Important Turkish Festivals

Turkey has a rich culture and a long history and is home to several important festivals, days and celebrations. Here are some of the most significant festivals in Turkey:

Eid al-Fitr: This festival, also known as Şeker Bayramı, marks the end of the month-long fast of Ramadan. It is a celebration time marked by feasting, gift-giving, and visits with friends and family.

Eid al-Adha: This festival, also known as Kurban Bayramı, is a time of sacrifice marked by the slaughter of animals, the distribution of meat to the poor, and visits with friends and family.

Hıdrellez: This festival, also known as the Festival of St. George, is celebrated on May 6th and is a time of renewal and new beginnings. The lighting of bonfires, the planting of trees, and the exchange of gifts mark it.

Nowruz: This festival, also known as the Persian New Year, is celebrated on March 21st and marks the beginning of spring. It is a time of renewal characterised by cleaning homes, exchanging gifts, and lighting fires.

Mevlana Festival: This festival, held in honour of the Sufi poet Rumi, is celebrated in the city of Konya in December. It is a time of music, dance, and spiritual reflection and is marked by the spinning of the whirling dervishes.

Istanbul Film Festival: This annual film festival is held in April and is one of Turkey's most significant film festivals. It showcases a wide range of films from around the world and attracts filmmakers, actors, and film fans from around the globe.

Istanbul Jazz Festival: This annual music festival is held in July and is one of Turkey's most significant jazz festivals. It features a wide range of jazz musicians worldwide and attracts music fans across the country.

International Istanbul Music Festival: This annual music festival is held in June and July and features a wide range of classical music concerts and performances. It is one of Turkey's most significant music festivals and attracts music lovers worldwide.