As Pakistan navigates through another year of its rich cultural calendar, the Government of Pakistan, through the Cabinet Secretariat, has issued the official list of public and optional holidays for 2025. These holidays not only offer respite from the daily grind but also reflect the nation’s diverse cultural fabric and religious plurality. Here is an in-depth look at the public and optional holidays scheduled for the year 2025 in Pakistan.
Public Holidays in Pakistan 2025
- Kashmir Day (February 5, Wednesday) – A day of solidarity where Pakistanis commemorate their support for the people of Kashmir in their quest for self-determination.
- Pakistan Day (March 23, Sunday) – This day marks the Lahore Resolution on March 23, 1940, which was a formal political statement demanding an independent homeland for the Muslims of British India and is celebrated with great patriotism and fervor.
- Labour Day (May 1, Thursday) – Also known as May Day, it is observed to honor the labor force of the country and is marked by various rallies and events advocating for workers’ rights.
- Eid-ul-Fitr (March 30 – April 1, Monday to Wednesday) – Celebrated at the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, this festival is determined by the sighting of the moon and involves communal prayers, feasts, and charity.
- Youm-e-Takbeer (May 28, Wednesday) – Commemorating Pakistan’s nuclear tests in 1998, this day underscores Pakistan’s commitment to its defense capabilities.
- Eid-ul-Azha (June 7-9, Saturday to Monday) – Another significant Islamic holiday, commemorating the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), involving the slaughtering of livestock and distributing the meat to the needy.
- Independence Day (August 14, Thursday) – Celebrates Pakistan’s independence from British India in 1947 with flag-hoisting ceremonies and cultural events.
- Ashura (July 5-6, Saturday to Sunday) – Observed on the 10th day of Muharram, it marks the martyrdom of Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, Imam Hussain, at the Battle of Karbala.
- Eid Milad-un-Nabi (September 5 or 6, Friday or Saturday) – Marks the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, with celebrations including processions and decorations across cities.
- Allama Iqbal Day (November 9, Sunday) – Dedicated to the memory of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the national poet of Pakistan and an important figure in Urdu literature.
- Quaid-e-Azam Day and Christmas (December 25, Thursday) – A dual holiday commemorating the birthday of Pakistan’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and celebrating Christmas for the Christian community.
- Day after Christmas (December 26, Friday) – An additional holiday specifically for the Christian community to continue their celebrations.
Optional Holidays in Pakistan 2025
Optional holidays are provided primarily for individuals from minority communities to celebrate their religious events:
- Holi (March 20, Thursday) – A Hindu festival celebrating the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil.
- Good Friday (April 3, Friday) – Observed by Christians commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
- Easter (April 5, Sunday) – Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus, marked with special church services.
- Diwali (November 12, Wednesday) – The Hindu festival of lights, celebrating new beginnings and the triumph of light over darkness.
These dates highlight the government’s recognition of Pakistan’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious society and aim to foster inclusivity and national unity. Each holiday, whether public or optional, encourages an atmosphere of respect and celebration across diverse cultural and religious landscapes, promoting a cohesive and inclusive national identity.
