Lahore to celebrate Basant for 10 days from Jan 29 to Feb 7

Lahore will host the Basant festival for a record 10 days, from January 29 to February 7, 2027, with festivities interrupted on February 5 for Kashmir Day, according to a schedule endorsed by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. The government pledged stronger safety and convenience measures compared to this year's event, which saw the festival return after an 18-year absence.

Maryam emphasized the festival as a way to showcase Punjab's cultural heritage and traditions to the world, urging residents to celebrate responsibly and adhere to safety regulations.

The 10-day celebration aims to promote Punjab's cultural colors and Lahore's centuries-old customs on a global stage. Last year's festival took place from February 6 to 8 following a ban in 2007 due to fatalities and serious injuries caused by kite strings, especially among motorcyclists and pillion riders, as well as celebratory gunfire. Initially, Basant was scheduled for March 12 to 14, but was moved to the current dates.

To ensure a safer festival next year, the Punjab government has introduced regulations for kite-flying and related activities. The Lahore district administration has mandated registration and No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for kite and thread manufacturers. A Basant Portal 2027 has been launched, requiring all parties involved in kite and material production to obtain formal approval through the district portal.

Punjab Housing and Urban Development Minister Bilal Yasin has directed authorities to finalize a comprehensive beautification and cultural plan for the festival, including decorative floats, lighting, and floral displays along major roads, entry points, and heritage sites. The Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) will oversee these preparations, with Director General Ahmad Usman Javed presenting the plans at a recent meeting. Safety remains a top priority as Lahore gears up for the extended Basant celebrations.