, dance, and handicrafts, with the Taj Mahal as its backdrop.

February 20 – Arunachal Pradesh Foundation Day
Arunachal Pradesh Foundation Day is observed on February 20. The state was formed in 1987 and was earlier known as the North-East Frontier Agency (NEFA).

February 20 – World Day of Social Justice
World Day of Social Justice is marked on February 20 to promote equality, employment, and social inclusion. It focuses on reducing poverty, discrimination, and unemployment worldwide.

February 21 – International Mother Language Day
International Mother Language Day is celebrated on February 21 to promote linguistic diversity and multilingual education. UNESCO declared this observance in 1999.

February 22 – World Scout Day
World Scout Day is celebrated on February 22 to mark the birthday of Lord Baden-Powell, the founder of the Scout Movement. Scouts across the world take part in various service activities.

February 24 – Central Excise Day
Central Excise Day is observed on February 24 in India to recognize the contributions of Central Excise officers in tax administration and public service.

February 28 – National Science Day
National Science Day is celebrated on February 28 to honor the discovery of the Raman Effect by Sir C. V. Raman. He received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930 for this achievement.

Check Out UPSC CSE Books

Visit PW Store

Holidays in February 2026 List

Here is a list of major holidays and observances in February 2026 (India + important global ones). Actual public holidays may vary by state and institution.

February 2026 Events and Observances

• 1 February (Sunday) – Guru Ravidas Jayanti
• 4 February (Wednesday) – Shab-e-Barat (evening/night)
• 14 February (Saturday) – Valentine’s Day (observance)
• 15 February (Sunday) – Maha Shivratri
• 17 February (Tuesday) – Chinese New Year (global observance)
• 20 February (Friday) – Arunachal Pradesh Foundation Day
• 28 February (Saturday) – National Science Day (India)

Note: Government holiday status depends on state and central holiday calendars. Some dates are cultural or religious observances rather than gazetted holidays.

Ready to boost your UPSC preparation? Join PW’s UPSC online courses today!

DOWNLOAD PDF