Dry Days in October 2025: Dates, Rules, and Party Planning Guide

What Are Dry Days in India?

If you typically have a drink on weekends, go to house parties, or drink in a bar, you’ve likely heard the term “dry day” used. In India, “dry day” refers to a specific day when the sale of alcohol is not allowed at shops, bars and restaurants, and hotels.

Usually dry days are observed for national holidays, major religious festivals or for elections. Generally, dry days are imposed to promote tradition, safety and to deter activities that might arise from alcohol during sensitive times.            

Important to note: Private consumption at home is usually allowed, unless you’re in prohibition states like Gujarat, Bihar, Nagaland, Mizoram, or Lakshadweep where alcohol is banned all year round.                                     

Why Are Dry Days Declared in India?

There are three main reasons why governments enforce dry days:

• Respecting cultural and religious sentiments – Observances, such as Gandhi Jayanti and Dussehra, are conducted without the use of alcohol.
  
  
• Disruption to law and order – To prevent disruptions during large group functions, rallies, and special occasions.
  
  
• Election-related restrictions – Voting days and counting days, in particular, have at times temporary liquor bans.

Since dry days are declared by state excise departments, the exact list varies by location and year.

Dry Days in October 2025 (India-Wide and State-Specific)

Here are the confirmed and expected dry days across major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore this October:

Key Highlight: This year, Gandhi Jayanti and Dussehra fall on the same day (2nd October 2025), which means a strict nationwide alcohol ban—no shops, no bars, no restaurants serving alcohol.

Also Read: Best Party Drinking Games with Friends: Fun, Easy & Hilarious Ideas

Are Bars, Restaurants, and Hotels Closed on Dry Days?

• Bars, pubs, and restaurants cannot legally serve alcohol on declared dry days.
  
  
• Liquor stores and home delivery services also remain closed.
  
  
• Private drinking at home is still legal in most states (unless you’re in a prohibition zone).
  
  

So if you’re planning a Diwali house party in Delhi, make sure your bar is stocked before October 20.

Tips for Party Planners and Drinkers in October 2025

1. Plan ahead by purchasing for a day early - Go buy your alcohol ahead of festivals and national holidays that's scheduled for the next day.
   
   
2. Check local excise notice - States like Maharashtra and Delhi sometimes add extra dry days on short notice.
   
   
3. Do not serve alcohol at events whatsoever on dry days - it is also illegal to serve alcohol if the wedding, party, or corporate event date falls under a proclaimed dry day.
   
   
4. If you are a traveler - Don't expect alcohol to be at hotel bars if you fly into Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore on those days.

State-Specific Nuances to Watch Out For

• Delhi – The excise department has periodic updates to their annual dry day list; Diwali (October 20th) will be recognized as a dry day here.
  
  
• Maharashtra (Mumbai, Pune) – Also sometimes has an extra day for this Prohibition week; Check notices to see if they will announce it.
  
  
• Karnataka (Bangalore) – It nearly always follows the national list; however, they may also add dry days for local festivals.
  
  
• Election related dry days – Watch for local body elections in your state based on your general dry days; these dry days can be surprises.

FAQs About Dry Days in India

1. Can I buy alcohol on a dry day?
   No. Legal sales at shops, restaurants, and bars are prohibited.
2. Can I drink at home on a dry day?
   Yes, in most states. But if you live in a prohibition state, it’s not allowed at all.
3. Do all states follow the same dry day list?
   No. There are regional differences—Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore may have different rules. Always check your city’s excise department notice.

Final Word: Stay Smart, Stay Prepared

In October 2025, the dry days are Gandhi Jayanti (2nd), Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti (7th), and Diwali (20th). However, there may be additional dry days (or fewer dry days) based on the state you are in. For millennial and Gen Z party planners, the (golden) rule is simple: plan ahead, stock up, and don'tbe caught off guard! Few things wreck a festive weekend faster than realizing, whilst planning an epic weekend with family and friends, the liquor shop is closed!

Also Read: Why Domestic Flights in India Don’t Serve Alcohol: Rules, Safety, and Costs Explained