The government has declared a nationwide public holiday on May 1 (Friday) in observance of Labour Day.
On this occasion, all government and private offices, educational institutions, and markets will remain closed across the country to honour the contributions of workers and labourers.
However, the public will get to enjoy a three-day weekend, with May 1 being Friday, followed by the Saturday-Sunday weekend holidays.
Labour Day is observed annually in Pakistan as a symbol of solidarity with the working class and to promote their rights and welfare.
Earlier this year, the federal government had officially announced the schedule of public and optional holidays for the year 2026, covering major national events as well as religious festivals of both Muslims and minority communities across Pakistan.
According to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division, key public holidays will include Kashmir Day on February 5, Pakistan Day on March 23, Labour Day on May 1, Independence Day on August 14, Allama Iqbal Day on November 9, and Quaid-e-Azam Day along with Christmas on December 25.
For religious observances, Eid-ul-Fitr (1st Shawal 1447 AH) is expected to be observed from March 21 to 23 (Saturday to Monday), subject to moon sighting. Eid-ul-Azha (10th Zil Haj 1447 AH) holidays are scheduled from May 27 to 29 (Wednesday to Friday), while Ashura (9th and 10th Muharram 1448 AH) will fall on June 24 and 25 (Wednesday and Thursday).
Youm-e-Takbeer will be marked on May 28, and Eid Milad-un-Nabi (12th Rabi-ul-Awwal 1448 AH) is expected on August 25, also subject to moon sighting. Additionally, December 26 will be observed as a holiday exclusively for the Christian community, following Christmas Day.
The notification also includes a list of optional holidays for minority communities, such as Holi, Diwali, Easter, Baisakhi, Durga Puja, and Dussehra, along with the birthdays of religious figures including Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Lord Zoroaster.
