The Punjab government has officially announced the winter vacation schedule 2025 for schools across the province. According to the Punjab Education Department, all public and private educational institutions will observe the winter holidays from December 23, 2025, to January 10, 2026.
Schools will reopen on Monday, January 13, 2026, after a much-awaited winter break that comes as a relief to students, parents, and teachers amid cold weather and worsening smog conditions.
Official Winter Vacation Schedule 2025 for Schools in Punjab
| 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 applies uniformly to all public and private schools across Punjab, ensuring that the entire province follows a consistent academic calendar.
Applies to Both Government and Private Institutions
The Punjab School Education Department (SED) has confirmed that this schedule is binding for all educational institutions, including:
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Government schools
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Private schools
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Colleges offering school-level education
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Non-formal and special education centers
This unified schedule helps synchronize academic planning and avoids confusion among parents and school managements.
Revised School Timings Due to Smog
Amid the severe smog crisis affecting major cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala, the government has also introduced revised school timings to protect students from morning air pollution.
New School Timings (Effective November 3, 2025):
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All schools (public and private) will open at 8:45 AM instead of earlier timings.
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This revised schedule will remain in effect until January 31, 2026.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), early morning traffic is one of the key contributors to smog. Delaying school hours helps reduce vehicular emissions and provides a healthier environment for students.
“By easing the morning rush-hour traffic, we aim to reduce pollution levels and safeguard children’s health,”
said Dr. Imran Hameed Sheikh, DG of the Environmental Protection Agency.
Strict Action Against Violating Schools
The Punjab government has issued strict directives to ensure compliance with the revised school timings and winter vacation schedule.
Schools found violating the orders could face heavy fines ranging from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 1 million, depending on the nature and frequency of violations.
The Education Department and EPA teams will conduct regular inspections to ensure that all schools adhere to the official guidelines.
Why the Extended Winter Break?
The decision for the December 23–January 10 winter break was made after consultation between the Education Department and the Environmental Protection Agency.
The move aims to:
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Protect students from harsh cold waves and smog exposure
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Minimize respiratory illnesses common during winter months
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Reduce traffic congestion and pollution levels during peak hours
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Provide relief to students and families during the holiday season
Experts have welcomed the decision, noting that the winter break will help improve attendance and focus when schools reopen.
Important Points for Parents and Students
Before schools close for winter break, here’s what parents and students should remember:
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Complete all homework and assessments before the holidays begin.
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Schools will not allow early closure before December 23.
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Reopening is mandatory on January 13, 2026 — absentees may face attendance penalties.
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Students are encouraged to avoid outdoor activities in heavy smog conditions.
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Parents should stay updated through official school notifications and Punjab Education Department announcements.
A Step Toward Healthier and Smarter Policies
Punjab’s winter holidays and adjusted school timings show a responsible approach by the government toward student health and climate challenges.
By combining education management with environmental safety, Punjab sets an example for other provinces to follow.
The initiative aligns with the government’s broader strategy to combat air pollution, promote public health, and ensure academic consistency across the region.
Final Thoughts
The Punjab Winter Holidays 2025 schedule ensures that students and teachers enjoy a safe, refreshing, and healthy winter break. With schools closed from December 23, 2025, to January 10, 2026, families can plan their holidays while staying mindful of smog-related precautions.
As Punjab continues to prioritize student welfare and environmental safety, this year’s winter break represents a well-balanced step toward education and well-being.