| Day | Date | Holiday | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunday | Jan 01,2023 | New Year's Day | Optional Holiday |
| Thursday | Jan 26,2023 | Basant Panchami | Optional Holiday |
| Sunday | Feb 05,2023 | Kashmir Day | Public Holiday |
| Sunday | Feb 19,2023 | Shab e-Meraj | Optional Holiday |
| Tuesday | Mar 07,2023 | Holi | Optional Holiday |
| Wednesday | Mar 08,2023 | Shab e-Barat | Optional Holiday |
| Thursday | Mar 23,2023 | Pakistan Day | Public Holiday |
| Thursday | Mar 23,2023 | Ramadan Start | Observance |
| Friday | Apr 07,2023 | Good Friday | Optional Holiday |
| Sunday | Apr 09,2023 | Easter Sunday | Observance |
| Monday | Apr 10,2023 | Easter Monday | Optional Holiday |
| Friday | Apr 14,2023 | Baisakhi | Optional Holiday |
| Friday | Apr 21,2023 | Eid-ul-Fitr Holiday | Public Holiday |
| Friday | Apr 21,2023 | Ridván | Optional Holiday |
| Saturday | Apr 22,2023 | Eid-ul-Fitr | Public Holiday |
| Sunday | Apr 23,2023 | Eid-ul-Fitr Holiday | Public Holiday |
| Monday | Apr 24,2023 | Eid-ul-Fitr Holiday | Public Holiday |
| Tuesday | Apr 25,2023 | Eid-ul-Fitr Holiday | Public Holiday |
| Monday | May 01,2023 | Labour Day | Public Holiday |
| Friday | May 05,2023 | Buddha Purnima | Optional Holiday |
| Thursday | Jun 29,2023 | Eid al-Adha | Public Holiday |
| Friday | Jun 30,2023 | Eid al-Adha Holiday | Public Holiday |
| Saturday | Jul 01,2023 | July 1 Bank Holiday | Bank Holiday |
| Saturday | Jul 01,2023 | Eid al-Adha Holiday | Public Holiday |
| Friday | Jul 28,2023 | Ashura Holiday | Public Holiday |
| Saturday | Jul 29,2023 | Ashura | Public Holiday |
| Monday | Aug 14,2023 | Independence Day | Public Holiday |
| Wednesday | Aug 30,2023 | Raksha Bandhan | Hindu Holiday |
| Wednesday | Sep 06,2023 | Chelum (Tentative Date) | Optional Holiday |
| Wednesday | Sep 06,2023 | Defence Day | Observance |
| Tuesday | Sep 19,2023 | Ganesh Chaturthi | Hindu Holiday |
| Tuesday | Sep 26,2023 | Giarhwin Sharief (Tentative Date) | Optional Holiday |
| Wednesday | Sep 27,2023 | Eid Milad un-Nabi (Tentative Date) | Public Holiday |
| Sunday | Oct 22,2023 | Durga Puja | Optional Holiday |
| Tuesday | Oct 24,2023 | Dussehra | Optional Holiday |
| Saturday | Oct 28,2023 | Birthday of Guru Balmik Sawami Ji | Optional Holiday |
| Thursday | Nov 09,2023 | Iqbal Day | Public Holiday |
| Sunday | Nov 12,2023 | Diwali/Deepavali | Optional Holiday |
| Sunday | Dec 24,2023 | Christmas Eve | Observance |
| Monday | Dec 25,2023 | Christmas Day | Public Holiday |
| Monday | Dec 25,2023 | Quaid-e-Azam Day | Public Holiday |
| Tuesday | Dec 26,2023 | Day After Christmas (Christians only) | Optional Holiday |
| Sunday | Dec 31,2023 | New Year's Eve | Observance |
New Year's Day, celebrated on January 1st, marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year in Pakistan. It is a day of joyous festivities and gatherings, with people exchanging greetings and making resolutions for the year ahead. While not rooted in Pakistani culture, it's observed with enthusiasm, symbolizing fresh beginnings and hope for the future.
Basant Panchami, typically in January or February, heralds the arrival of spring. It is celebrated with kite-flying competitions, wearing yellow attire, and offering prayers to Goddess Saraswati. This day holds cultural importance as it signifies the transition from the cold winter to the vibrant season of spring, fostering a sense of renewal and rejuvenation.
