Beating Retreat Ceremony 2026: Date, Time, Tickets, Traffic Advisory For Delhi

The Beating Retreat ceremony is a tradition that formally concludes the Republic Day festivities in India. It is a musical spectacle featuring the bands of the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, Delhi Police, and Central Armed Police Forces. Presided over by the President of India, the event symbolizes discipline, unity, and the ceremonial end of the national celebrations. This year’s theme commemorates the 150th anniversary of “Vande Mataram,” with stirring Indian compositions highlighting self-reliance and cultural pride. 

Date and Timing
The ceremony is scheduled for January 29, 2026, at Vijay Chowk, New Delhi. The event begins in the evening, with the main performances taking place between 4:30 PM and 7:00 PM, though traffic restrictions start much earlier in the day.

Tickets and Entry
Entry to the Beating Retreat ceremony is ticketed, with passes available through official government portals and designated counters. Tickets are priced affordably to encourage public participation, and seating is arranged to accommodate dignitaries, officials, and citizens. It is advisable to book tickets in advance due to high demand, as the event is one of the most popular spectacles of Republic Day week. 

Traffic Restrictions Around Vijay Chowk and Kartavya Path
Delhi Traffic Police has issued a detailed advisory for January 29. Vijay Chowk will remain closed to general traffic from 2:00 PM to 9:30 PM, with diversions in place around Kartavya Path, Rafi Marg, Raisina Road, Krishna Menon Marg, Dara Shikoh Road, and areas near Sunehri Masjid. Commuters are advised to avoid central Delhi during these hours and instead use alternative routes such as Ring Road, Ridge Road, Aurobindo Marg, Madarsa T-Point, and Safdarjung Road. 

Ceremony Highlights
The evening will feature synchronized performances by military bands, including renditions of patriotic tunes and classical Indian compositions. The climax of the ceremony traditionally includes the lowering of the national flag and the retreat of troops, accompanied by the haunting notes of “Abide With Me” and other iconic pieces. This year’s program emphasizes Indian-origin tunes, reinforcing cultural identity while maintaining the grandeur of military tradition. 

Advice for Attendees and Residents
Those attending should plan to arrive early due to security checks and restricted access. Carrying valid identification is mandatory, and large bags or prohibited items are not allowed. Residents of central Delhi should anticipate delays and plan travel accordingly, while visitors should use public transport where possible to avoid congestion.