Holi 2026: Five Beers Pairing To Elevate Your Festive Feast

Holi is a celebration of colours, music, food and togetherness, unfolding from lively afternoon gatherings to relaxed evening get-togethers with friends and family. Amid playful bursts of gulal and tables filled with festive favourites, many prefer beverages that are light, refreshing and effortless to sip.

Beer fits seamlessly into the spirit of the festival. Its easy-drinking appeal makes it a go-to choice during warm Holi celebrations, pairing beautifully with both traditional delicacies and popular party snacks. For festivities that last all day, familiar beer styles that strike the right balance between refreshment and flavour are ideal.

Here are five beers that blend perfectly into Holi celebrations, along with the dishes they pair best with.

1. Woodpecker

 Light-bodied and refreshing, Woodpecker Wheat Beer is well suited for daytime Holi gatherings, especially when celebrations begin early. Its mild fruity and subtle spicy notes give it a smooth, approachable profile that doesn’t feel heavy in warm weather. This makes it a good match for lighter snacks such as fruit chaat, vegetable pakoras, dahi-based dishes and mildly spiced chaats. Served well chilled, it helps keep the palate fresh during long afternoon celebrations. The easy-drinking nature also makes it suitable for extended socializing.

 MRP: ₹180

 2. Hunter

 Hunter a strong beer with a fuller body and balanced bitterness, fits naturally into evening Holi celebrations. As the pace slows down after the day’s festivities, this style offers a more robust drinking experience without being overwhelming. It pairs comfortably with fried snacks, grilled appetisers and party finger food commonly served during get-togethers. The smooth finish helps balance richer flavours, making it suitable for post-Holi house parties. It works well when food and conversation become the focus.

 MRP: ₹150

 3. Kingfisher Ultra

 With its crisp profile and controlled bitterness, Kingfisher Ultra is often chosen for food-heavy celebrations. The beer pairs particularly well with spicy Indian snacks such as kebabs, tandoori dishes and masala-based appetisers. Its clean finish helps cut through heat and richness, making it easier to enjoy alongside bold flavours. This makes it a practical option for evening Holi parties where spicy food dominates the menu. It suits larger group gatherings where food plays a central role.

 MRP: ₹200

4. Budweiser Lager

Known for its smoothness and moderate bitterness, Budweiser Lager is a versatile choice for mixed Holi menus. It pairs easily with a wide range of foods, including samosas, burgers, sandwiches, barbecue dishes and light grills. The balanced profile ensures it doesn’t clash with different flavours on the table. This flexibility makes it suitable for larger gatherings where food options vary. It works well across both daytime and evening celebrations.

 MRP: ₹190

5. Sunny Beaches Premium Beer

Light, seasonable and low on bitterness, Sunny Beaches Premium Beer is well suited for relaxed festive moments. Its mild malty and slightly fruity notes pair nicely with lighter foods such as salads, finger snacks, mildly spiced starters and simple vegetarian dishes. The approachable flavour makes it easy to sip over longer periods without feeling heavy. This makes it a good fit for casual daytime Holi celebrations and smaller house parties. It complements occasions where the focus is on easy enjoyment rather than heavy eating.

 MRP: ₹120