Punjab Gets Long Weekend as Maryam Nawaz Declares Basant Holiday 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced a long weekend for the province, including a provincial holiday for Basant 2026. The break will run from Monday, February 5 to Wednesday, February 7, giving residents time to celebrate, rest, and spend quality time with family. This initiative is part of the government’s efforts to balance work and leisure while promoting cultural festivities.

Feature	Details
Occasion	Basant 2026
Start Date	Monday, February 5, 2026
End Date	Wednesday, February 7, 2026
Total Days Off	3 Days (plus weekend)
Affected Areas	Punjab Province
Schools & Colleges	Closed
Government Offices	Closed
Cultural Activities	Kite-flying, performances, community events

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

Long Weekend Schedule for Punjab

The extended weekend begins with Kashmir Day on Monday, February 5, followed by Basant holiday on Tuesday, February 6, and then the regular weekend on Wednesday.

Residents have five consecutive days off when combined with the weekend.
Schools, colleges, and government offices in Lahore will remain closed during this period.
Families are encouraged to plan rest, recreation, and participation in cultural activities.

This schedule allows citizens to enjoy both religious and cultural observances without work pressure.

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Cultural Significance of Basant

Basant is a traditional festival in Lahore celebrated with kite-flying and other cultural events. The long weekend encourages residents to participate safely and enjoy the city’s rich heritage.

Kite-flying competitions and performances are expected across the city.
Community events and music programs will mark the celebrations.
The festival reflects Punjab’s cultural diversity and local traditions.

Authorities have also advised safety measures, especially during kite-flying, as large crowds can pose risks.

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Government Advisory for Citizens

The Punjab government has issued guidelines to ensure a safe and organized celebration:

Follow traffic rules near major event locations.
Be cautious while flying kites, especially in crowded areas.
Attend cultural programs and community events responsibly.
Plan travel in advance to avoid peak hour congestion.

These steps aim to balance celebration with public safety.

Activities During the Long Weekend

Event organizers and the government have lined up several activities for residents to enjoy:

Kite-flying competitions for children and adults
Music and dance performances across Lahore
Cultural exhibitions highlighting traditional crafts
Community gatherings and fairs for families

The long weekend provides an opportunity for citizens to relax, socialize, and enjoy Lahore’s cultural festivities without work or school interruptions.

Conclusion

The Basant long weekend 2026 declared by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz offers Punjab residents a chance to rest, celebrate, and participate in cultural activities safely. Schools, colleges, and government offices will remain closed from February 5 to 7, making it one of the most enjoyable breaks for families in Lahore. Citizens are encouraged to follow safety measures, attend cultural events responsibly, and make the most of this vibrant festival.

FAQs

Q: When is the Basant holiday in Punjab 2026?
A: The Basant holiday is on Tuesday, February 6, 2026, as part of the extended long weekend from February 5–7.

Q: Which institutions will be closed during the long weekend?
A: All schools, colleges, and government offices in Punjab will remain closed.

Q: Can private businesses follow the government holiday schedule?
A: Private businesses can decide individually but are encouraged to allow employees to enjoy the extended weekend.

Q: What safety measures are suggested during Basant celebrations?
A: Citizens should follow traffic rules, avoid crowded areas while flying kites, and attend events responsibly.