Public Holidays in Pakistan – A Complete Guide (2025)
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Pakistan is a country rich in culture, religion, and traditions. Throughout the year, the nation observes a variety of public holidays that reflect its Islamic heritage, national pride, and historical milestones. These holidays not only offer citizens a break from routine life but also help preserve the values and identity of the Pakistani people. In this article, we explore the major public holidays in Pakistan, their significance, and dates for the year 2025.
- Kashmir Day (5th February)
Kashmir Solidarity Day is observed to show support for the people of Kashmir who are striving for their right to self-determination. On this day, rallies, speeches, and prayers are held across the country. It’s a day of national unity and remembrance.
- Pakistan Day (23rd March)
Known as “Yaum-e-Pakistan”, this day commemorates the Lahore Resolution of 1940, which laid the foundation for the creation of Pakistan. Military parades, flag hoisting ceremonies, and award distributions are conducted to honor this historical day.
- Labour Day (1st May)
Labour Day is celebrated globally, and in Pakistan, it is dedicated to the hardworking labor force. Workers’ rights rallies and seminars are held to promote fair labor practices and economic justice.
- Eid-ul-Fitr (Likely Dates: 30th March to 1st April 2025)
Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. It is one of the biggest religious festivals in the country, celebrated with prayers, charity, family gatherings, and feasts.
- Eid-ul-Adha (Likely Dates: 6th to 8th June 2025)
Also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, this day honors Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son. Muslims offer Qurbani (sacrifice of animals), distribute meat, and spend time with family.
- Independence Day (14th August)
Pakistan’s most patriotic day, celebrating its independence from British rule in 1947. Streets are decorated with flags, fireworks light up the skies, and people wear green and white to mark the occasion.
- Ashura – 9th and 10th Muharram (Likely: 6th & 7th July 2025)
Ashura is a significant day for Muslims, especially the Shia community, who mourn the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA). Processions, speeches, and special prayers are held across the country.
- Eid Milad-un-Nabi (Likely: 5th September 2025)
This day marks the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Religious gatherings, Milad processions, and decorations of mosques and homes are common during this blessed event.
- Quaid-e-Azam Day / Christmas (25th December)
This day celebrates the birth of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, and also aligns with Christmas, a public holiday for the Christian minority in Pakistan.
Optional Holidays (Optional Leaves)
In addition to public holidays, there are optional holidays that may be taken based on individual beliefs or sectarian practices, such as:
Basant Panchami
Holi
Diwali
Good Friday
Nowruz
These are mainly observed by minority communities and are optional for government and private employees.
Public Holidays in Pakistan (2025 Table)
Holiday Name Date(s) Day
Kashmir Day 5 February 2025 Wednesday
Pakistan Day 23 March 2025 Sunday
Labour Day 1 May 2025 Thursday
Eid-ul-Fitr 30 Mar – 1 Apr 2025* Sun – Tue
Eid-ul-Adha 6 – 8 June 2025* Fri – Sun
Independence Day 14 August 2025 Thursday
Ashura (9 & 10 Muharram) 6 – 7 July 2025* Sun – Mon
Eid Milad-un-Nabi 5 September 2025* Friday
Quaid-e-Azam Day/Christmas 25 December 2025 Thursday
Dates marked with an asterisk () are subject to moon sighting.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Pakistan are a blend of religious reverence, national pride, and cultural heritage. They offer time for reflection, celebration, and unity. Whether it’s Eid celebrations, national day parades, or remembrance events, each holiday carries a deep significance and plays a vital role in keeping the spirit of the nation alive.
