The Punjab government has officially announced the winter holidays schedule 2025 for all schools across the province. As per the notification from the Punjab Education Department, both public and private schools will remain closed from December 23, 2025, to January 10, 2026.
Schools will reopen on Monday, January 13, 2026, after a well-deserved winter break. This decision has come as a relief for students, parents, and teachers, especially due to the cold weather and rising smog levels across Punjab.
Official Winter Vacation Schedule 2025 for Punjab Schools
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Start of Winter Holidays | December 23, 2025 (Tuesday) |
| End of Winter Holidays | January 10, 2026 (Saturday) |
| Schools Reopen | January 13, 2026 (Monday) |
This schedule will be applied to all public and private schools in Punjab to ensure the same academic calendar throughout the province.
Applies to All Educational Institutions
The School Education Department (SED) has confirmed that these holidays will apply to:
- 🏫 Government schools
- 🏫 Private schools
- 🏫 Colleges offering school-level classes
- 🏫 Non-formal and special education centers
This unified schedule will help schools, teachers, and parents plan lessons and holidays smoothly without confusion.
Revised School Timings Due to Smog
Due to the severe smog problem in cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala, the Punjab government has also announced new school timings to protect students from polluted morning air.
New School Timings (Effective from November 3, 2025):
- All schools (public and private) will open at 8:45 AM instead of earlier hours.
- These timings will remain effective until January 31, 2026.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), delaying school hours helps reduce morning traffic pollution and improves air quality for students.
“By easing the morning rush-hour traffic, we aim to reduce pollution levels and protect children’s health,”
— said Dr. Imran Hameed Sheikh, Director General of the EPA.
Strict Action Against Non-Complying Schools
The Punjab government has warned that schools violating the official winter vacation or new timing schedule will face strict penalties.
- Fines may range from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 1 million, depending on the violation.
- Education Department and EPA teams will conduct random inspections to ensure all schools follow the official orders.
Why the Extended Winter Break?
The extended break from December 23 to January 10 was finalized after discussions between the Education Department and the Environmental Protection Agency.
The decision was made to:
- 🧣 Protect students from cold weather and smog exposure
- 😷 Reduce respiratory and seasonal illnesses
- 🚗 Minimize traffic and pollution during early hours
- 🎉 Provide relief to students and families during the festive season
Education experts have praised the move, saying it will help students return to school fresh and healthy.
Important Points for Parents and Students
Before schools close for the holidays, parents and students should keep these points in mind:
- 📚 Complete all homework and tests before December 23.
- 🚫 No school is allowed to close before the official date.
- 📅 Classes will resume on January 13, 2026 — attendance is mandatory.
- 😷 Avoid outdoor activities during heavy smog days.
- 📢 Stay informed through official school notices or Punjab Education Department updates.
A Smart and Healthy Initiative
The Punjab government’s decision to extend holidays and adjust school timings shows care for both education and public health.
This move sets a strong example for other provinces to follow, combining academic planning with environmental responsibility.
It supports the government’s broader goal of reducing air pollution, protecting students, and maintaining consistency in the school calendar.
Final Thoughts
The Punjab Winter Holidays 2025 schedule ensures that students enjoy a safe, healthy, and refreshing break with their families.
With schools closed from December 23, 2025, to January 10, 2026, everyone can enjoy the season while being careful about smog-related health issues.
By focusing on student welfare and clean air, Punjab continues to move toward a smarter and safer education system.