Observed on February 5th, Kashmir Day is dedicated to expressing solidarity with the people of Kashmir. Pakistanis commemorate this day to raise awareness about the ongoing Kashmir conflict. It is a reminder of the political and humanitarian issues in the region, emphasizing Pakistan's support for the Kashmiri cause.
Shab e-Meraj, also known as the Night of Ascension, is an Islamic holiday that falls on the 27th day of Rajab. It commemorates the miraculous night journey and ascension of the Prophet Muhammad. Muslims engage in prayers and spiritual reflection on this occasion, highlighting its significance in the Islamic calendar.
While not a Pakistani holiday, Holi, celebrated by Hindu communities, is recognized and cherished. It is a vibrant festival of colors, celebrated in March, symbolizing the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring. People play with colored powders and water, strengthening cultural diversity and promoting harmony in Pakistan.
Shab e-Barat is an Islamic observance taking place on the 15th of Sha'ban. Muslims believe that on this night, Allah decides the destinies of individuals for the coming year. It is a night of prayer, reflection, and seeking forgiveness, emphasizing the importance of repentance and self-improvement in Islamic culture.
Pakistan Day, celebrated on March 23rd, commemorates the Lahore Resolution of 1940, a pivotal step towards Pakistan's creation. It's a day of national pride and unity, marked by parades, flag-raising ceremonies, and cultural events. Pakistanis honor their nation's heritage, reaffirming their commitment to the country's prosperity and progress.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims. It holds immense cultural and religious significance as Pakistanis come together to observe fasting from dawn to dusk, strengthen community bonds, and deepen their spiritual connection during this sacred period.
Good Friday, observed in March or April, is a Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. While it is not a widely celebrated holiday in Pakistan, it is recognized by the Christian community. It signifies religious diversity and tolerance in the country, promoting interfaith understanding and harmony.
Easter Sunday follows Good Friday and celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a significant day for the Christian community in Pakistan, marked by church services, feasting, and Easter egg hunts. This holiday reflects the rich tapestry of religious diversity in the country, fostering respect for different faiths.
Easter Monday is an extension of Easter celebrations, allowing Christians to continue their festivities and spend time with loved ones. It showcases the cultural importance of Easter in Pakistan and the values of togetherness and family bonding that transcend religious boundaries.
Baisakhi, celebrated on April 13th or 14th, is a significant festival for Sikh and Punjabi communities in Pakistan. It marks the harvest season and is celebrated with traditional dance, music, and the offering of prayers at gurdwaras. Baisakhi underscores the cultural diversity and inclusivity of Pakistan, fostering interfaith harmony.
Eid-ul-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," is a joyous occasion for Muslims, marking the end of Ramadan. It is a time of communal prayers, feasting, and giving to the less fortunate. This holiday holds immense cultural importance, emphasizing the values of compassion, generosity, and unity within the Muslim community.
Ridván is a Baha'i festival celebrated from April 21st to May 2nd, signifying the declaration of Baha'u'llah, the founder of the Baha'i Faith. While a minority religion in Pakistan, Baha'is observe this festival with prayers and gatherings, highlighting the nation's religious diversity and spirit of coexistence.
Eid-ul-Fitr, a day after Ramadan, is a significant religious holiday in Pakistan. It begins with communal prayers at mosques and is followed by visits to family and friends, exchange of gifts, and feasting. This celebration reinforces the cultural importance of sharing joy and fostering unity among Pakistan's Muslim population.
Labour Day, observed on May 1st, recognizes and honors the contributions of workers and laborers. It is a day for advocacy, highlighting workers' rights and labor-related issues. Labour Day underscores the significance of workers in shaping the nation's progress and upholding social justice and equity.
Buddha Purnima, also known as Vesak, commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha. It is celebrated by Buddhists in Pakistan with prayers, meditation, and acts of kindness. This holiday showcases the cultural diversity within Pakistan, promoting interfaith understanding and respect for Buddhist traditions.
Eid al-Adha, the "Festival of Sacrifice," is a significant Islamic holiday in Pakistan. It honors the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Families gather to perform the ritual sacrifice and share the meat with those in need, highlighting the values of compassion and charity.
Ashura, observed on the 10th day of Muharram, holds great importance in Islamic history. It commemorates events like the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, emphasizing themes of sacrifice, martyrdom, and resistance. It is a time for mourning and reflection, signifying the cultural and religious significance of this solemn day in Pakistan.
