After almost twenty years, Lahore is finally getting its colour back. From February 6 to 8, 2026, the sky will once again fill with bright kites as Basant officially returns, approved by the Punjab government, but with clear rules this time. To let the city fully soak in the celebrations, February 6 has also been declared a local holiday in Lahore, giving people the perfect excuse to head to rooftops instead of offices.
If you’re excited to fly a kite, riding through the city on your bike, planning to sell kites, or just thinking of spending the day outside with family and friends, this guide is for you. Basant is back for fun and celebration — not confusion, not rumours, and definitely not danger.
Basant Is Back, But It’s Not the Old Basant
For Lahoris, Basant isn’t just a festival. It’s memories, rooftops, laughter, and the feeling that spring has finally arrived. This year, following the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Act 2025, the government has allowed Basant only within Lahore district and only from February 6 to 8.
That means kite flying outside Lahore, or on any other dates, is still not allowed.
And no, this isn’t an unmonitored event like the old days. Basant is returning in a controlled, regulated, and safety-first manner. The message is simple: enjoy the colours, but don’t put lives at risk. After the painful incidents of the past, safety now sits firmly at the centre of every decision.
So yes, Basant is finally back – safer, smarter, and designed to give Lahore a joyful long weekend.
What People Can Expect During Basant 2026
Kite Flying — Almost Unlimited, But With Rules
Basant 2026 officially runs from February 6 to 8, and these are the only three days when kite flying is permitted. Flying kites before or after these dates remains illegal, so timing matters this year.
To manage safety, Lahore has been divided into three zones; red, yellow, and green:
- Green zones are where kite flying is generally permitted, subject to rules.
- Yellow zones allow limited activity with closer monitoring.
- Red zones, which include sensitive, congested, or high-risk areas, will have strict restrictions, especially for bikers and crowds.
Kite flying is strictly banned in parks and green belts, as directed by the Lahore Parks & Horticulture Authority. So no park picnics with flying kites this time.
That said, the real Basant magic will still live inside neighbourhoods. Areas like Walton, Johar Town, Model Town, Gulberg, and many residential localities are expected to buzz with activity. Rooftops will be full, kids and adults cheering, and friendly competitions breaking out, just like old times, but with a bit more caution.
Citywide Energy — It’s More Than Just Kites
Basant isn’t only about flying kites; it’s about the feeling. During these three days, Lahore will look and feel different.
Expect yellow everywhere, from dupattas and ribbons to small street decorations. Food stalls selling traditional snacks will add to the festive mood. Rooftops will turn into mini hangout spots, with friends and families gathering, playing music (within allowed limits), laughing, and enjoying the weather.
There will also be strict enforcement in the background. Surveillance teams, monitoring squads, and control rooms will stay active throughout the festival to ensure rules are followed without disrupting the spirit.
Most importantly, there will be a shared sense of happiness, a city reconnecting with a tradition it hasn’t properly celebrated in almost two decades. And honestly, that feeling alone makes Basant 2026 special.
Kite Sellers & Manufacturers: What’s Allowed
If you plan to sell or manufacture kites this Basant, rules are non-negotiable.
Sales Window
Kite selling and buying is allowed from February 1 to February 8, 2026.
Mandatory Registration
All kite sellers, manufacturers, and associations must be registered through the official government portal or e-Biz app. Unregistered sales are illegal.
Only Approved Materials
- Spinning wheels (charkhis) are banned
- Nylon, metal, glass-coated, plastic-coated, or chemically treated strings are strictly prohibited
- Only cotton string is allowed
Authorities have announced zero tolerance. Violations can lead to FIRs, heavy fines, seizure of material, and legal action.
Additionally, kites carrying political, religious, or sensitive imagery are banned. Only plain or decorative designs are permitted to maintain law and order.
For Bikers — Rules You Must Know
Motorcyclists were among the most affected in past Basants, and this year, special attention is on rider safety:
- Protective safety rods on motorcycles are mandatory
- Helmets and caution are strongly advised during peak kite-flying hours
- Avoid red zones, especially during busy periods
- Authorities have warned that bikes without safety rods may face action.
What’s Still Not Allowed
Even with Basant’s return, some things remain off-limits:
- No kite flying outside Feb 6–8
- No kite flying in parks or green belts
- No banned strings or oversized kites
- No unregistered manufacturing or sales
- No aerial firing, fireworks in crowded areas, or reckless behaviour
Make This Basant Safe and Unforgettable
Basant 2026 is Lahore’s chance to bring back a festival woven deeply into its cultural soul — this time, with responsibility.
Expect colourful skies, laughter on rooftops, and a city glowing with springtime energy. But remember, it only works if everyone plays their part.
Whether it’s your first Basant or a long-awaited return, celebrate smartly, look out for each other, and let Lahore enjoy its colours again — safely, legally, and joyfully.
