Lahore to host 10-day Basant festival in January 2027

The Punjab government has announced that the Basant festival in Lahore will be extended to a 10-day celebration running from January 29 to February 7, 2027. This marks an expansion from the three-day festival held earlier in 2026. The festivities will include a one-day pause on February 5 to observe Kashmir Day.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif directed authorities to prioritize public safety and convenience during the extended event. The festival, which involves traditional kite flying, was banned in Punjab in 2007 due to safety concerns regarding hazardous kite strings and celebratory gunfire. Following a long hiatus, the festival returned to Lahore in February 2026.

Officials emphasized that the success of the 2027 celebrations depends on participant compliance with safety regulations. The Chief Minister urged citizens to celebrate responsibly to protect human life while showcasing Punjab’s cultural heritage and Lahore’s historical traditions.