The Punjab government has officially announced a mega-break for the first week of February 2026. This rare long weekend combines Shab-e-Barat, Kashmir Solidarity Day, and the colorful Basant Festival 2026. For Lahore residents, the holiday extends to 5 days, while the rest of Punjab enjoys a 4-day break.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif emphasized that this long weekend is a gift to the people, allowing them to celebrate cultural traditions and perform religious duties without work-related stress. To further support citizens, the government has introduced Free Metro Bus and Orange Line rides, ensuring safe and convenient travel across Lahore during this festive period.
Official Punjab Holiday Schedule & Institution Status
| Holiday Name | Date | Day | Institution Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shab-e-Barat | Feb 4, 2026 | Wednesday | Closed (Province-wide) |
| Kashmir Solidarity Day | Feb 5, 2026 | Thursday | Closed (National Holiday) |
| Basant Holiday (Day 1) | Feb 6, 2026 | Friday | Closed (Provincial Holiday) |
| Basant Holiday (Day 2) | Feb 7, 2026 | Saturday | Closed (Government & Schools) |
| Weekly Holiday | Feb 8, 2026 | Sunday | Closed (All Sectors) |
| Reopening Date | Feb 9, 2026 | Monday | Normal Operations Resume |
This schedule includes all government offices, schools, banks, and other public institutions, ensuring citizens are aware of the official closures.
Educational Institutions Closed During Punjab Long Weekend
All educational institutions in Punjab, including public and private schools, colleges, and universities, will remain closed from February 4 to February 8, 2026. The School Education Department has issued a formal notification to ensure students can safely enjoy the Basant 2026 festivities with their families.
- Primary & High Schools: All government and private school networks will observe the full break.
- Higher Education: Universities, including Punjab University (PU) and UET, will suspend classes and administrative work.
- Examination Schedules: Any exams planned during this period are postponed to the following week.
- Teacher Training: Provincial training workshops are postponed to align with the holiday schedule.
Institution-Wise Operational Guide for February 2026
| Institution Type | Operational Status | Special Services |
|---|---|---|
| Public Sector Banks | Closed (Feb 5-8) | 24/7 ATM Availability |
| Private Offices | Closed (Feb 6-8) | Online Work Only |
| Hospitals (ER) | OPEN | Special Trauma Desks |
| Orange Line Train | OPEN | FREE RIDES for all |
| Metro Bus Service | OPEN | FREE RIDES for all |
| Punjab Secretariat | Closed (Feb 5-8) | No Public Dealings |
| Excise & Taxation | Closed (Feb 5-8) | Online Portal Active |
| Police & Rescue | OPEN | High Alert Security |
This Punjab institutions closure list 2026 provides clarity for citizens regarding emergency services, banking, and transportation during the long weekend.
Government Offices and Secretariat Closure Details
The Services & General Administration Department (S&GAD) has confirmed that all administrative wings will be non-functional during this period. This measure encourages citizens to use public transport and reduces city traffic congestion.
- Civil Secretariat Lahore: Main administrative hub closed; no official meetings.
- District Administration: DC and AC offices closed across all districts.
- Technical Institutions: TEVTA centers and vocational training institutes will observe holidays.
- Court Operations: Lahore High Court and lower courts will remain closed on gazetted holidays.
Banking and Financial Sector During the Holiday
With February 5 being a National Holiday and February 6 a Provincial Holiday for Basant, most banks in Punjab will remain closed for in-person services. Digital platforms, however, will remain active.
- Commercial Bank Branches: Closed until Monday, Feb 9.
- State Bank Directives: ATMs stocked for the shopping rush.
- Corporate Transactions: Businesses advised to complete urgent transactions before Feb 4.
- Stock Exchange: PSX closed on Feb 5, following the national holiday calendar.
Health and Emergency Services on High Alert
While offices remain closed, Punjab Health Department and Law Enforcement are on a zero-leave policy to ensure Basant 2026 safety.
- Government Hospitals: OPDs closed; emergency and surgical wings fully staffed.
- Rescue 1122: Units stationed at Metro stations and Walled City.
- Safe Basant Enforcement: Police deployed to enforce ban on metallic kite strings and aerial firing.
- Mobile Health Units: Clinics near major festival parks to assist visitors.
For official updates on holidays and public services, visit the Punjab Government Official Portal.
Impact on Private Markets and Public Transport
The Free Transport Plan is a highlight of this long weekend. The government is providing Free Orange Line and Metro Bus rides, reducing the need for private vehicles and controlling smog and air pollution in Lahore.
- Transport Logistics: Over 500 buses and full Orange Line fleet dedicated to free public use.
- Retail Markets: Shopping malls and traditional markets remain open.
- Tourism Growth: Hotels expecting full occupancy due to domestic tourism.
- Industrial Sector: Most manufacturing units in Sundar and Quaid-e-Azam Industrial Estates will close to allow workers family time.
Conclusion
The Punjab Long Weekend February 2026 is a historic event, prioritizing cultural celebration, public safety, and convenience. With schools, banks, and offices closed, combined with Free Metro and Orange Line services, citizens can enjoy Shab-e-Barat, Kashmir Solidarity Day, and Basant Festival 2026 safely. Normal operations will resume on Monday, February 9, 2026, marking the end of one of the most enjoyable long weekends in Punjab’s history.
This article is for informational purposes only. SmartFixers.pk is not an official government website and is not affiliated with any government department. Readers are advised to verify all information from official government sources before taking any action.
Our editorial team publishes original and informational content for educational purposes only.
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