Lahore Basant 2027 set for 10-day celebrations - check the dates

Lahore Basant festival gets new schedule

Lahore is set to host a 10-day Basant festival next year under a schedule approved by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. The celebrations will begin on January 29 and continue until February 7, 2027.

The festival will have a one-day break on February 5 to observe Kashmir Day. The latest schedule is different from an earlier plan announced by the chief minister in August.

Why the festival is being extended

The chief minister directed government departments to start preparations early for the longer celebration. She described the event as a way to promote Lahore’s cultural identity and Punjab’s historic traditions.

“Ten-day Basant will promote Punjab’s cultural colours and Lahore’s centuries-old traditions across the world,” CM Maryam was quoted as saying.

Safety arrangements to be strengthened

The Punjab government has directed authorities to make better arrangements for public safety and convenience during the extended festival. Officials have also been asked to ensure that the celebrations do not compromise the safety of residents and visitors.

The chief minister urged citizens to celebrate responsibly and follow the safety rules. She said the success of the 10-day event would depend on responsible behaviour and strict compliance with safety regulations.

Basant returns after long ban

Lahore celebrated Basant earlier this year from February 6 to 8 after an 18-year break. The festival had been banned in 2007 following deaths and serious injuries linked to sharp kite strings and incidents of celebratory gunfire.

The Punjab government had also introduced new rules for kite flying ahead of the next Basant festival. The latest announcement now sets a longer schedule for the 2027 celebrations.

Analysis

The latest decision means Lahore will have a much longer Basant celebration in 2027 than the three-day event held earlier this year. The February 5 break will allow the city to observe Kashmir Day during the festival period.

Safety remains a major focus because the festival was previously banned after deaths and injuries linked to kite flying. The government’s preparations and public compliance with the rules will be important during the extended celebrations.

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