Punjab Government Holidays
Punjab Government Holidays Punjab government has officially issued a fresh notification announcing public holidays in connection with the revival of Basant celebrations. This decision has created strong public interest, especially in Lahore and other major cities where Basant has long been part of cultural memory.
After many years of uncertainty, the formal notification has now cleared confusion among citizens, government employees, and institutions. People were already discussing Basant’s return, but this announcement has given it legal and administrative backing.
You Can Also Read: MCB Bank Suzuki Financing Get Car on Easy Installment
Punjab Government Announces New Public Holidays
The provincial government has declared two additional public holidays for February 2026. These holidays are directly linked to Basant celebrations and aim to facilitate public participation and administrative planning.
From my experience covering government notifications, such announcements are usually made after internal approvals. This shows that the Punjab government wants to manage both public enthusiasm and official operations smoothly during the festival period.
- Two new public holidays for Basant
- Province-wide implementation
- Applicable to all provincial government institutions
You Can Also Read: Ramzan Nigehban Package 2026 Punjab Government
Official Notification Issued on February 3, 2026
The notification was officially issued on February 3, 2026, by the Services and General Administration Department (Welfare Wing). This department handles official holidays and administrative orders in Punjab, making the notification legally binding.
In government matters, the issuing department matters a lot. Since this notification comes from a central administrative authority, there is no room for misinterpretation by offices or departments across the province.
- Issued date: February 3, 2026
- Issuing authority: S&GAD Welfare Wing
- Status: Official and enforceable
You Can Also Read: BISP Launches Free SIM Facility for Women to Receive
February 6 and 7 Declared Holidays Across Punjab
According to the notification, Friday and Saturday, February 6 and 7, 2026, will be observed as public holidays throughout Punjab. These dates have been selected specifically for Basant-related activities.
In past years, lack of clarity often caused confusion among offices and the public. This time, the dates are clearly defined, allowing citizens to plan ahead without uncertainty.
Highlights of the Basant holidays:
- Friday, February 6, 2026
- Saturday, February 7, 2026
- Applicable across all districts of Punjab
Who Will Observe These Public Holidays
These holidays will be observed by all provincial government offices, departments, and institutions working under the Punjab government. This includes administrative offices, attached departments, and government-controlled bodies.
However, it is common practice that essential services may operate under special arrangements. While the notification focuses on general closures, departments usually issue internal instructions if any staff is required on duty.
Covered entities include:
- Provincial secretariats
- Government departments
- Autonomous bodies under Punjab government
Public Awareness Through Media Channels
The notification clearly directs authorities to give wide publicity to the decision. This includes national and regional newspapers in both English and Urdu, as well as electronic media platforms.
From a journalist’s point of view, this step is important. Many people rely on newspapers and TV for official updates, especially those who do not actively use social media.
- National English newspapers
- Regional Urdu newspapers
- Television and electronic media
You Can Also Read: Negahban Program Online Check Get Free Rashan
February 5 Holiday for Kashmir Day
Separately from Basant, February 5, 2026, will be observed as a public holiday in Punjab on account of Kashmir Day. This day is marked every year to express solidarity with the people of Indian-occupied Kashmir.
Kashmir Day is a fixed national observance, and government offices traditionally remain closed. Its inclusion before the Basant holidays has resulted in an extended closure period.
Key information about Kashmir Day:
- Date: February 5, 2026
- Observed annually
- Official public holiday in Punjab
Three Consecutive Days of Office Closure in Punjab
With Kashmir Day on February 5 and Basant holidays on February 6 and 7, government offices in Punjab will remain closed for three consecutive days. This is significant for both employees and the general public.
In my experience, such extended closures usually lead to increased public movement before and after the holidays, especially for official work. Citizens are advised to manage their government-related tasks accordingly.
Summary of closure period:
- February 5: Kashmir Day
- February 6–7: Basant holidays
- Total closure: Three days
You Can Also Read: Parwaaz Card Selection Process After Registration
Basant Celebrations Return After 18 Years
Earlier, the Punjab government announced that Basant celebrations would be allowed in Lahore after an 18-year gap. This decision attracted nationwide attention due to the festival’s cultural importance.
For many residents, Basant is not just kite flying; it is a symbol of Lahore’s identity. The government’s move signals a controlled revival rather than an unrestricted event.
Key background points:
- 18-year gap in celebrations
- Lahore at the center of festivities
- Cultural revival under government oversight
Notification Confirms Holidays Linked to Basant
The newly issued notification formally connects public holidays with Basant celebrations. This removes ambiguity and ensures that all departments follow a single, clear directive.
By issuing this notification, the Punjab government has transformed earlier announcements into official policy. For citizens, this means certainty, clarity, and the ability to plan ahead.
You Can Also Read: CM Solar Panel Scheme 2026 Phase 2 Easy Way
Public Holidays Schedule
| Date | Day | Reason | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 5, 2026 | Thursday | Kashmir Day | Public Holiday |
| February 6, 2026 | Friday | Basant Celebration | Public Holiday |
| February 7, 2026 | Saturday | Basant Celebration | Public Holiday |
Who Will Be Affected by the Holidays
| Category | Status During Holidays |
|---|---|
| Provincial Govt Offices | Closed |
| Govt Departments | Closed |
| Attached Institutions | Closed |
| Essential Services | As per special orders |
Final Words
The Punjab government’s Basant holiday notification brings clarity at a time when public interest is high. With three consecutive public holidays and the formal revival of Basant, February 2026 is set to be culturally and administratively significant for Punjab.
For ordinary citizens, the message is simple: plan your work in advance, enjoy the holidays responsibly, and stay informed through official updates.
You Can Also Read: 9999 Punjab Ramadan Relief Plan Explained 10000