Independence Day: 15,000 may attend ‘Islamabad City Parade 2026’ at D-Chowk

ISLAMABAD: As many as 15,000 people are expected to attend the Islamabad City Parade 2026 at D-Chowk on Independence Day, where the capital administration has planned a major public celebration featuring police contingents, musical performances, cultural activities and a fireworks display.

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Administration have jointly organised the event, which will begin after 5:00pm on Friday, August 14. Entry will be free for the general public, while separate enclosures and seating arrangements have been made for families.

According to the CDA, around 6,000 seats have been arranged at the venue, while D-Chowk has sufficient capacity to accommodate up to 15,000 participants.

The programme will include displays by various contingents of Islamabad Police, performances by singers Nimra Mehra and Sahir Ali Bagga, folk and musical performances, colourful floats, mascots and a puppet show for children. A fireworks display will conclude the Independence Day celebrations.

Chairman CDA and Chief Commissioner Islamabad Sohail Ashraf visited D-Chowk along with senior officials on Thursday to review preparations and rehearsals for the event.

Speaking to the media, Ashraf said the parade marked the revival of a tradition associated with D-Chowk, recalling that national parades were held at the venue decades ago before being discontinued.

He said the revived parade had been designed as an open public event where citizens and families could participate in Independence Day celebrations.

Ashraf said routes leading to D-Chowk would remain open for people attending the parade and arrangements had been made to facilitate a large turnout.

Medical teams and camps will also be deployed at the venue, while separate seating arrangements have been made for families. Wheelchairs will be available for persons with disabilities who require assistance.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026