The federal government has announced the schedule for public holidays in Pakistan. Looking ahead to 2024, Pakistanis can expect 33 public and optional holidays, offering ample opportunities for leisure and reflection.
Public holidays are cherished in every culture, offering a chance to celebrate important events and traditions. Whether in big cities like Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Islamabad, or in smaller cities, towns, and villages, these holidays provide a welcome respite from the daily grind, allowing people to commemorate significant moments in the nation’s history.
Among the key public holidays are:
Kashmir Day (February 5th): This day marks the anniversary of the solidarity day with the Kashmiri people in their struggle for self-determination.
Pakistan Day (March 23rd): This national holiday commemorates the Lahore Resolution, which called for an independent Muslim state.
Eid ul Fitr (April/May): This Islamic festival marks the end of Ramadan. It is a joyous occasion celebrated with family, friends, and delicious food.
Independence Day (August 14th): This national holiday celebrates Pakistan’s independence from British rule in 1947. It is a day of national pride and patriotism, celebrated with fireworks, parades, and cultural events.
Public holidays
S No | Occasion | Days | Dates |
1 | Kashmir Day | Monday | February 5 |
2 | Pakistan Day | Saturday | March 23 |
3 | Eid ul Fitr (Shawwal 1, 1445 AH) | Wednesday, Thursday, Friday | April 10, 11, 12 |
4 | Labour Day | Wednesday | May 1 |
5 | Eid ul Adha (Zil Hajj 10, 1445 AH) | Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday | June 17, 18, 19 |
6 | Ashura (Muharram 9 and 10 1446 AH) | Tuesday and Wednesday | July 16 and 17 |
7 | Independence Day | Wednesday | August 14 |
8 | Eid Milad un Nabi (Rabi ul Awwal 12, 1446 AH) | Monday | September 16 |
9 | Allama Iqbal Day | Saturday | November 9 |
10 | Quaid-e-Azam Day/Christmas | Wednesday | December 25 |
11 | Day after Christmas | Thursday | December 26 |
In addition to these public holidays, several optional holidays are observed by various religious and cultural communities in Pakistan. These include New Year’s Day, Basant Panchami (Hindu spring festival), and Shab-e-Miraj (Islamic night of ascent).
Optional holidays
S No | Occasion | Day | Dates |
1 | New Year | Monday | January 1 |
2 | Basant Punchami | Wednesday | February 14 |
3 | Shivaratri | Friday | March 8 |
4 | Shab-e-Miraj (Rajab 27, 1445 AH) | Wednesday | February 7 |
5 | Holi | Sunday | March 24 |
6 | Dulhandi | Monday | March 25 |
7 | Shab-e-Barat (Shaban 15, 1445 AH) | Sunday | February 25 |
8 | Good Friday | Friday | March 29 |
9 | Easter/ Day After Easter Sunday | Sunday, Monday | March 31 and April 1 |
10 | Eid-e-Rizwan (Bahai Community only) | Sunday | April 21 |
11 | Baisakhi | Saturday | April 13 |
12 | Budda Pumima | Saturday | March 23 |
13 | Nauroze (Parsi’s New Year’s Day) | Thursday | August 15 |
14 | Birthday of Lord Zoroaster (Khordad Sal) | Tuesday | August 20 |
15 | Chehlum (Safar 20, 1446 AH) | Wednesday | August 27 |
16 | Janam Ashtami | Monday | August 26 |
17 | Durga Puja | Friday | October 11 |
18 | Dussehra | Saturday | October 12 |
19 | Giyarvee Shareef (Rabi us Sani 11, 1446 AH) | Wednesday | October 16 |
20 | Birthday of Guru | Tuesday | October 17 |
21 | Diwali | Friday | November 1 |
22 | Guruk Nanak Dev Jee Birthday | Friday | November 15 |
Bank holidays
S No | Day/Date |
1 | January 1 (Monday) |
2 | March 11 (Monday) corresponding to Ramadan 1, 1445 AH, for deduction of Zakat |
3 | July 1 |
Whether planning a festive gathering or simply looking for rest and relaxation, Pakistan’s public holidays in 2024 offer something for everyone. So, mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate!