Independence Day (Youm-e-Azadi)

14 August

Pakistan

Why this date

Pakistan became independent from British rule on 14 August 1947.

About the day

At midnight between 14 and 15 August 1947, power was transferred to the new Dominion of Pakistan, with Quaid-e-Azam as Governor-General and Liaquat Ali Khan as Prime Minister. Celebrations include flag-hoisting, a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in the provincial capitals, and the change of guards at the mausoleums of Jinnah and Iqbal.

Observed by

Government of Pakistan (public holiday)