Pakistan Public Holidays 2026 — Complete Official Schedule You Must Know!
The Government of Pakistan has released the official list of public holidays for 2026. These holidays are days when schools, government offices, and many businesses are closed. People can rest, celebrate important events, and spend time with family and friends.
Public holidays in Pakistan include national days, religious festivals, and special community holidays. This guide explains all of them clearly so you can plan your year.
What Are Public Holidays?
Public holidays are special days when:
- Schools remain closed
- Government offices do not work
- Many private businesses are closed
- People take a break and celebrate
On these days, people remember important events, celebrate festivals, and spend time with loved ones.
Total Public Holidays in 2026
In 2026, Pakistan will have about 17 official public holidays. Some are celebrated by everyone, while others are meant for specific communities.
These holidays fall into three main groups:
- National holidays
- Religious holidays
- Community holidays
Official List of Public Holidays in Pakistan 2026
| Date (2026) | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
| 5 Feb | Thursday | Kashmir Day |
| 21–23 Mar | Saturday–Monday | Eid ul Fitr* |
| 23 Mar | Monday | Pakistan Day |
| 1 May | Friday | Labour Day |
| 27–28 May | Wednesday–Thursday | Eid ul Adha* |
| 28 May | Thursday | Youm‑e‑Takbeer |
| 25–26 Jun | Thursday–Friday | Ashura* |
| 14 Aug | Friday | Independence Day |
| 25 Aug | Tuesday | Eid Milad‑un‑Nabi ﷺ* |
| 9 Nov | Monday | Iqbal Day |
| 25 Dec | Friday | Quaid‑e‑Azam Day & Christmas |
| 26 Dec | Saturday | Christmas (for Christians) |
*Islamic holidays depend on moon sighting and may change based on official announcements.
National Holidays in Pakistan (2026)
Kashmir Day – 5 February
This day shows support for the people of Kashmir. Schools and offices close, and rallies and TV programs are held to mark the day.
Pakistan Day – 23 March
Pakistan Day remembers the Pakistan Resolution passed in 1940. It is celebrated with flag hoisting ceremonies, parades, and national programs across the country.
Labour Day – 1 May
Labour Day honors workers and laborers. It reminds everyone that workers deserve respect and good working conditions.
Youm‑e‑Takbeer – 28 May
This day celebrates Pakistan becoming a nuclear power. Schools and offices close to honor this event.
Independence Day – 14 August
This is one of the happiest days of the year. People decorate homes with flags, wear green and white clothes, and celebrate Pakistan’s freedom.
Iqbal Day – 9 November
Iqbal Day remembers Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the poet and thinker who inspired the idea of Pakistan.
Quaid‑e‑Azam Day – 25 December
This marks the birthday of Quaid‑e‑Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan.
Religious Holidays in Pakistan (2026)
Eid ul Fitr – ~21–23 March
Eid ul Fitr is celebrated at the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. Families pray together, wear new clothes, visit relatives, and enjoy special meals.
Eid ul Adha – ~27–28 May
Eid ul Adha is the Festival of Sacrifice. People sacrifice animals, share meat with the poor, and help those in need.
Ashura – ~25–26 June
Ashura is a day of mourning and remembrance, especially observed by Muslims in memory of Imam Hussain (RA) and the events of Karbala.
Eid Milad‑un‑Nabi ﷺ – ~25 August
This day celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Muslims attend special gatherings, recite naats, and remember the life of the Prophet.
Community Holidays
Christmas – 25 December
Christmas is celebrated by Christians and others across Pakistan. It is a public holiday for everyone.
Second Day of Christmas – 26 December
This day is an extra holiday for the Christian community only.
These holidays show Pakistan’s respect and inclusion for all religious communities.
Moon Sighting and Islamic Holidays
Islamic holidays like Eid ul Fitr, Eid ul Adha, Ashura, and Eid Milad‑un‑Nabi ﷺ are based on the lunar calendar. Their exact dates will be confirmed after official moon sighting announcements from authorities.
This means:
- Dates might change slightly
- Government releases final dates close to the event
- Always check updates before planning travel
How Public Holidays Help People
Public holidays are more than days off — they help:
- Students take a break from studies
- Workers rest and relax
- Families spend quality time together
- People travel and celebrate festivals
- Communities remember history and culture
Holidays also bring happiness, reduce stress, and help people stay connected with traditions.
Tips to Plan Your Holidays in 2026
Here are some simple tips to make the most of your holidays:
✔ Mark all holidays on your calendar at the start of the year
✔ Plan trips or family time early to avoid last‑minute rush
✔ Save money for Eid shopping and celebrations
✔ Check moon sighting announcements for correct Islamic holiday dates
Planning ahead helps you enjoy every holiday without stress.
Final Words
The Pakistan Public Holidays Schedule for 2026 makes it easy to plan your year with peace and clarity. These holidays teach us about culture, religion, and national history while giving everyone good opportunities to rest and enjoy life.
Whether it’s a national celebration or a time for spiritual reflection, every holiday in 2026 has its own meaning. By staying updated with official announcements and moon sighting reports, you can prepare for each special day in advance.
