Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced a three-day Basant festival, which will be held in Lahore from March 12 to 14, 2027, after a “successful” return last year. 

In a X post, CM Maryam said Lahore will once again come alive with colour, culture, festivity, music, energy and legendary hospitality.

Addressing the youth across Punjab and Pakistan, Maryam said: “This celebration is for you; come together, create memories, and make Lahore shine with your energy and spirit!”

She also urged overseas Pakistanis and “international guests” to mark their calendars and come home to the warmth, colours and festivities of Lahore.

“Insha’Allah, together we will make Basant 2027 another great success and a celebration to remember!” the CM added.

She told the Pakistani diaspora that Lahore would be waiting to welcome them to the special event.

Lahore celebrated the first Basant festival in more than two decades last February after the Punjab government had lifted a ban on kite-flying.

The three-day festivities, allowed under strict rules, had brought a festive buzz to the provincial capital, as roads and streets lit up with lights and decorations amid rooftop gatherings and celebrations continuing late into the night.

The Punjab government had taken several measures to facilitate the masses on the occasion, including a free transport service.  

Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb had termed the successful Basant celebrations a victory for Lahore and Pakistan, adding that an even more vibrant Basant would be seen next year.

Over the three days, she had said that around two million people used the transport facility, while one million vehicles entered Punjab.