Pakistan is all set to celebrate its 79th Independence Day on August 14, with celebrations planned across the country.

The day will begin with flag-hoisting ceremonies, parades, cultural programmes, concerts, patriotic songs and other public events. Streets, markets, homes and buildings are also being decorated with Pakistani flags and green and white lights.

Here is what you need to know about the Independence Day celebrations planned this year.

Independence Day Celebrations in Islamabad

Islamabad will host several events on August 14, with activities planned at Parade Ground, Pakistan Monument, Lok Virsa, PNCA and F-9 Park.

People in Islamabad will be able to attend parades, cultural programmes, concerts and other activities throughout the day.

Independence Day Parade at Parade Ground

A public parade will be held at the old Parade Ground on August 14.

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) will organise the event, which is scheduled to start at 5pm.

A large number of people are expected to attend the parade as part of the city’s Independence Day celebrations.

PAF Flypast and Midnight Fireworks

A Pakistan Air Force (PAF) flypast is also expected in Islamabad on August 14.

A daytime flypast is planned over Parade Ground and the Expressway. Fireworks will also be held around midnight near the Marka-e-Haq Monument close to the H-8.

The midnight celebrations are expected to be one of the main attractions for people celebrating Independence Day in the capital.

Flag March at Pakistan Monument

A special flag march will be held at Pakistan Monument on August 14.

The monument will be one of the main spots for the activities in Islamabad. More details about the timing and arrangements are expected from the Islamabad administration.

Lok Virsa Independence Day Event

Lok Virsa will organise a special programme called “Milli Naghmon Ki Shaam Jashn-e-Azadi” on August 14.

The programme will include national songs and patriotic performances.

The event will be held at the Lok Virsa Open Air Theatre from 6pm to 8pm, and entry will be free.

PNCA to Hold ‘Story of Pakistan’ Puppet Show

The Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) will organise a puppet show “Story of Pakistan” on Independence Day.

The show will present the story of Pakistan through puppetry and performances.

It will start at 10:30am on August 14 at the PNCA Auditorium in F-5/1, Islamabad.

PNCA will also hold an evening programme titled “Azaadi: A National Tribute”. The event will feature music and cultural performances, including performances by the Manwa Sisters from Punjab.

The programme will begin at 7pm at the PNCA Auditorium.

Independence Day Concert at F-9 Park

An Independence Day concert will be held at F-9 Park.

The Islamabad administration is organising the event, which is expected to attract a large number of people.

Details about the performers and exact timing will be announced separately.

14 August Celebrations in AJK

Preparations are also underway in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK).

Several activities are planned, including flag-hoisting ceremonies, boat rallies, car and motorcycle rallies and tree plantation drives.

A Jashan-e-Azadi boat rally will be held at Mangla Dam, while rallies are planned in Mirpur, Kotli and Bhimber.

Flag-Hoisting Ceremonies in AJK

Flag-hoisting ceremonies will be held at government and private buildings, markets and other public places across AJK.

In the AJK capital, the main ceremony will take place at the President House. In Mirpur, a flag-hoisting ceremony will be held at the Mirpur Municipal Corporation lawn on the morning of August 14. Buildings and public places will also be decorated with green-and-white lights.

Murree Announces Special Security Measures

Murree administration has introduced special security and traffic measures from August 10 to August 16 because of the expected rush of visitors.

Families will be allowed to move towards Mall Road, while some restrictions may apply to groups of non-family visitors.

Aerial firing, display of weapons, dangerous bike stunts, wheelies and fireworks have also been restricted.

Police have asked tourists and residents to follow the rules and cooperate with officials.

Balochistan Gears Up for Independence Day

Independence Day preparations are also in full swing across Balochistan.

Major roads, markets and buildings in Quetta and other cities are being decorated with Pakistani flags, green-and-white lights and patriotic banners.

Officials have also reviewed security arrangements to ensure peaceful celebrations.

Quetta Decorated With Pakistani Flags

Quetta’s streets are taking on a festive look ahead of August 14.

Thousands of Pakistani flags and Independence Day banners have been installed along Sariab Road, while government and private buildings across the city are being illuminated.

Hub on High Alert

The district administration in Hub, Balochistan, has increased security ahead of Independence Day.

Security agencies have been directed to carry out more checking and surveillance at entry and exit points, markets, major roads and other sensitive areas.

Police, Frontier Corps and other security agencies will also hold a flag march in the city.

Independence Day Events in Hub

The main flag-hoisting ceremony will take place at 7:45am on August 14.

It will be followed by the main Independence Day programme at the LIEDA Auditorium at 9am.

Similar events will also be held in Winder and Dureji, including football, cricket and shooting-ball competitions.

The administration has also been asked to ensure a steady power supply during the celebrations.

People Prepare for August 14 Celebrations

Across Pakistan, people are getting ready for Independence Day by decorating their homes, shops and vehicles.

Markets are filled with Pakistani flags, badges, stickers and other Independence Day items. Children and young people are especially excited about buying flags and decorations.

Cars, motorcycles and public transport vehicles are also being decorated with Pakistani flags.

Security Arrangements Across the Country

The concerned departments in different cities have stepped up security ahead of August 14.

Extra checking and surveillance will be carried out at public places, markets, roads and major event venues to make sure celebrations remain peaceful and safe.

Also read: 79th Independence Day: Green and white stalls draw shoppers