As the Republic Day long weekend approaches, the excitement is palpable among Indians nationwide. Many are packing their bags for a quick getaway, while others are gearing up for a three-day celebration. However, for those hoping to kick-start the long weekend with a bit of alcohol, disappointment awaits. Republic Day is designated as a dry day, meaning all alcohol shops will remain closed, and bars and restaurants will abstain from selling liquor.
Dry days can be inconvenient if not planned for in advance. Imagine if your birthday coincides with one of these days, or you decide to throw a last-minute house party only to realize you can’t purchase alcohol due to the closures. To avoid such situations, it’s advisable to be aware of the dry days in India for the year 2024, allowing you to plan and stock up accordingly.
Here is a list of dry days in 2024:
January:
Republic Day: 26 January
March:
Swami Dayanand Saraswati Jayanti: 5 March
Shivratri: 8 March
Holi: 25 March
Good Friday: 29 March
April:
Eid ul-Fitr: 10 April
Ambedkar Jayanti: 14 April
Ram Navami: 17 April
Mahavir Jayanti: 21 April
July:
Muharram and Ashadi Ekadashi: 17 July
Guru Purnima: 21 July
August:
Independence Day: 15 August
Janmashthami: 26 August
September:
Eid-e-Milad and Anant Chaturdashi: 17 September
October:
Gandhi Jayanti: 2 October
Dussehra: 12 October
Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti: 17 October
November:
Diwali: 1 November
Kartiki Ekadashi: 12 November
Guru Nanak Jayanti: 15 November
December:
Christmas: 25 December
Additional Dry Days in Mumbai:
Mumbai will experience 25 dry days in addition to Republic Day. Notable dates include 30 January for Shaheed Diwas, 1 May for Maharashtra Day, 7 September for Ganesh Chaturthi, and 8 October for Prohibition Week.
Additional Dry Days in Delhi:
In Delhi, the state government releases a list of dry days every three months. Between January and March, six dry days are observed, including 26 January for Republic Day, 24 February for Guru Ravidas’s Birthday, 6 March for Swami Dayanand Saraswati Jayanti, 8 March for Maha Shivratri, 25 March for Holi, and 29 March for Good Friday.
List of alcohol brands that you should try:
Dewar’s White Label
Dewar’s White Label, a distinguished Scotch whisky, is renowned for its rich and impeccably smooth flavor profile. A timeless addition to your home bar, it caters to both enthusiasts and novices. Whether sipped neat or used in classic cocktails, Dewar’s White Label promises an experience that transcends the ordinary.
Scottish Leader
Scottish Leader, an affordable yet exceptional blended Scotch whisky, showcases a harmonious blend of malt and grain whiskies. Its well-balanced symphony of flavors, combining robust malt notes with subtle grain undertones, appeals to those who appreciate the mellowness of Scotch.
Stoli Vodka
Stoli Vodka, a paragon of purity, is a versatile cornerstone for any home bar. With its impeccably smooth texture and clean finish, Stoli effortlessly elevates cocktail experiences, pleasing palates with a balanced profile.
Delrey Heavenly Hibiscus Gin
Delrey Heavenly Hibiscus Gin, a divine Indian craft gin, introduces a captivating infusion of hibiscus botanicals. Its refreshing and complex taste, dancing with traditional botanicals, offers a unique and delightful sensory journey.
Ginarte
Ginarte, an Italian luxury gin brand, uses Tuscan quality ingredients to produce premium gin with marked versatility. Imported by Aspri Spirits in India, Ginarte stands for unparalleled quality, offering a complex yet smooth aroma and a unique ‘Frida Kahlo Edition.’
Indri
Indri single malt, distilled in Haryana near the Himalayan foothills, uses indigenous six-row barley from Rajasthan. Matured since 2012, it is the first Indian whisky aged in ex-bourbon, ex-wine, and px-sherry casks, showcasing a remarkable and diverse flavor profile.
