LAHORE: The yearly winter family festival began at Jilani Park on Thursday.

The monthlong event, which runs until Dec 17, was inaugurated by Punjab Senior Minister Mian Aslam Iqbal.

Storytelling, a book fair, an Icelandic model, a magic show, a mascot parade, traditional food competitions, trading, technical and vocational education, a Sufi night, a poetry competition, music, drumming, dance, Kabbadi, Naat, horseback riding, a flower exhibition, qawali, gymnastics, puppetry, and fireworks are all part of the festival.

“The PHA, working with the government and the private sector, has assured the provision of a number of activities in a bid to help the people enjoy by having some recreation,” said Mr Iqbal. “This huge recreational event has been held in Lahore after a long period of time.

He said he was grateful for the way the PHA administration, police, and other departments worked together to set up top-notch security, logistics, and administrative arrangements for the event.

He said that measures had been taken to formalise the PHA gardeners’ services and that 48 city grounds were being upgraded.

The event, according to Commissioner Amir Jan, will promote Pakistani and Punjabi culture alike.

Chief Minister Parvez Elahi promised that the government will occasionally ensure such activities in a video message for the winter family festival. The PHA has always played a major role in organising numerous colourful events, such as Jashan-e-Bahawaran, Sawan Mela, Canal festival, and Winter Festival, he said. “Allah Almighty has given us four weathers at which times,” he remarked.

He asked the PHA administration to use all available resources to make this event fantastic with the participation of a greater number of people. He encouraged the people to attend the winter celebration.

Published in Dawn, November 18th, 2022