Breaking: Pakistan Announces Official Public Holidays for 2026 – Check Full List

The Government of Pakistan has officially announced the Pakistan Public Holidays 2026 schedule, featuring all national, religious, and bank holidays. This comprehensive list helps citizens, businesses, and government institutions plan their calendars for the upcoming year.

From Eid-ul-Fitr to Independence Day, every occasion reflects Pakistan’s diverse cultural and religious heritage. Here’s the complete breakdown of Government Holidays 2026 in Pakistan.

❓ How many public holidays are there in Pakistan in 2026?

In 2026, Pakistan will observe around 17 official public holidays, including national, religious, and bank holidays. These cover key events such as Pakistan Day, Labour Day, Independence Day, Iqbal Day, and Quaid-e-Azam Day, along with major Islamic festivals like Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Azha, Ashura, and Eid Milad-un-Nabi. Bank-specific holidays like New Year, Ramadan start, and Mid-Year Closing are also part of the official schedule.

📅 Complete List of Pakistan Public Holidays 2026

🇵🇰 National Holidays 2026 – Celebrating Pakistan’s Identity

Kashmir Solidarity Day 2026 – Unity for a Cause

Observed on February 5, this day expresses solidarity with the people of Kashmir. Rallies, speeches, and national prayers take place across Pakistan to show unwavering support.

Pakistan Day 2026 – March 23 National Celebration

Commemorating the Lahore Resolution of 1940, Pakistan Day honors the foundation of the country’s independence movement. The main event is held in Islamabad with a grand military parade, attended by national leaders.

Labour Day 2026 – Honoring Workers’ Rights

Celebrated on May 1, Labour Day (Youm-e-Mazdoor) recognizes the contribution of Pakistan’s working class. Trade unions and public organizations arrange awareness walks and labor welfare seminars.

Independence Day 2026 – 14th August

The biggest patriotic day of the year. Buildings and streets across Pakistan are decorated with flags and green lights. Flag-raising ceremonies and cultural shows are held nationwide.

Allama Iqbal Day 2026 – Remembering the Poet of the Nation

On November 9, Pakistan pays tribute to Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the philosopher-poet who inspired the dream of a separate homeland for Muslims of the subcontinent.

Quaid-e-Azam Day & Christmas 2026

Observed together on December 25, this day celebrates the birthday of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Pakistan’s founder, while also marking Christmas for the Christian community.

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❓ What holidays are in August 2026?

August 2026 features two major holidays in Pakistan.
The first is Independence Day on August 14 (Friday), celebrating Pakistan’s freedom with nationwide parades, flag hoisting, and cultural events. The second is Eid Milad-un-Nabi on August 25 (Tuesday), marking the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), observed with religious gatherings, processions, and prayers across the country.

🕌 Religious Holidays 2026 – Islamic Calendar Observances

Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 – March 21 to 23

The joyful festival marking the end of Ramadan, Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated for three days. Families gather for prayers, exchange gifts, and prepare traditional meals. Charitable giving through Fitrana remains a key part of this festival.

Eid-ul-Azha 2026 – May 27 to 28

Known as the Festival of Sacrifice, Eid-ul-Azha commemorates the spirit of obedience and sacrifice. Muslims perform Qurbani and distribute meat among relatives and the needy.

This holiday also coincides with Youm-e-Takbeer, a national observance marking Pakistan’s historic nuclear achievement.

Ashura 2026 – June 25 and 26

Falling on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, Ashura carries deep spiritual and historical significance. It is observed with processions, prayers, and sermons, especially within Shia communities.

Eid Milad-un-Nabi 2026 – August 25

This day celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Mosques, streets, and homes are illuminated, while processions and religious gatherings emphasize the Prophet’s teachings of peace and compassion.

💰 Bank Holidays 2026 Pakistan – For Financial Institutions

Pakistan’s bank holidays 2026 are specific to financial institutions and are not public holidays for the general population.
Banks remain closed to complete annual audits, reconcile accounts, and manage administrative tasks.

