October often feels like a month of traditions and seasonal change. In the Northern Hemisphere, autumn is in full swing, with cooler weather, colorful foliage, and preparations for winter holidays. In the Southern Hemisphere, it’s mid-spring, marked by outdoor festivals, sports, and blooming landscapes.
In 2026, October begins on Thursday, October 1, and ends on Saturday, October 31, giving the month 31 days and five full weekends. This structure makes it especially flexible for balancing work deadlines, family time, and seasonal events.
Several significant dates highlight October 2026. Columbus Day in the United States will be observed on Monday, October 12, coinciding with Canadian Thanksgiving. Diwali, the Festival of Lights, begins on Sunday, October 18, and Halloween falls on Saturday, October 31, making the month end with one of the most widely celebrated holidays worldwide.
With its mix of cultural observances and seasonal activities, the October 2026 calendar is just as useful for planning festive gatherings and travel as it is for keeping day-to-day routines on track.