LAHORE, 18 August, 2026 (Ghufran): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced a three-day Basant festival in Lahore from March 12 to 14, 2027, following the successful revival of the traditional kite-flying festival earlier this year.In a post on X, the chief minister said Lahore would once again come alive with colours, culture, festivities, music, energy and its legendary hospitality during Basant 2027.Addressing the youth of Punjab and Pakistan, Maryam Nawaz said, “This celebration is for you; come together, create memories, and make Lahore shine with your energy and spirit!”She also invited overseas Pakistanis and international guests to mark their calendars and return to Lahore to enjoy the colours and festivities of the city.“Insha’Allah, together we will make Basant 2027 another great success and a celebration to remember!” the chief minister said, adding that Lahore would be waiting to welcome the Pakistani diaspora to the special event.

Lahore hosted its first Basant festival in more than two decades in February 2026 after the Punjab government lifted the ban on kite flying under strict safety regulations.The three-day celebrations brought a festive atmosphere to the provincial capital, with roads and streets illuminated with lights and decorations, while rooftop gatherings and celebrations continued late into the night.The Punjab government had also introduced several measures to facilitate citizens during the festival, including a free transport service.Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb had described the successful Basant celebrations as a victory for Lahore and Pakistan and said that an even more vibrant Basant would be held the following year.During the three-day festival, she said around two million people used the free transport facility, while approximately one million vehicles entered Punjab.