Lahore to Enjoy Five-Day Long Weekend from 4 to 8 February 2026 Big News

Lahore to Enjoy Five-Day Long Weekend from 4 to 8 February 2026

Lahore is observing a rare five-day long weekend from Wednesday, 4 February to Sunday, 8 February 2026. This extended break is created by a mix of religious observance, national holidays, provincial holidays, and the weekend. The long holiday period has made the city lively, festive, and busy.

This long weekend is even more special because it marks the official return of the Basant Festival after nearly 20 years. Along with Basant, several major cultural, literary, and entertainment events are taking place across Lahore. Schools, colleges, and government offices are closed, allowing families to fully enjoy the celebrations.

DateOccasion
Feb 4 (Wed)Shab-e-Barat
Feb 5 (Thu)Kashmir Solidarity Day
Feb 6 (Fri)Basant Festival Holiday
Feb 7 (Sat)Weekend / Basant
Feb 8 (Sun)Weekend
CityLahore
Total Days5 Days
AuthorityPunjab Government

Public Holidays Announced by Punjab Government

The Punjab Government has officially notified consecutive holidays, resulting in a five-day break for Lahore residents. During this period, most public and educational institutions remain closed.

The holiday schedule includes:

  • Wednesday, February 4
    • Shab-e-Barat (religious observance)
  • Thursday, February 5
    • Kashmir Solidarity Day (national public holiday)
  • Friday, February 6
    • Basant Festival (provincial holiday)
  • Saturday, February 7
    • Weekend holiday
  • Sunday, February 8
    • Weekend holiday

Due to this sequence, offices, schools, and colleges remain closed for five continuous days, creating a rare opportunity for rest and celebrations.

Basant Festival 2026 Returns Officially to Lahore

The Basant Festival 2026 is the biggest highlight of this long weekend. After almost two decades, Basant has officially returned under strict government regulations to ensure safety.

Key features of Basant Festival 2026 include:

  • Regulated kite flying at designated areas
  • Cultural shows and music programs
  • Traditional food stalls and family activities
  • Increased security and safety measures
  • Special events organized across the city

The festival runs from February 6 to February 8, filling Lahore with color, music, and celebration. Citizens have welcomed the return of Basant with excitement and enthusiasm.

Major Events and Festivals During the Long Weekend

Along with Basant, Lahore is hosting several major events during this holiday period, attracting people from across Pakistan.

Key events include:

  • DHA Basant Mela (Phase 9 Prism)
    • Three nights of concerts
    • Day 1: Abrar Ul Haq
    • Day 2: Arif Lohar
    • Day 3: Ali Zafar
    • Food arenas and fireworks
  • Lahore Literary Festival (Feb 6–8)
    • 14th edition at Alhamra Art Center
    • Participation of global scholars and writers
  • 39th Lahore International Book Fair (Feb 4–8)
    • Held at Expo Centre Lahore
    • One of Pakistan’s longest-running book fairs
  • Moto Culture Event (Feb 8)
    • Motorcycle and lifestyle showcase
    • Hosted at Vroom Racing Circuit

These events add to the festive mood and provide entertainment for people of all ages.

Popular Sightseeing and Cultural Activities in Lahore

With the long weekend and festive atmosphere, many families and tourists are visiting Lahore’s cultural and historical sites.

Popular activities include:

  • Walled City Tours
    • Guided walking tours
    • “Rangeela Rickshaw” rides
    • Visits to Delhi Gate, Shahi Hammam, and Wazir Khan Mosque
  • Mughal Heritage Sites
    • Lahore Fort
    • Badshahi Mosque
    • Traditional dining at Fort Road Food Street
  • Wagah Border Ceremony
    • Daily flag-lowering ceremony
    • Large public attendance
  • Public Parks
    • Kite flying at Greater Iqbal Park
    • Jallo Park and Model Town designated areas

These activities make the long weekend ideal for tourism and family outings.

Free Public Transport for Festival Days

To support citizens during the busy holiday period, Lahore is offering free public transport on major routes.

Facilities include:

  • Free rides on Metro Bus
  • Free travel on Orange Line Train
  • Easier access to festival venues
  • Reduced traffic congestion

This initiative helps residents attend events comfortably and safely.

For official updates about festivals and public facilities, visit the Punjab Government portal:
 👉 https://punjab.gov.pk

Conclusion

Lahore’s five-day long weekend from 4 to 8 February 2026 is a rare and exciting occasion. The break combines Shab-e-Barat, Kashmir Solidarity Day, the return of the Basant Festival, and weekend holidays. Major cultural events, concerts, book fairs, and sightseeing activities have made the city lively and festive. With public institutions closed and free transport available, Lahore residents are enjoying one of the most memorable holiday periods in recent years.

FAQs

1. Why is Lahore observing a five-day long weekend?

The long weekend is due to consecutive public holidays, Basant Festival, and weekend days.

2. Is Basant officially allowed in Lahore in 2026?

Yes, Basant 2026 has officially returned with strict safety regulations.

3. Are schools and government offices closed during this period?

Yes, schools, colleges, and government offices remain closed.

4. Is public transport free during the holidays?

Yes, Metro Bus and Orange Line Train services are free during this period.

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