A Historic Return: Horse and Cattle Show Lahore 2025
After a 35-year gap, the Horse and Cattle Show Lahore 2025 returned with grandeur at Fortress Stadium. The prestigious event was officially inaugurated by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. This cultural festival celebrates Pakistan’s rich agricultural and livestock traditions, attracting spectators from across the country and beyond.
The 16-day Horse and Cattle Show set a record with the participation of millions of citizens in 20 major events. The presence of thousands of families, including children, at every event doubled the excitement. Dozens of renowned international athletes from 13 international teams participated in the Horse and Cattle Show. Twenty players from Turkey, Dubai, Baku, Ukraine, and Ethiopia, among others, participated, with foreign players calling the event outstanding.
Citizens also enjoyed the Shandur Polo matches for the first time in Lahore. At the Dog Show in Jilani Park, German Shepherds and other high-breed dogs were the center of attraction for the public, especially children. Foreign teams participated in the 7-day tent pegging competitions. There were thrilling competitions of Buzkashi, archery, and horse riding.
Renowned artists performed at the Punjab Cultural Nights during the Horse and Cattle Show, and a cultural night featuring the cultural activities of Gilgit-Baltistan was also celebrated. Animals with high milk production were also presented in the competition at the Horse and Cattle Show.
The Parks and Horticulture Authority organized a two-day special flower exhibition. Thousands of citizens flocked to the flower exhibition. A children’s festival was also celebrated in Bagh-e-Jinnah for the entertainment of children. The special Music and Food Festival in Jilani Park featured a variety of traditional dishes. Hundreds of spectators watched the vintage car show, which displayed rare and vintage cars from years ago. Thousands of families participated in the Family Cyclothon from Main Boulevard to Bagh-e-Jinnah.
In addition, there were thrilling competitions of the Rustam-e-Punjab Dangal at Minar-e-Pakistan. Renowned singers enthralled the audience at the Sufi Festival at Lahore Fort. The Punjab Industry and Artisan exhibition related to industries was also held at the Lahore Expo Center. The closing ceremony of the Horse and Cattle Show will also feature a unique demonstration of flame and tent pegging.
Colorful displays of drone shows and fireworks will be presented. Hundreds of drummers will perform their unique art for the first time at the closing ceremony. The Rustam-e-Punjab show will also be presented to pay tribute to the art of wrestling. Famous choreographer will present the traditional games of Punjab. راحت فتح علی خان, عارف لوہار and other artists will also perform. The closing ceremony will be broadcast live on Pakistan Television.
A Spectacle of Colors and Traditions
CM Maryam Nawaz inaugurated the event digitally with a handprint, expressing her deep love for Punjab and wishing for the province’s prosperity. A traditional buggy ride carried the PM and CM to the salute platform, where four horsemen sought their permission to begin the event. The crowd cheered as the show officially commenced, showcasing a grand display of Pakistan’s equestrian and livestock heritage.
Exciting Performances and Competitions
The featured an array of exciting activities, bringing together international tent pegging teams from Pakistan, Kuwait, Norway, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the United States. Archery teams from Pakistan, Iran, Türkiye, and Tajikistan also participated, demonstrating their precision and skill.
A livestock parade followed, featuring dancing camels, elite Nili Ravi and Sahiwal buffalo breeds, and unique sheep and goat species like Lohi, Mundri, Faisalabadi, and Gujrati betel goats. Enthusiastic spectators enjoyed the dancing goats and elaborate regional cultural floats, representing different provinces.
International and Cultural Highlights
Adding a global touch, Slovak artists performed stunning laser light tricks, while a Macedonian band delighted the audience with Punjabi folk songs. The energy soared with regional dance performances, hundreds of drummers, and a drummer playing six drums simultaneously, stealing the spotlight.
A dervish dance, choreographed by Wahab Shah, mesmerized the audience, followed by an exhilarating live concert by Atif Aslam. As a spectacular finale, drones illuminated the sky with iconic symbols, including the Pakistani flag and Minar-e-Pakistan.
The 16-day Horse and Cattle Show, held from February 9th to 24th, was a resounding success, bringing joy to citizens and showcasing the vibrant colors of Punjab. The 20 major events attracted thousands of families, including children, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. The participation of 13 international teams enhanced Pakistan and Punjab’s global image. After many years, citizens in Lahore had the opportunity to witness exciting competitions like Shandur Polo, the 7-day tent pegging event, Buzkashi, archery, and thrilling horse riding displays.
The show highlighted Punjab’s Sufi traditions, promoted cultural activities from Gilgit-Baltistan, and offered a delightful array of traditional foods. A children’s festival, a dog show, exhibitions of flowers and rare vintage cars, and the exhilarating Rustam-e-Punjab Dangal (wrestling competition) all added to the enjoyment of the Horse and Cattle Show.
Public Enthusiasm and CM’s Interaction
A massive crowd of families and youth attended the event, applauding the cultural showcases. CM Maryam Nawaz mingled with the attendees, receiving warm greetings and resounding chants. She reaffirmed her commitment to supporting underprivileged families, highlighting various government initiatives for community welfare.
Punjab Dhi Rani Program and Social Welfare Initiatives
During the event, CM Maryam Nawaz announced the successful completion of Phase 1 of the Punjab Dhi Rani Program, which facilitated 1,500 mass marriages. She confirmed that applications for another 1,500 marriages under Phase II have begun. Eligible families can submit applications via the official portal www.cmp.punjab.gov.pk or visit district Deputy Director Social Welfare offices. A dedicated helpline (1312) is also available for inquiries.
To support newlywed couples, the Punjab government will provide:
- Rs100,000 in gift money via ATM cards
- Furniture, clothes, and household essentials
- Free food for the bride, groom, and close relatives at the mass marriage ceremony
Maryam Nawaz emphasized that uplifting marginalized communities remains a key priority. She reiterated her dedication to the well-being of Punjab’s daughters, calling it a valuable cultural tradition.
What is the Meaning of Horse and Cattle Show?
The Horse and Cattle Show is a national event celebrating agriculture, livestock, and equestrian traditions. It showcases Pakistan’s best cattle breeds, horse-riding competitions, tent pegging, and regional cultural performances.
Why Do We Celebrate the Horse and Cattle Show?
This event promotes Pakistan’s livestock industry, encourages agricultural advancements, and preserves equestrian sports traditions. It also brings international recognition to the country’s rich rural and farming heritage.
In Which City Was the Horse and Cattle Show Conducted?
The Horse and Cattle Show Lahore 2025 was conducted in Fortress Stadium, Lahore, a historical venue known for hosting grand national events.
Which Activities Can You Spot at the Horse and Cattle Show?
- Tent pegging and horse-riding competitions
- Livestock parade featuring elite breeds
- Regional and international dance performances
- Live concerts by famous Pakistani artists
- Laser light shows and drone displays
- Exhibitions of traditional crafts and cultural floats
Horse and Cattle Show 2025 Tickets Price
The ticket prices for Horse and Cattle Show Lahore 2025 vary based on seating arrangements and VIP access. Visitors can check the latest ticket details on official event websites and ticketing platforms.
Final Thoughts
The Horse and Cattle Show Lahore 2025 was a resounding success, bringing together tradition, culture, and modern entertainment. It not only celebrated Pakistan’s agricultural heritage but also showcased its global appeal. With an enthusiastic crowd, spectacular performances, and government-backed social welfare initiatives, this event marked a new era for cultural festivities in Pakistan

Fahad Munir is a seasoned journalist and editor at Awam PK, specializing in sharing accurate and timely news, job updates, and educational information to the Pakistani audience.