KEY POINTS
- Lahore’s Basant festival returns from February 6-8 with inaugural events at the Lahore Fort and citywide celebrations.
- A new zoned sponsorship model divides the city into Platinum, Gold, and Silver areas for tailored cultural activities.
- Safety is prioritised with extended kite-flying in parks, bans on hazardous strings, and drone surveillance.
- The festival includes a diplomatic event to showcase Basant traditions internationally and revitalise cultural tourism.
LAHORE: Pakistan’s historic city of Lahore is buzzing with anticipation for Basant 2026, set to light up the skies on February 6, 7, and 8 with kites, music, and cultural revelry.
A meticulously planned schedule promises three days of unbridled joy, kicking off with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz inaugurating the festivities on February 6. This revival of the beloved spring festival blends tradition with modern safety measures, drawing locals and visitors alike.
Lahore Fort: Epicentre of inaugural events
Lahore Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, takes centre stage but will be closed to the general public from February 5 to 8 for exclusive events. The grand inaugural ceremony unfolds on February 6, graced by provincial ministers, prominent politicians, and senior officials, setting a majestic tone with cultural performances and kite displays.
Adding global flair, a special afternoon event on February 7 invites foreign diplomats. This initiative aims to showcase Pakistan’s vibrant Basant traditions, rooted in Mughal-era kite-flying and spring harvest celebrations, fostering cultural diplomacy on an international stage.
Citywide transformation and expanded celebrations
Preparations are in full swing to adorn Lahore like a resplendent bride, with streets aglow in colourful lights, floral decorations, and festive markets. Breaking from past rooftop-only traditions, kite flying now extends to parks and open spaces under rigorous standard operating procedures (SOPs) for Basant 2026.
Punjab Horticulture Authority Director General Raja Mansoor Ahmed emphasised, “Parks are Lahore’s green lungs; Basant will thrive citywide with strict SOP compliance, ensuring safety and inclusivity.”
The city’s festival will be organised through a zoned sponsorship model, with areas categorised into three distinct tiers.
Also Read: Pakistan’s Punjab Province Revives Basant Festival After 25 Years with Strict Safety Rules
Lahore divides into zones
The Platinum Zone, covering Liberty Market, the Walled City, and Mall Road, will host premium cultural shows and events supported by high-end sponsorships. The Gold Zone, encompassing Jail Road and Ferozepur Road, will feature vibrant public attractions like dedicated kite-flying zones and music stages. Finally, the Silver Zone, covering all remaining areas of Lahore, will focus on fostering widespread community celebrations and local cultural vibrancy.
The Punjab government has smartly categorised Lahore into Platinum, Gold, and Silver zones for tailored activities. All events, except essential road safety camps, will run on sponsorships, expressions of interest already invited, ensuring a grand yet sustainable spectacle.
Safety remains paramount, with bans on hazardous strings, drone surveillance, and medical teams on standby. Basant 2026 revives Lahore’s festive soul while embracing responsibility, promising memories etched in yellow blooms and soaring kites.
