May 2026 Festival Calendar: Key Dates, Adhik Maas Period, and Shani Jayanti Details
May 2026 Festival Calendar: Key Dates, Adhik Maas Period, and Shani Jayanti Details
May marks an important phase in the Hindu calendar, bringing together a mix of spiritually significant days and widely observed festivals. As the fifth month of 2026 approaches, it carries special importance due to the presence of Adhik Maas along with several major observances. According to the Panchang, this period begins on the full moon (Purnima) of the Shukla Paksha in Vaishakh and concludes on the Chaturdashi of the Adhik month in Jyeshtha.
This month is set to include notable occasions such as Buddha Purnima, Shani Jayanti, Padmini Ekadashi, and other sacred fasting days. Each date holds its own religious value, offering devotees multiple opportunities for worship, fasting, and reflection.
A significant highlight of 2026 is the beginning of Adhik Maas from the Jyeshtha month. This extra lunar month, also known as Purushottam Maas, is considered highly auspicious for worshipping Lord Vishnu. The Adhik Maas period will be observed from May 17 to June 15, making this time especially important for spiritual practices and religious observances.
Important Festivals and Dates in May 2026:
- May 1 – Buddha Purnima, Maharashtra Day
- May 2 – Narad Jayanti
- May 5 – Angarki Sankashti Chaturthi
- May 9 – Kalashtami
- May 13 – Apara Ekadashi
- May 14 – Guru Pradosh Vrat
- May 16 – Darsha Amavasya, Shani Jayanti
- May 17 – Moon sighting and beginning of Adhik Jyeshtha month
- May 19 – Vinayak Chaturthi
- May 27 – Kamala Ekadashi
- May 30 – Beginning of Adhik Purnima fast
- May 31 – Conclusion of Adhik Purnima fast
Shani Jayanti 2026: Date and Puja Timing
Shani Jayanti is observed each year on the Amavasya of the Jyeshtha month. In 2026, it falls on Saturday, May 16, and is also referred to as Shani Amavasya. This day is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shani and is considered highly significant for those seeking relief from planetary influences.
A special evening ritual is performed on this occasion. Devotees can conduct the worship between 7:05 PM and 8:23 PM on May 16, which is considered an auspicious time window.
