Basant Holiday Announcement 2026
The Punjab Basant Holiday Announcement 2026 marks the official return of the historic Basant festival in Lahore after nearly two decades. Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif confirmed that Basant will be celebrated under a safe, regulated, and closely monitored framework, allowing the centuries-old spring festival to come back with full cultural spirit. The announcement highlights the government’s commitment to reviving Punjab’s traditions while prioritizing public safety.
This decision has been welcomed across the province as Basant represents color, renewal, and joy linked with the arrival of spring. The festival’s return signals a cultural revival for Lahore, where the skies are expected to come alive once again with regulated kite flying and organized festivities.
- Historic Basant revival approved after 18 years
- Celebration rooted in spring and cultural heritage
- Safety-focused framework introduced by the Punjab government
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Punjab Basant Holiday Announcement 2026 and Long Weekend Details
Under the Punjab Basant Holiday Announcement 2026, residents will enjoy a four-day long weekend in early February. Kashmir Day will be observed on Thursday, 5 February, followed by the provincial Basant holiday on Friday, 6 February, and then the regular Saturday and Sunday weekend. This sequence creates consecutive holidays across Punjab.
The Chief Minister shared that the extended break is meant to give people time to relax, reconnect with family, and enjoy cultural celebrations responsibly. The long weekend also supports tourism and local economic activity during the festival period.
- 5 February: Kashmir Day
- 6 February: Basant provincial holiday
- 7–8 February: Weekend off
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Basant Festival Returns After 18 Years in Lahore
Basant was banned in Punjab in 2007 due to rising safety concerns, including fatal accidents caused by sharp kite strings and unsafe celebratory practices. Over the years, public demand for its return remained strong, making the government’s decision a landmark moment in Punjab’s cultural history.
After nearly 18 years, the Punjab government has lifted the ban and approved a regulated revival. The return of Basant reflects lessons learned from the past, with new rules designed to prevent accidents and ensure public safety during celebrations.
- Ban imposed in 2007 due to safety risks
- Public demand for revival remained strong
- Regulated return approved in 2026
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Three-Day Basant Festival Plan in Lahore 2026
The Punjab government has approved a three-day Basant festival in Lahore from 6 to 8 February 2026. Lahore has been selected as the pilot city where all safety protocols and standard operating procedures will be tested before considering expansion to other cities.
Organized kite flying, cultural programs, and community events will take place within approved zones only. Authorities have made it clear that celebrations outside the notified dates or without compliance will not be allowed.
- Festival dates: 6 to 8 February 2026
- Lahore selected as pilot project city
- Events limited to approved areas
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Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance 2025 and Safety Framework
The revival of Basant is governed by the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Ordinance 2025. This ordinance ensures that all activities related to Basant remain completely safe, regulated, and monitored through strict legal and administrative controls.
Under this framework, enforcement agencies have been empowered to act against violations. The government has emphasized that public safety will not be compromised, and strict penalties will be imposed for non-compliance.
- Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance 2025 enforced
- Legal framework for safe celebrations
- Zero tolerance for violations
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Safety Measures Under Punjab Basant Holiday Announcement 2026
Extensive safety arrangements have been announced for Basant 2026. A Safe City control room has been established in Lahore, where all street activities are being monitored through drone surveillance and live cameras.
In addition, monitoring and implementation camps have been set up across high-risk, medium-risk, and low-risk areas. Thousands of police and traffic personnel have been deployed to manage crowds and prevent accidents.
- Drone surveillance and control rooms
- Monitoring camps across Lahore
- Large-scale police and traffic deployment
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Rules for Kite Flying During Basant 2026
Strict rules have been introduced for kite flying to prevent past tragedies. Only cotton string is permitted, while metallic or chemical-coated strings are completely banned. Kites exceeding approved sizes are also prohibited.
The government has further banned kites carrying images of people, religious content, political symbols, or national flags. Violations can result in severe punishment, including heavy fines and long-term imprisonment.
- Only cotton string allowed
- Metallic and sharp strings banned
- Strict penalties for violations
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Registration for Basant Activities Through eBiz Punjab
All businesses involved in Basant-related activities must register through the official eBiz Punjab system. This requirement ensures that sellers, manufacturers, and organizers comply with safety and material regulations.
Registration is valid for one year and can be renewed. The process helps authorities track approved vendors and prevent the sale of non-permissible materials during the festival.
- Mandatory registration via eBiz Punjab
- One-year renewable registration
- Compliance with safety standards
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Categories of Basant Registrations
The Punjab government has defined specific registration categories for Basant activities. Retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers, and kite flying associations must register under their respective categories to operate legally.
This classification helps regulate the supply chain and ensures that only approved materials are produced and sold during Basant 2026.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Seller | Retailers selling kites and strings |
| Trader | Wholesalers and distributors |
| Manufacturer | Approved kite and string producers |
| KFA | Kite flying clubs and organizers |
Weather Forecast for Basant 2026 in Lahore
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast mainly dry weather with clear skies for 6 and 7 February 2026. Slight cloudiness is expected on 8 February, with no significant impact on celebrations.
Light westerly and north-westerly winds at 10 to 15 kilometers per hour are expected, which are considered suitable for safe kite flying. Participants have been advised to exercise caution near roads and electric lines.
- Dry and clear weather expected
- Suitable wind conditions for kite flying
- Safety advisory issued by PMD
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Economic and Cultural Impact of Basant Revival
The revival of Basant is expected to generate significant economic activity across Punjab, particularly in Lahore. Hotels, guest houses, and local businesses have already seen increased demand due to festival tourism.
Beyond economics, Basant represents a revival of cultural identity. The festival promotes Punjab’s heritage, language, and traditions, strengthening community bonds and cultural pride.
- Boost to tourism and hospitality
- Increased local business activity
- Cultural identity and heritage revival
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CM Punjab Message on Culture and Identity
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif emphasized that Basant is an integral part of Punjab’s cultural identity. She encouraged citizens to take pride in Punjabi language and traditions while celebrating responsibly.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the importance of passing cultural values to future generations. According to her, preserving local culture is essential for maintaining Punjab’s historical and social identity.
- Emphasis on Punjabi culture and language
- Cultural pride encouraged
- Responsible celebration stressed
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Punjab Basant Holiday Announcement 2026 Final Outlook
The Punjab Basant Holiday Announcement 2026 reflects a balanced approach between cultural revival and public safety. By introducing strict regulations and monitoring systems, the government aims to ensure that Basant is celebrated without repeating past mistakes.
With a long weekend and a controlled festival environment, Basant 2026 is expected to present a positive image of Punjab and Pakistan to the world while preserving a cherished tradition.
- Cultural revival with safety focus
- Positive image for Punjab
- Carefully regulated celebrations
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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.
How long will the Basant festival last in Lahore?
The Basant festival will be held for three days, from 6 to 8 February 2026.
Is kite flying allowed during Basant 2026?
Yes, kite flying is allowed under strict rules using only approved materials.
Can businesses sell kite-flying materials without registration?
No, all Basant-related businesses must register through the eBiz Punjab system.
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