List of Bank Holidays:

• January 1 – New Year Bank Holiday
• February 19 – Start of Ramadan Bank Holiday
• July 1 – Mid-Year Bank Holiday

These closures allow banking staff to process records and finalize mid-year reporting.

🌍 Global & Christian Holidays in Pakistan 2026

Along with Islamic and national events, Pakistan also observes some global holidays recognized worldwide.
These include:

• New Year’s Day – January 1
• Labour Day – May 1
• Christmas Day – December 25
• Boxing Day (Second Day of Christmas) – December 26

The Christian community across Pakistan celebrates these days with church prayers, carols, and community dinners.

🕋 Importance of Islamic Holidays in Pakistan

Islamic holidays like Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Azha, Ashura, and Eid Milad-un-Nabi hold profound spiritual value for Pakistani Muslims. Each festival promotes reflection, unity, and community service.

As Pakistan follows the Hijri lunar calendar, the final confirmation of these dates depends on the official moon sighting announcement by the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.

❓ How many public holidays are there in Pakistan in 2025?

Pakistan had approximately 16 official public holidays in 2025, following a similar pattern of national and religious observances. These included Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Azha, Ashura, Independence Day, Pakistan Day, and Labour Day. The exact number varied slightly based on the lunar calendar and moon sighting announcements made by the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.

❓ What holidays are in April 2026?

In April 2026, there are no major national or public holidays officially listed for Pakistan. However, this month will likely fall between the fasting period of Ramadan and the preparation for Eid-ul-Fitr, depending on moon sighting. During this time, schools and offices may adjust working hours to accommodate fasting schedules.

📆 Official Notifications and Variations

The official list of holidays is typically confirmed by the Ministry of Interior, Government of Pakistan, through a formal gazette notification at the start of each year.

Some holidays may vary slightly for provinces or specific sectors (for example, bank-only holidays or regional observances).

Government employees, educational institutions, and businesses are advised to monitor these notifications closely to adjust operational schedules accordingly.

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🏖️ Planning Your 2026 Vacations & Long Weekends

Many of the 2026 holidays conveniently fall near weekends, creating multiple long-break opportunities.
For instance:

• Eid-ul-Fitr (March 21–23) offers a 3-day weekend.
• Eid-ul-Azha (May 27–28) falls mid-week and may lead to extended office closures.
• Independence Day (August 14), on a Friday, gives a 3-day weekend.

These combinations make 2026 an excellent year for planning family trips, weddings, or religious visits (Umrah and Ziyarat).

🕰️ Cultural Significance of Public Holidays in Pakistan

Public holidays in Pakistan serve not just as days of rest but as symbolic moments of national pride and unity.
They highlight the country’s diverse traditions — from religious devotion during Ramadan to patriotic celebrations on Independence Day.

Moreover, holidays like Iqbal Day and Quaid-e-Azam Day reinforce Pakistan’s historical identity and the values on which it was founded — faith, discipline, and unity.

📜 Final Notes – Stay Updated on Pakistan Public Holidays 2026

While the Pakistan Public Holidays 2026 calendar provides a clear overview, some dates, especially Islamic ones, may shift due to moon sighting. Always verify closer to the date through:

• Official government notifications
• News updates from the Ministry of Interior
• Announcements by the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee

Keeping track ensures timely planning for business operations, travel, and family events.

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FAQs – Pakistan Public Holidays 2026:

🏁 Conclusion – Pakistan Announces Official Public Holidays for 2026

The Public Holidays 2026 Pakistan schedule captures the spirit of unity, faith, and diversity that defines the nation. Whether you are planning your business year, vacations, or religious commitments, this calendar provides the foundation to organize the year ahead with confidence.

From Eid celebrations to national commemorations, every holiday tells a story of Pakistan’s history, faith, and resilience.