Lahore to host 10-day Basant festival from January 29

Lahore will host a 10-day Basant festival from January 29 to February 7, 2027, under a revised schedule approved by the Punjab government. Celebrations will be paused on February 5 for Kashmir Day.

The festival will mark the arrival of 2027 and is being planned as a major cultural event highlighting Lahore’s traditional heritage and Punjab’s cultural identity.

Authorities have been directed to begin preparations well in advance and improve arrangements for residents and visitors. Particular attention will be given to public safety and the smooth management of activities throughout the extended celebrations.

The government has also stressed the need for citizens to follow safety regulations and celebrate responsibly. Officials are expected to take measures aimed at preventing accidents and ensuring that the festivities do not put public lives at risk.

Basant returned to Lahore earlier this year after an 18-year ban. The festival had been prohibited in 2007 following deaths and serious injuries linked to dangerous kite strings, particularly among motorcyclists and their passengers, as well as incidents of aerial firing.

The provincial government has since introduced regulations governing kite flying and related activities. Official Lahore administration guidelines include restrictions on dangerous kite-flying materials and measures aimed at preventing the illegal transportation and use of prohibited items.

The latest announcement also revises an earlier schedule. In August, the provincial government had announced that Basant 2027 would be held from March 12 to 14.

The new plan extends the festival period considerably, while the February 5 break will allow observance of Kashmir Day.