The Government of Pakistan has officially announced the public and optional holidays for 2026, providing citizens, banks, and minority communities with a clear schedule of national and religious observances. The notification was issued by the Cabinet Secretariat (Cabinet Division).

Major Public Holidays

The official notification lists key public holidays, with Islamic festival dates subject to moon sightings. Highlights include:

Kashmir Day: February 5 (Thursday)

Pakistan Day: March 23 (Monday)

Eid-ul-Fitr: March 21–23 (Saturday–Monday)

Labour Day: May 1 (Friday)

Youm-e-Takbeer: May 28 (Thursday)

Eid-ul-Azha: May 27–29 (Wednesday–Friday)

Ashura (9th & 10th Moharram): June 24–25 (Wednesday & Thursday)

Independence Day: August 14 (Friday)

Eid Milad-un-Nabi: August 25 (Tuesday)

Allama Iqbal Day: November 9 (Monday)

Quaid-e-Azam Day / Christmas: December 25 (Friday)

Day After Christmas: December 26 (Saturday) — For Christians only

Optional Holidays

In addition to these public holidays, the government has designated optional holidays for 2026, allowing employees to observe certain days according to their personal or religious beliefs. This ensures inclusivity for minority communities and flexibility for the workforce.

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Officials have urged citizens and organizations to refer to the official calendar to plan public and private sector activities, ensuring smooth functioning throughout the year.

The announcement also emphasizes that these holidays aim to celebrate national pride, religious observances, and cultural diversity across Pakistan.