Punjab Government Holidays Notification Overview
Punjab government holidays have been officially announced for early February 2026, giving residents a four-day break from February 5 to February 8. The extended holidays combine national observances, a provincial cultural holiday, and regular weekend off days, creating a continuous break across Punjab.
This announcement has drawn public attention not only because of the long weekend but also due to the cautious revival of Basant. The Punjab government holidays schedule reflects a balance between administrative planning, cultural recognition, and public convenience.
- Four consecutive holidays across Punjab
- Combination of national, provincial, and weekend holidays
- Applies to government offices and public institutions
You Can Also Read: Punjab Basant Holiday Announcement 2026: CM Punjab Confirms Long Weekend and Basant Festival Revival
Official Notification on Punjab Government Holidays
The Services and General Administration Department issued a formal notification confirming that February 6 and 7, 2026, will be observed as public holidays in Punjab. These holidays apply province-wide and are part of the officially approved Punjab government holidays calendar.
The notification ensures clarity for departments, schools, and public-sector organizations. By formally declaring these dates, the government has provided advance notice, allowing citizens to plan travel and personal activities during the extended break.
- Notification issued by the provincial department
- Holidays applicable across Punjab
- Covers public sector institutions
You Can Also Read: Punjab Basant Holiday Announcement 2026
Kashmir Day in Punjab Government Holidays
February 5 will be observed as Kashmir Day, marking the first day of the holiday sequence. Kashmir Day is a nationally recognized occasion observed every year to express solidarity with the people of Kashmir.
Including Kashmir Day in the Punjab government holidays lineup adds national significance to the extended break. It also sets the stage for the provincial and cultural holidays that follow in the same week.
- National public holiday
- Observed throughout Punjab
- Marks the start of the four-day break
You Can Also Read: Punjab Basant Holiday Announcement 2026: Basant Festival Returns to Lahore
Basant Declared Provincial Holiday by Punjab Government
February 6 has been declared a provincial holiday to mark Basant, the traditional spring festival. Basant has historically symbolized renewal and the arrival of spring, with kite flying being its most well-known feature.
By adding Basant to the Punjab government holidays list, the provincial administration has acknowledged its cultural importance. At the same time, the holiday has been paired with strict regulations to avoid the safety issues that led to its ban in the past.
- Provincial holiday status
- Cultural recognition by the government
- Part of February holiday sequence
You Can Also Read: Punjab Basant Holiday Announcement 2026
Weekend Holidays Complete the Four-Day Break
Along with Kashmir Day and the Basant holiday, the regular weekend holidays complete the four-day break. Friday and Saturday have been declared public holidays, followed by the usual Sunday off.
This alignment of holidays ensures continuity without disrupting administrative workflows. The Punjab government holidays arrangement allows residents to enjoy uninterrupted time off without additional leave.
- Friday and Saturday declared public holidays
- Sunday included as regular weekend
- Continuous four-day break achieved
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CM Maryam Nawaz’s Message on Punjab Government Holidays
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz encouraged residents to use the extended holidays positively. In her public statement, she described the long weekend as an opportunity for rest, reflection, and rejuvenation.
Her message highlighted how the Punjab government holidays sequence was designed thoughtfully. The emphasis was on relaxation, family time, and responsible enjoyment during the break.
- Encouragement for positive use of holidays
- Focus on rest and well-being
- Message addressed to all residents
Return of Basant After Years of Ban in Punjab
Basant is returning after years of restrictions due to safety concerns that emerged in the early 2000s. Dangerous kite-flying practices previously resulted in accidents, leading to a complete ban in 2007.
The revival during Punjab government holidays marks a cautious cultural comeback. Authorities have emphasized that the return is symbolic and tightly regulated to avoid repeating past tragedies.
- Long history of Basant in Punjab
- Ban imposed due to safety issues
- Controlled revival under government oversight
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Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance 2025 and New Regulations
The revival of Basant follows the Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance 2025, which introduced strict controls over kite flying. The ordinance regulates kite size, string material, and public behavior during the festival.
Under the new law, Basant celebrations during Punjab government holidays are permitted only under defined conditions. The goal is to ensure traceability, accountability, and public safety.
- Legal framework for Basant revival
- Restrictions on materials and practices
- Emphasis on safety and regulation
You Can Also Read: Basant 2026 Lahore: DC Issues Official Notification, Kite Sales Surge Under Strict Safety Rules
Kite Flying Limited to Lahore During Basant Holidays
According to official notifications, kite flying will be allowed only within Lahore’s district limits. The permission applies strictly to designated days, with enforcement remaining strict in other parts of Punjab.
This localized permission ensures better monitoring during Punjab government holidays. Authorities aim to control crowds and enforce safety rules effectively within a limited area.
- Allowed only within Lahore district
- Restricted to specific days
- Strict enforcement outside Lahore
You Can Also Read: Basant 2026 Lahore: DC Issues Official Notification
Safety Measures for Basant Celebrations
The new rules impose a complete ban on nylon, plastic, glass-coated, and metallic strings. Only cotton string wound into round pinna forms is permitted, each marked with a QR code for identification.
These safety measures are central to the Punjab government holidays plan involving Basant. The government has emphasized that public safety remains the top priority throughout the celebrations.
- Ban on hazardous kite strings
- QR-coded cotton string requirement
- Focus on traceability and safety
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Punjab Government Holidays February 2026 Overview Table
| Date | Day | Occasion |
|---|---|---|
| February 5 | Thursday | Kashmir Day |
| February 6 | Friday | Basant Provincial Holiday |
| February 7 | Saturday | Public Holiday |
| February 8 | Sunday | Weekend Holiday |
Key Rules for Basant Kite Flying 2026
| Regulation Area | Allowed | Prohibited |
|---|---|---|
| String Material | Cotton with QR code | Nylon, plastic, glass-coated |
| Location | Lahore district only | Other districts |
| Duration | Designated days | Unapproved timings |
FAQs
What are the Punjab government holidays in February 2026?
Punjab government holidays include Kashmir Day, Basant provincial holiday, and weekend public holidays from February 5 to 8.
Is Basant officially allowed in Punjab in 2026?
Yes, Basant is allowed under strict regulations introduced through the Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance 2025.
Where is kite flying permitted during Basant holidays?
Kite flying is permitted only within Lahore district and only on designated days.
Why was Basant banned previously in Punjab?
Basant was banned due to safety concerns caused by dangerous kite strings and related accidents.
What safety measures are enforced for Basant 2026?
Only QR-coded cotton strings are allowed, while all hazardous materials are strictly prohibited.
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