Festivals & holidaysتہوار

Late June 2026Religious approximate

Solemn commemoration, especially for the Shia community, with large processions in some areas.

Aug 14, 2026National

The biggest national celebration: flags on everything, concerts, the Pakistan Monument lit up, and joyful crowds who will absolutely want selfies with visitors.

Late Aug 2026Religious approximate

The Prophet's birthday: green lights and decorations across the city, processions, and distributed sweets.

Sep 6, 2026National

Military commemoration day with ceremonies; a working day for most.

Nov 9, 2026National

Honors the national poet-philosopher Allama Iqbal.

Dec 25, 2026National

Founder Jinnah's birthday shares the date with Christmas, celebrated by Pakistan's Christian community.

Approx Feb 8 to Mar 9, 2027Religious approximate

The holy month: quiet days, alive nights, and Iftar hospitality visitors remember forever. Read the Ramadan guide topic before traveling in it.

Approx Mar 10 to 12, 2027Religious approximate

The festival ending Ramadan: new clothes, family feasts, and a city that empties then celebrates.

Mar 21, 2027Culture

Persian new year, celebrated in cultural centers and by communities in the north (Hunza especially).

Mar 23, 2027National

Commemorates the 1940 Lahore Resolution; historically marked with a military parade in Islamabad.

May to Sep 2027Travel season

The window when Hunza, Skardu and the Karakoram Highway are at their best, the reason many visitors come at all.

Approx May 17 to 19, 2027Religious approximate

The festival of sacrifice: livestock markets beforehand, communal meals, and meat distributed to the poor.