Social media is flooded with rumours claiming that there will be a four-day public holiday in Lahore in the next month (February).
But is there any truth to this claim or is it just another fake news floating on your social media timeline?
Basant will be held in Punjab in the first week of February. Sources revealed that February 5 is usually observed as public holiday due to Kashmir Day.
On the other hand, Saturday and Sunday are already observed as holidays but the authorities are mulling over declaring Friday as a holiday too.
The people of Lahore are excited about the four-day holiday. A resident of Lahore, Bilal while speaking to Pakistan Connect, said that “if the holidays are confirmed, then it will be good news as we will be able to enjoy Basant festivities to the fullest.”
Free transport announced across Punjab for Basant
As the Basant festival dates approach, the residents of Punjab get a good news, with free transport across the province.
The Punjab government during an important meeting in Lahore to overview the preparations for Basant celebrations.
Information Minister Azma Bukhari said free transport will be available for three days across the city on February 6, 7, and 8.
Information Minister Azma Bukhari said the move aims to facilitate the public adding that buses and rickshaws will run free during Basant days.
DC Lahore notifies Basant 2026 celebration
The Deputy Commissioner of Lahore yesterday gave a green signal by officially announcing permission for celebrating Basant 2026.
The kite flying is allowed between February 6, 7, and 8.
Authorities have taken all possible safety measures to avoid accidents and asked the public to be very careful.
As per the notification, such material will be used for kite flying, which will be approved by the Government. Every kind of trade related to the kite materials will be allowed from December 30, 2025, and it will continue till February 8, 2026.
The public sale of the kites will be available from February 1 to February 8, 2026.
Registration Apps for Sellers
The registration for manufacturers, traders, and sellers of kites began on December 29, 2025. Official apps have been introduced in order to process the application, which includes the e-biz app or basant.punjab.gov.pk.
Only registered proprietors will be allowed to sell the kite materials.
Quality Material Selling
The notification also says that sharp items such as metal wire, nylon, plastic, or dangerous maanjha are strictly prohibited.
Moreover, the usage of spools, also known as “charkhi”, is completely banned. Only cotton strings which are comprised of a specific quality are allowed, and kite and gudda sizes have been fixed according to the regulations.
Authorities have strictly directed the proprietors that they should get registered as soon as possible and display their registration certificates at their shops.
The shop owners must keep a record of stock, sales, and movement of kite materials.
The Deputy Commissioner’s office has said that these measures will certify a secure and well-organised Basant Festival, ensuring public safety.
Also Read: Lahore Basant 2026 notification challenged in court
