Punjab Government Announces Extended Holidays in February 2026
The Punjab government has officially announced a series of public holidays in early February 2026, giving residents across the province a rare extended break. The announcement was highlighted by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, who encouraged citizens to use this long weekend for rest, family time, and positive activities.
This development has sparked strong public interest, especially because it combines national observances, a revived cultural festival, and regular weekend holidays into one continuous break.
Four-Day Long Weekend in Punjab – February 2026
Punjab residents will enjoy a four-day long weekend from Thursday, February 5, to Sunday, February 8, 2026. The holiday sequence includes national, provincial, and weekly off days.
Official Holiday Schedule
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February 5 (Thursday): Kashmir Solidarity Day – National Holiday
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February 6 (Friday): Basant Festival – Provincial Holiday
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February 7 (Saturday): Weekly Off
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February 8 (Sunday): Weekly Off
Additionally, Shab-e-Barat was observed on February 4, with a holiday announced specifically for Lahore, further extending the break for some residents.
Return of Basant After 18 Years
One of the most talked-about decisions by the Punjab government is the conditional return of Basant, a traditional spring festival that had been banned for nearly 18 years due to safety concerns.
Under strict regulations, the government has:
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Allowed the sale of kites and string from February 1 to February 8
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Permitted kite flying only in Lahore
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Limited kite flying days to February 6, 7, and 8
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Enforced safety rules to prevent accidents and misuse
The announcement led to massive crowds in Lahore’s historic kite markets, especially around Mochi Gate, where demand surged and supplies sold out quickly.
Standard Punjab Government Public Holidays
Apart from the February long weekend, the Punjab government observes several gazetted holidays every year. These holidays apply to government offices, educational institutions, and most public departments.
Annual Public Holidays in Punjab
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February 5: Kashmir Solidarity Day
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March 23: Pakistan Day
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May 1: Labour Day
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August 14: Independence Day
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Eid Milad-un-Nabi: Date varies
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November 9: Iqbal Day
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December 25: Quaid-e-Azam Day / Christmas
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December 26: Day After Christmas (mainly for Christian community)
Islamic holidays such as Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha are announced separately each year based on moon sighting.
Impact on Schools and Offices
During government holidays:
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All Punjab government offices remain closed
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Public schools and colleges follow official holiday notifications
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Private institutions may announce separate schedules
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Emergency services continue operations as usual
Parents and students are advised to follow notifications issued by the School Education Department Punjab for school-specific closures.
Why Punjab Government Holidays Matter
Punjab government holidays are not just days off. They reflect:
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National solidarity and historical importance
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Religious and cultural inclusion
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Work-life balance for public sector employees
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Economic activity, especially during festivals like Basant
The February 2026 long weekend is a clear example of how carefully planned holidays can boost public morale while preserving safety and discipline.
Is February 6, 2026, a public holiday in Punjab?
Yes, February 6, 2026, is a provincial public holiday in Punjab due to the Basant festival.
Are all cities allowed to celebrate Basant in 2026?
No, kite flying is permitted only within Lahore and under strict government regulations.
Will schools remain closed during the February long weekend?
Yes, government schools and colleges will remain closed according to the official holiday schedule.
Is Kashmir Solidarity Day a nationwide holiday?
Yes, Kashmir Solidarity Day on February 5 is observed as a national public holiday across Pakistan.
Conclusion
The Punjab government’s holiday announcements for 2026 reflect a balanced approach toward tradition, public welfare, and safety. With the cautious revival of Basant and a clearly defined public holiday calendar, residents can plan their time better while enjoying officially recognized breaks. Staying updated with Punjab government holiday notifications helps citizens make the most of these opportunities responsibly.
Punjab government holidays in February 2026 offer residents a valuable four-day break combining Kashmir Solidarity Day, the return of Basant, and regular weekend holidays. Alongside this, Punjab continues to observe its standard annual public holidays, ensuring cultural, religious, and national events are recognized throughout the year.
