The Punjab government has officially declared February 5, 2026, as a public holiday across the province to observe Kashmir Solidarity Day, according to a notification issued by the Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD).
Under the notification, government and semi-government offices, educational institutions, and most public sector organizations across Punjab will remain closed on February 5 to mark solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). Essential services will remain operational.
The announcement comes as part of a broader sequence of holidays that will result in a four-day break from February 5 to 8, offering residents an extended long weekend.
Four-Day Holiday from Feb 5–8 Confirmed
Following Kashmir Solidarity Day on February 5, the Punjab government has also declared February 6 and 7 (Friday and Saturday) as public holidays across the province. These will be followed by the regular Sunday weekend, completing a four-day provincial break.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, in a message shared earlier, encouraged citizens to make positive use of the extended holidays, calling it an opportunity to rest, spend time with family, and participate responsibly in cultural activities.
Also Read: Punjab announces public holiday for Shab e Barat
Basant Returns to Lahore Under Strict Regulations
The long weekend coincides with the carefully regulated return of Basant in Lahore, scheduled for February 6, 7, and 8, 2026, after nearly two decades of prohibition.
Basant celebrations will be strictly limited to Lahore district only, following the enforcement of the Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance 2025. Kite flying in any other district of Punjab remains completely banned.
Authorities have introduced unprecedented safety measures to prevent past tragedies that led to the festival’s ban in 2007. The use, sale, or display of nylon, plastic, chemical-coated, glass-coated strings, metallic wire, and spools has been strictly prohibited.
Only approved cotton string, wound in round pinna shapes and carrying QR codes for traceability, will be permitted. Loud music, aerial firing, rooftop overcrowding, and unsafe structures are also banned under the official code of conduct.
District administrations, police, and enforcement agencies have been directed to ensure strict compliance, with authorities empowered to cancel permissions immediately in case of violations.
Officials say the controlled revival aims to balance cultural revival with public safety, while the extended holiday period is expected to boost local economic activity and tourism within Lahore.
