Basant, Pakistan’s colourful kite festival, is coming back to Lahore in 2027. The date, however, has changed more than once. The latest reports say it will now be held on 12 to 14 March 2027, but that is still waiting for approval from the Punjab cabinet. Here is everything known so far about the dates, the rules, the safety measures and what you can expect.
Basant 2027 Dates: What Has Been Announced
The dates have changed three times, so it is worth following the timeline:
- 18 August 2026: Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced Basant Lahore 2027 for 12 to 14 March 2027, a three-day festival.
- 30 September 2026: The chief minister approved a 10-day festival from 29 January to 7 February 2027, with a pause on 5 February for Kashmir Solidarity Day. She described it as a way to welcome the new year and promote Punjab’s culture.
- 17 October 2026: A notification from the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Lahore moved the dates back to 12 to 14 March 2027. Reports say the new dates are subject to approval by the provincial cabinet, so the final schedule is not yet confirmed. No reason for the change was given.
Because the dates are still moving, do not book travel or hotels on the basis of a single report. Wait for the cabinet’s final decision and an official announcement from the Punjab government.
A Short History of Basant
Basant marks the arrival of spring, and Lahore has long been its centre. Kite flying and kite making were banned in Punjab in 2005 after more than 25 people died. The ban was relaxed for short periods in 2006 and 2007, then reimposed in 2007. By 2024, records showed more than 2,020 people had died in kite-related incidents, and more than 90% of those deaths were blamed on chemical-coated kite strings, according to The Express Tribune.
In early 2026, the Punjab government suspended the 21-year ban by an ordinance and allowed Lahore to hold Basant from 6 to 8 February under set conditions. The festival drew citizens and foreign diplomats, but it also had a cost. Official Home Department figures reported 17 deaths and 160 injuries, and sources told The Express Tribune the death toll may have been as high as 21. Most deaths were from rooftop falls.
The New Law and Penalties
The Punjab Assembly passed the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Bill 2025 on 25 December. As reported:
- It bans metal wire, nylon string and chemical or glass-coated string, known as manjha.
- It bans strings that do not have official permission.
- It sets penalties for flying, making, storing or selling banned kites and string.
- Offenders face three to five years in prison, a fine of up to Rs2 million, or both. The offence is non-bailable, and police can arrest without a warrant.
The Home Department has reported more than 8,000 arrests and over 7,200 cases for kite-flying violations during 2026.
Licensed Kite Makers
The Lahore district administration says more than 5,200 kite and string manufacturers in Lahore and nearby districts have been licensed for Basant 2027. More than 6,000 people applied. Applicants face field checks and safety inspections, and no-objection certificates are issued only after the checks. Registration is run through a dedicated online Basant portal. Buy kites and string only from licensed sellers.
Rooftop and Safety Rules
Safety rules announced by the Punjab government in May 2026 are due to be fully in place by 30 December 2026. They include:
- Kite flying is allowed only on strong, secure rooftops with boundary walls at least three and a half feet high. Overcrowding is not allowed.
- Parents must supervise children at all times, and children must not go near rooftop edges without an adult.
- Running, jumping, hanging from edges and aggressively chasing kites are prohibited.
- Loud music, DJ systems and noise-making devices are banned.
- First aid kits must be available at every location, and people should call Rescue 1122 in an emergency.
- Building owners and organisers are held personally and jointly responsible for accidents or violations.
Reports also say couriers and transport services are banned from carrying kite materials into Lahore. Transporters caught bringing illegal items from other districts face a case, suspension of their driving licence and confiscation of goods. Residents can report suspected illegal transport to the Deputy Commissioner’s control room at 0307-0002345.
Is Basant Allowed Everywhere in Punjab?
No. In 2026, kite flying remained banned outside Lahore, even during the festival. The reports on 2027 say that kite flying will be permitted in Lahore on the festival days. Check the official announcement for whether other cities will be included, and do not assume that kite flying is legal outside the approved area or dates.
The Debate: Culture, Business and Safety
Supporters say Basant is an important part of Lahore’s culture, supports thousands of kite makers, sellers and small businesses and attracts visitors. They argue that strict regulation and licensing can make the festival safer.
Critics point to the deaths and injuries from rooftop falls and dangerous string, and say that the risk of harm remains even with new rules. They argue that enforcement during a mass event is difficult.
The government says the new law, licensing and stronger safety arrangements are meant to answer these concerns. How well they work will be clear only after the festival.
How to Stay Safe This Basant
- Use only licensed kites and string. Never use metal wire, nylon or glass-coated string.
- Fly kites only from safe rooftops and keep away from the edges.
- Keep children under adult supervision.
- Avoid riding a motorbike near kite-flying areas, and cover your neck if you must travel.
- Do not fire guns or use fireworks in celebration.
- Keep Rescue 1122 handy for emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Basant 2027?
The latest report, from 17 October 2026, says 12 to 14 March 2027 in Lahore, subject to provincial cabinet approval. An earlier plan was 29 January to 7 February 2027.
Where will it be held?
Lahore. Reports do not name specific venues.
Is kite flying legal in all of Punjab?
No. It was allowed only in Lahore during the 2026 festival, and the reports for 2027 also point to Lahore. Check the official notification.
What is banned?
Metal wire, nylon string, and chemical or glass-coated string, as well as unlicensed strings.
What are the penalties?
Three to five years in prison, a fine of up to Rs2 million, or both, under the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Bill 2025, according to The Express Tribune.
Can I buy kites anywhere?
Only from licensed makers and sellers.
Basant 2027 promises colour and celebration, but safety is what will decide its success. Follow official announcements for the final dates, buy only licensed supplies and keep every rooftop safe.
