What is our national festival? It’s a question many students, teachers, and even curious readers ask when learning about Pakistan’s heritage. While our country celebrates various religious, cultural, and public holidays throughout the year, one event holds the highest national significance: Independence Day on 14 August.
Let’s explore these festivals one by one their dates, why we celebrate them, and what they mean for the people of Pakistan.
Islamic Festivals in Pakistan
Islamic festivals in Pakistan follow the lunar Hijri calendar and are deeply rooted in religious practices. These occasions bring communities together in prayer, charity, remembrance, and celebration.
| Day | Month | Festival | Description |
| 1 | Muharram | New Islamic Year | Marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar. |
| 10 | Muharram | Ashura | Commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain at Karbala. |
| 12 | Rabi’ al-awwal | Eid Milad-un-Nabi | Celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). |
| 27 | Rajab | Miraj-un-Nabi | The Prophet’s night journey and ascension. |
| 14/15 | Sha’ban | Shab-e-Barat | A night of forgiveness and prayer. |
| 21–29 | Ramadan | Laylat al-Qadr | The Night of PowerQuran was revealed. |
| 29/30 | Ramadan | Chaand Raat | Night before Eid, full of celebration and shopping. |
| 1 | Shawwal | Eid ul-Fitr | Celebrates the end of Ramadan with prayers and feasts. |
| 9 | Dhu al-Hijjah | Day of Arafah | A key day during Hajj; observed with fasting and prayer. |
| 10 | Dhu al-Hijjah | Eid al-Adha | Honors Prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice. |
Public Holidays in Pakistan
These holidays are observed nationwide to honor our heroes, milestones, and national values.
- Pakistan Day (23 March): Commemorates the Lahore Resolution of 1940, a key step toward independence.
- Youm-e-Takbir (28 May): Marks Pakistan’s successful nuclear tests in 1998.
- Independence Day (14 August): This is our national festival, celebrating the creation of Pakistan in 1947.
- Defence Day (6 September): Honors military efforts during the 1965 war with India.
- Air Force Day (7 September): Celebrates the achievements of the Pakistan Air Force.
- Navy Day (8 September): Commemorates the Navy’s role in the 1965 war.
- Iqbal Day (9 November): Pays tribute to national poet and philosopher Allama Iqbal.
- Quaid-e-Azam Day (25 December): Celebrates the birthday of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, founder of Pakistan.
What Is Our National Festival?
Among all these events, 14 August Independence Day stands out as our national festival. It represents our identity as a free and sovereign nation. This day is celebrated with:
- Flag-raising ceremonies
- Fireworks and parades
- National songs and cultural events
- Special prayers for the country’s peace and prosperity
It’s not only a public holiday but also a deeply emotional day for every Pakistani, young or old.
Festivals in Pakistan
In addition to religious and public holidays, Pakistan celebrates various festivals that reflect its cultural, literary, and seasonal diversity.
Notable Festivals
- Chaand Raat: A joyful evening before Eid ul-Fitr marked by henna, shopping, and family gatherings.
- Iqbal Day: Observed with seminars and poetry readings to honor Iqbal’s vision.
- Quaid-e-Azam Day: Held in remembrance of Jinnah’s leadership and sacrifices.
- Pakistan Flower Show: A floral exhibition promoting horticulture and nature, held annually in Karachi.
- Yom-e Bab ul-Islam: Marks the arrival of Islam in the subcontinent.
- Future Fest Pakistan: A large-scale tech and startup event held in major cities.
Literary Festivals in Pakistan
These festivals bring together readers, writers, and thinkers from all over the country:
- Islamabad Literature Festival
- Karachi Literature Festival
- Lahore Literary Festival
Each event includes book launches, panel discussions, poetry readings, and educational activities.
Conclusion:
So, what is our national festival? Without a doubt, it is Independence Day on 14 August a day that celebrates our freedom, our identity, and the vision of our founding leaders. While Pakistan is rich in festivals of all kinds, this national event brings the entire country together in the spirit of patriotism.
Understanding our festivals helps us stay connected to our culture, history, and shared values. Whether it’s Eid, Defence Day, or the colorful Jashn-e-Baharaan, each event plays a role in shaping Pakistan’s unique identity but Independence Day remains our true national festival.
FAQs: What Is Our National Festival
1. What is our national festival in Pakistan?
Our national festival is Independence Day, celebrated annually on 14 August. It commemorates the day Pakistan gained independence from British rule in 1947.
2. Why is 14 August considered a national festival?
14 August symbolizes Pakistan’s freedom, national identity, and unity. It marks the beginning of a sovereign nation based on Islamic values and democratic ideals.
3. How do people celebrate Independence Day in Pakistan?
People celebrate by hoisting the national flag, singing patriotic songs, attending ceremonies, organizing parades, and decorating homes and streets with green and white.
