Punjab Basant Holiday Announcement 2026 Overview
The Punjab Basant Holiday Announcement 2026 has been officially confirmed by the Punjab government, offering citizens a long weekend in early February. Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced that Friday, 6 February 2026, will be observed as a provincial public holiday in connection with Basant celebrations. The announcement was made from Lahore and applies across Punjab province.
This decision follows the public holiday on Kashmir Day observed on Thursday, 5 February, and is followed by the regular weekend. Together, these holidays create a four-day break, allowing people to take time off from work, enjoy cultural activities, and spend quality time with their families.
- Provincial public holiday announced for Basant
- Applies across Punjab province
- Part of a four-day long weekend
You Can Also Read: Parwaz Card Punjab Documents Required Complete List 2026
Punjab Basant Holiday Announcement 2026 and Long Weekend Details
Under the Punjab Basant Holiday Announcement 2026, residents will enjoy consecutive holidays from 5 to 8 February. Kashmir Day on 5 February is a nationwide public holiday, while 6 February has been declared a provincial holiday by the Punjab government. Saturday and Sunday complete the extended break.
The Chief Minister shared the announcement on social media, stating that the long weekend is intended to provide citizens with an opportunity to relax and recharge. The government also hopes that people will take part in cultural festivities responsibly during the holiday period.
- 5 February: Kashmir Day
- 6 February: Basant provincial holiday
- 7–8 February: Weekend holidays
You Can Also Read: Parwaz Card Punjab for Overseas Employment Support – Complete Step-by-Step Guidance
Official February 2026 Holiday Schedule in Punjab
The Punjab government has clarified the official holiday schedule to avoid confusion among citizens, students, and employees. These holidays apply to provincial government offices and institutions unless otherwise notified.
The following table outlines the confirmed holiday dates under the Punjab Basant Holiday Announcement 2026:
| Date | Day | Holiday Reason |
|---|---|---|
| 5 February 2026 | Thursday | Kashmir Day |
| 6 February 2026 | Friday | Basant Holiday |
| 7 February 2026 | Saturday | Weekend |
| 8 February 2026 | Sunday | Weekend |
This schedule ensures a continuous break across the province, especially for government departments and educational institutions.
You Can Also Read: Parwaz Card Punjab for Overseas Employment Support
Basant Festival Returns After 18 Years in Punjab
Basant, the traditional kite-flying festival of Punjab, was banned in 2007 due to serious safety concerns. At that time, multiple fatal incidents were reported, mainly caused by sharp kite strings and unsafe celebratory practices, which posed risks to both pedestrians and motorcyclists.
We hope people across Punjab take this time to relax, recharge, and make the most of the break 🤍
After nearly 18 years, the Punjab government has decided to lift the ban under controlled conditions. The revival of Basant is seen as a major cultural step, aiming to reconnect people with Punjab’s heritage while addressing past safety issues.
- Basant ban imposed in 2007
- Safety incidents led to restrictions
- Festival revival approved with regulations
You Can Also Read: Punjab Govt Denies Fake Public Holidays Notification for February 2026
Three-Day Basant Festival Plan in Lahore
According to official information, the Punjab government has approved a three-day Basant festival in Lahore starting from 6 February 2026. Lahore will serve as the central location for organized and regulated Basant-related activities, subject to official guidelines.
Authorities are coordinating with event organizers to ensure that all celebrations remain within approved areas. Cultural programs, kite-flying events, and community gatherings are expected to take place once final permissions are issued.
- Three-day Basant celebrations planned
- Lahore designated as main festival hub
- Events subject to official approval
You Can Also Read: Punjab Govt Denies Fake Public Holidays Notification
Safety Measures Under Punjab Basant Holiday Announcement 2026
The Punjab government has emphasized that Basant celebrations will be carried out under strict safety regulations. Authorities have assured that monitoring mechanisms, enforcement teams, and coordination with law enforcement agencies will be in place throughout the festival period.
Citizens have been urged to follow official instructions, avoid prohibited materials, and cooperate with authorities. The government’s priority is to prevent accidents and ensure that Basant 2026 remains safe for participants and bystanders.
- Strict kite-flying regulations
- Monitoring and enforcement teams deployed
- Public cooperation encouraged
You Can Also Read: CM Punjab Laptop Program Phase II 2026: Eligibility, Benefits, Application Process, and Deadline
Possible Five-Day Shutdown in Lahore
Media reports suggest that the Punjab government is considering a possible five-day shutdown in Lahore from 4 to 8 February 2026. This proposal includes Shab-e-Barat on 4 February, Youm-e-Kashmir on 5 February, and Basant-related holidays from 6 to 8 February.
However, officials have clarified that no final decision has been taken yet. A formal notification will be issued only after approval, and until then, the five-day shutdown remains under consideration.
- Proposed dates: 4 to 8 February 2026
- Includes religious and cultural observances
- Official confirmation still awaited
You Can Also Read: CM Punjab Laptop Program Phase II 2026: Eligibility, Benefits, Application Process
Impact on Schools and Government Offices
If the proposed extended break is approved, schools, colleges, and government offices in Lahore may remain closed during the specified period. This would allow residents to participate in cultural activities and family gatherings without administrative obligations.
At present, only the holidays from 5 to 8 February have been confirmed. Educational institutions and government departments are advised to wait for official notifications before making schedule changes.
- Schools and colleges likely to close if approved
- Government offices covered by notification
- Final decision pending for 4 February
You Can Also Read: CM Punjab Laptop Program Phase II 2026: Eligibility, Benefits
Public Reaction to Punjab Basant Holiday Announcement 2026
The Punjab Basant Holiday Announcement 2026 has generated excitement across the province. Many citizens are planning outings, family visits, and short trips to make the most of the long weekend.
People in Lahore, in particular, are preparing for kite flying and cultural events where permitted. The extended break is being viewed as a positive opportunity to relax and reconnect with cultural traditions.
- Positive public response
- Plans for family time and travel
- Interest in regulated Basant activities
You Can Also Read: CM Punjab Laptop Program Phase II 2026
FAQs – Punjab Basant Holiday Announcement 2026
Is 6 February 2026 a public holiday in Punjab?
Yes, 6 February 2026 has been declared a provincial public holiday for Basant celebrations in Punjab.
How many holidays will Punjab observe in early February 2026?
Punjab will observe four consecutive holidays from 5 to 8 February 2026, including Kashmir Day, Basant, and the weekend.
Is Basant officially allowed again in Punjab?
Yes, the Punjab government has lifted the ban and approved Basant celebrations under strict safety regulations.
Will there be a five-day shutdown in Lahore?
A five-day shutdown from 4 to 8 February is under consideration, but no official notification has been issued yet.
You Can Also Read: eBiz Punjab Portal 2026: Complete Online Business Registration Guide for Punjab