Punjab Schools Await Official Winter Vacation Schedule as Cold Weather Sets In

Students and parents across Punjab are waiting for official word on the winter vacation schedule as colder weather begins to settle over the province. The Punjab government has not yet issued any notification or update confirming dates for the upcoming winter break.

Officials are expected to follow a pattern similar to last year, when winter vacations started in the second half of December and continued into January. Based on the previous schedule, schools could close around December 22, though the final dates will depend on an official announcement from the authorities.

The Punjab School Education Department issued its winter vacation notification on December 4, 2025, announcing holidays for all public and private schools from December 22, 2025, to January 10, 2026. The break was later extended because of severe cold waves and adverse weather conditions. In a notification issued on January 10, 2026, the department extended the holidays until January 18 and directed schools to reopen on January 19.

Weather is likely to play a role in shaping this year's schedule as well. The Pakistan Meteorological Department's November 9 forecast warned of fog and smog in several Punjab districts, including Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad and Multan, particularly during the morning hours.

The government has not announced any decision regarding winter vacations for 2026. Families and school administrations will need to wait for the official notification before finalising travel and academic plans.