Punjab Announces Four-Day Holiday from Feb 5 to Feb 8, 2026 – Official Notification Issued

The Punjab government has officially announced a four-day holiday across the province from February 5 to February 8, 2026, giving residents a long break at the start of February. The decision was confirmed through an official notification issued by the Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD) and approved by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.

According to the notification, Friday, February 6, and Saturday, February 7, 2026, will be observed as public holidays throughout Punjab. When these holidays are combined with Kashmir Day on February 5 and the regular Sunday weekend on February 8, it creates a continuous four-day break for government offices, schools, and many private institutions.

Official Holiday Sequence Explained

The holiday sequence begins on Thursday, February 5, which will be observed as Kashmir Day, a nationwide public holiday across Pakistan. This is followed by February 6, declared a provincial holiday in Punjab in connection with Basant celebrations. The break continues with Saturday and Sunday, completing the four-day holiday period.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif highlighted this sequence in a public message, encouraging people to use the long weekend for rest, family time, and positive activities. She said such breaks are important for mental well-being and work-life balance.

Basant Returns Under Strict Rules

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

Basant, which celebrates the arrival of spring, was once a major cultural festival in Lahore, known for colorful kites, rooftops gatherings, and festive energy. However, due to deadly accidents caused by chemical and metal kite strings, the festival was banned in 2007.

This year’s revival is being carried out under the Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance 2025, which places tight controls on every aspect of the festival to prevent accidents and loss of life.

Kite Flying Limited to Lahore Only

Under 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 strict ban. Authorities have been directed to enforce the law firmly outside Lahore.

Dangerous materials such as nylon, plastic, glass-coated, chemical-coated strings, metal wires, and large spools are completely banned. Only simple cotton string is permitted, and it must meet government-approved standards. Each approved string spool will carry a QR code to ensure traceability and prevent illegal manufacturing.

Focus on Safety and Enforcement

The Punjab government has made it clear that safety is the top priority. Police, district administration, and special monitoring teams will remain active during the holidays. Any violation of the kite-flying rules can result in heavy fines and imprisonment.

Officials believe that with strict enforcement and public cooperation, Basant can be celebrated responsibly without repeating past tragedies.

Final Words

The four-day holiday from February 5 to February 8, 2026, offers people across Punjab a rare opportunity to relax and recharge. With Kashmir Day, Basant-related holidays, and the weekend combined, the government hopes citizens will enjoy the break responsibly while respecting the law.