Govt of Punjab Announces Four-Day Holiday from Feb 5 to Feb 8, 2026 (Official Notification)

The Punjab government has officially announced a four-day public holiday across the province from February 5 to February 8, 2026. This decision gives people in Punjab a long break at the beginning of February. The notification was issued by the Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD) and approved by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.

According to the official notification, Friday (February 6) and Saturday (February 7) will be observed as public holidays in Punjab. When these holidays are combined with Kashmir Day on February 5 and the regular Sunday weekend on February 8, it results in a continuous four-day holiday for government offices, schools, colleges, and many private institutions.

This announcement has brought relief to employees, students, and families who are looking forward to rest and quality time during the extended break.

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Official Holiday Schedule Explained

The holiday sequence starts on Thursday, February 5, which is observed as Kashmir Day, a nationwide public holiday across Pakistan. This is followed by Friday, February 6, which has been declared a provincial holiday in Punjab due to Basant celebrations. Saturday, February 7, is also included as a public holiday, and the break ends with Sunday, February 8, which is the regular weekly holiday.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif also shared this sequence in a public message, encouraging people to use the long weekend in a positive way. She emphasized that such breaks help people relax, refresh their minds, and spend time with family.

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Basant Festival Returns After Many Years

One of the main reasons behind the extended holiday is the return of Basant in Lahore. After nearly 18 years, the Punjab government has decided to allow Basant celebrations again, but under very strict safety rules.

Basant is a traditional festival that marks the arrival of spring and was once widely celebrated in Lahore with kite flying and rooftop gatherings. However, due to serious accidents caused by chemical-coated and metal kite strings, the festival was banned in 2007.

The government has now allowed Basant under the Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance 2025, which strictly controls how the festival will be celebrated to avoid past tragedies.

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Kite Flying Allowed Only in Lahore

According to official orders, kite flying will be allowed only within Lahore district and only for specific days. All other cities in Punjab will remain under a complete ban. Law enforcement agencies have been instructed to strictly implement these rules.

The use of nylon, plastic, glass-coated, chemical-coated strings, metal wires, and large spools is completely prohibited. Only simple cotton string is allowed, and it must meet government-approved standards. Each approved string spool will carry a QR code so authorities can track legal manufacturing and sales.

Strict Safety and Enforcement Measures

The Punjab government has clearly stated that public safety is the top priority during the holidays. Police, district administration, and special monitoring teams will remain active throughout the Basant period.

Anyone found violating the kite-flying laws can face heavy fines and imprisonment. Officials believe that strong enforcement, along with public cooperation, will help ensure that Basant is celebrated safely and responsibly.

Conclusion

The four-day holiday from February 5 to February 8, 2026, offers people across Punjab a valuable chance to relax and recharge. With Kashmir Day, Basant-related holidays, and the weekend combined, the government hopes citizens will enjoy the long break responsibly. Authorities have urged the public to follow all safety rules so that celebrations remain peaceful and secure for everyone.