The Punjab government has announced public holidays on February 6 and 7, 2026, across the province to mark the Basant festival being celebrated in Lahore. The decision was confirmed through an official notification issued by the Services and General Administration Department, which stated that both Friday and Saturday will be observed as holidays, allowing residents to enjoy an extended weekend.
According to the notification, the holiday plan has been arranged to provide maximum convenience to the public. In addition to the two announced days, Kashmir Day will be observed on February 5, followed by Sunday, February 8, which is already a weekly holiday. As a result, people across Punjab will benefit from four continuous days off, creating a long break for families, workers, and students alike.
During this period, all educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and universities, will remain closed. Government offices and public departments will also suspend their routine operations on February 6 and 7. Authorities said the move is aimed at reducing official activity and allowing citizens to fully participate in cultural and recreational events linked to the Basant festivities.
The government emphasized that Kashmir Day on February 5 will be observed as usual, after which the two additional holidays will follow. This schedule is expected to ease travel and encourage people to take part in celebrations without work or academic commitments.
Officials believe the extended holiday will provide a much-needed break for the public while promoting traditional festivities and tourism in Lahore. The announcement has been welcomed by many residents who plan to spend time with family and join Basant-related events across the province.
Read more: Lahore Bans Basant 2026 at Multiple Places
