Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved a 10-day Basant festival in Lahore, with celebrations scheduled from January 29 to February 7, 2027.
According to the approved schedule, Basant celebrations will be suspended on February 5 to observe Kashmir Day before resuming on February 6 and continuing through February 7.
The Punjab government said the extended festival is intended to promote the province’s cultural heritage and Lahore’s historic traditions. Maryam Nawaz directed the relevant authorities to begin preparations in advance and ensure better arrangements for public safety and convenience.
The announcement follows the revival of Basant in Lahore earlier in 2026, when the festival returned after a long gap and was held from February 6 to 8. Basant had previously been restricted because of deaths and serious injuries linked to hazardous kite strings and other safety concerns.
The chief minister has urged citizens to celebrate responsibly and follow the safety regulations during the festivities. Authorities have also been instructed to ensure that the longer celebration does not compromise public safety.
The new schedule replaces an earlier plan announced for March 12 to 14, 2027. The revised dates will allow Lahore to hold a longer Basant celebration at the beginning of the year.
The festival is expected to bring back Lahore’s traditional kite-flying culture while placing greater emphasis on regulated and safe celebrations.