Independence Day, celebrated on August 14th, marks Pakistan's independence from British colonial rule in 1947. It is a day of patriotic fervor, with flag hoisting, parades, and cultural performances. Pakistanis take pride in their nation's sovereignty and commemorate the struggles and sacrifices of their forefathers.
Raksha Bandhan, a Hindu festival celebrated in August, is a day for siblings to express love and protection. Sisters tie colorful threads (rakhi) on their brothers' wrists, and in return, brothers offer gifts and promise to protect their sisters. This celebration highlights the cultural significance of sibling bonds and mutual care in Pakistan.
Chelum, observed on the 20th of Safar in the Islamic lunar calendar, is a Shia Muslim religious observance. It marks the end of the mourning period for the martyrdom of Imam Hussein. Shia Muslims participate in processions, prayers, and gatherings, illustrating the cultural and religious diversity within Pakistan.
Defence Day, commemorated on September 6th, honors the Pakistan Armed Forces' valor and sacrifices during the 1965 war with India. It is a day of national pride, with ceremonies and events dedicated to the armed forces. Defence Day underscores the cultural importance of patriotism and unity in the face of adversity.
Ganesh Chaturthi, celebrated by Hindu communities, marks the birth of Lord Ganesha. It involves colorful processions, idol immersion in water, and prayers. While not a widely observed holiday in Pakistan, it highlights the cultural diversity and respect for Hindu traditions within the country.
Giarhwin Sharief, celebrated by Sufi Muslims, commemorates the Urs (death anniversary) of a Sufi saint. Devotees gather at the saint's shrine for prayers, music, and spiritual reflection. This observance showcases the rich tapestry of Sufi traditions and religious diversity in Pakistan.
Eid Milad un-Nabi, also known as Mawlid al-Nabi, honors the birth of Prophet Muhammad. It is celebrated with prayers, processions, and charitable acts. This holiday holds cultural and religious significance, fostering unity and reverence among Pakistan's Muslim population.
Durga Puja is a Hindu festival celebrated with great enthusiasm, especially in Sindh. It honors the goddess Durga's victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. The festivities include idol processions, music, dance, and cultural programs, showcasing the vibrant cultural diversity within Pakistan.
Dussehra, celebrated by Hindus, marks the triumph of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. It involves the burning of effigies of Ravana, cultural performances, and prayers. This holiday reflects the cultural tapestry of Pakistan, promoting interfaith understanding and respect for Hindu traditions.
The birthday of Guru Balmik Sawami Ji, celebrated by the Balmiki community in Pakistan, honors the founder of the Balmiki religion. It is marked by prayers, hymns, and community gatherings, emphasizing the cultural diversity and inclusivity of Pakistan's religious landscape.
Iqbal Day, observed on November 9th, commemorates the birthday of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, a renowned poet and philosopher. It is a day of intellectual reflection, poetry recitations, and discussions about Iqbal's contributions to Pakistan's identity and culture. This holiday underscores the nation's commitment to preserving its intellectual heritage.
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a major Hindu festival celebrated with lighting lamps, bursting fireworks, and exchanging gifts. While not a national holiday, it reflects the cultural diversity and respect for Hindu traditions within Pakistan, fostering unity and harmony among different faiths.
Christmas Eve, celebrated on December 24th, marks the evening before Christmas Day. It is observed by the Christian community with midnight church services and festive gatherings. This holiday highlights Pakistan's cultural diversity and promotes interfaith understanding and respect for Christian traditions.
Christmas Day, on December 25th, celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a time for Christians in Pakistan to attend church services, exchange gifts, and share meals with loved ones. This holiday signifies the cultural significance of Christianity within Pakistan and fosters tolerance and religious coexistence.
Quaid-e-Azam Day, observed on December 25th, coincides with Christmas and honors Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Pakistan's founding father. It is a day of national reflection, with events and ceremonies to commemorate Jinnah's leadership and vision for an independent Pakistan. This holiday highlights Pakistan's commitment to its founding principles.
New Year's Eve, celebrated on December 31st, marks the end of the year with parties, fireworks, and festivities. It is a time for reflection on the past year and anticipation of the year ahead. While not rooted in Pakistani culture, it reflects the universal desire for hope, renewal, and a fresh start.
