Best Festivals in Turkey: 18 Events Every Tourist Should Experience

Turkey is a country full of vibrant culture and unforgettable celebrations. From thrilling camel fights and mesmerizing dervish dances to colorful flower festivals and spectacular hot air balloon events, the nation offers a variety of experiences for every traveler.

If you’re planning a trip, here’s a guide to the best festivals in Turkey, including dates and highlights, so you can easily plan your visit and immerse yourself in the country’s unique traditions and lively festivities.

18 Turkey Festivals You Don’t Want to Miss!

Here are some of the top festivals in Turkey this year that you must experience. Turkey is an Islamic state with a distinctive culture that values its historical traditions and festivals. 

Izmir World Fair

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Izmir World Fair is one of the best festivals in Turkey, showcasing trade, culture, and entertainment. Held annually, it attracts visitors from around the globe with exhibitions, concerts, and events that highlight Turkey’s diversity and foster international connections.

• Location: Kültürpark İzmir,Turkey 

• Date & Time: August 29th and September 9th (12 PM – 11 PM)

• Highlights: Concerts, theater performances, film screenings, street performances, talks, and exhibitions

• Specialties: Great for brand building, networking, and fun concerts 

• Pro Tip: Arrive early to avoid the rush in parking areas & to get good spots in concerts and events 

Camel Wrestling Festival 

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Camel Wrestling Festival is a truly unique and traditional festival in Turkey. Powerful camels face off in a test of strength, while locals and tourists enjoy the lively festivities. Experiencing this event offers an authentic glimpse into Anatolian culture.

• Location: Different villages on the Aegean Coast, Turkey

• Date & Time: Held in three months of the year – till March 

• Highlights: Singers, village bands, drinks, and the best way to experience local Turkish festivals 

• Specialties: Local alcohol, men placing bets, singing songs with instruments 

• Pro Tip: Take a local driver and guide to attend the camel wrestling festival 

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Mevlana Whirling Dervishes Festival

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Mevlana Whirling Dervishes Festival honors the Sufi mystic Rumi and is among the most spiritual must-see festivals in Turkey. Visitors witness mesmerizing whirling dervish ceremonies, where participants perform the Sema dance, symbolizing a journey toward enlightenment and union with God.

• Location: Konya, Turkey

• Date & Time: December

• Highlights: This festival is for sufi-lovers; learn about the history of Sufism and visit the Mevlana Museum, once Rumi’s dervish lodge.

• Specialties: It is a spiritual Sufi festival set in the ancient city of Konya. 

• Pro Tip: Book your tickets in advance to get the best seats. You can buy from GetYourGuide.

Tulip Festival

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Istanbul Tulip Festival celebrates Turkey’s iconic tulips and transforms the city into a colorful paradise. Parks and gardens bloom with vibrant displays, making it one of the most visually stunning famous festivals in Turkey.

• Location: Different parks in Istanbul celebrate this festival. You can visit Emirgan Park (120 different varieties of tulips); Gülhane Park (tulips and outdoor cafes); Sultanahmet Square (has a beautiful tulip carpet)

• Date & Time: April to May 

• Highlights: The floral festival has beautiful displays of tulips and hosts traditional arts workshops, including calligraphy, painting, and glass blowing.

• Specialties: Live music, picnic spots, floral displays, and a magnificent spot to make memories with your families and friends. 

• Pro Tip: Visit the parks on weekdays and carry sunscreen, an umbrella, or a hat to stay out of direct sunlight.

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Hot Air Balloon Festival

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Hot Air Balloon Festival in Cappadocia is a breathtaking festival and celebration in Turkey. Hundreds of colorful balloons rise at sunrise against the region’s unique rock formations, creating a magical experience for visitors over three unforgettable days.

• Location: Cappadocia, Turkey

• Date & Time: August 11th, 12th, and 13th

• Highlights: Sunrise Balloon Rides, Night Glow Events, Tethered Balloon Rides, Cultural performances

• Specialties: A romantic, photogenic experience where Cappadocia’s landscapes are covered in colorful, gigantic balloons. The price starts at €250 to €300.

• Pro Tip: The festival is very popular, so book your balloon tours in advance.

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Mesir Paste (Macunu) Festival

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Mesir Paste Festival is a historical and cultural traditional festival in Turkey. During this event, chefs prepare mesir macunu, a healing paste, which is blessed and scattered from mosque minarets. The festival attracts locals and tourists alike, blending faith, culture, and community.

• Location: Manisa, Turkey

• Date & Time: March 

• Highlights: Live orchestra playing Ottoman music, people dressed in traditional attire

• Specialties: The people compete to catch the paste and believe it brings them luck

• Pro Tip: Take a local guide to attend the festival 

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The Javelin Game (Cirit Oyunu)

Javelin Game Festival is a thrilling equestrian spectacle, featuring skilled riders throwing javelins while showcasing agility and horsemanship. Held in Belek, Antalya, it is a must-see festival in Turkey for sports enthusiasts and culture seekers.

• Location: Held in various regions such as Söğüt, Erzurum, Kars, Antalya and Bayburt, Turkey

• Date & Time: Throughout the year

• Highlights: A fierce traditional sport with horseriders throwing javelins at opponents 

• Specialties: Watch Turkey’s national sporting event in its prime.

• Pro Tip: Buy the tickets at the venue 

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Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Festival

Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival is recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event and is one of the oldest wrestling tournaments in the world. Wrestlers covered in olive oil compete for the golden belt, making it one of the most historic and famous festivals in Turkey.

• Location: Sarayiçi, Edirne, Turkey

• Date & Time: June-July

• Highlights: Traditional music, dancing and feasts 

• Specialties: It is the oldest traditional festival that dates back to 600 years. 

• Pro Tip: Take a guide to navigate this festival 

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Hıdırellez Festival

Hıdırellez Festival celebrates the arrival of spring and good fortune. Hıdırellez is a joyous occasion marked by festivities, music, and dancing. People gather outdoors, often picnicking and making wishes for the coming year. The festival of Hıdırellez was added to the UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage.

• Location: Edirne, Turkey

• Date & Time: April – May

• Highlights: Fire jumping, making wishes, dancing, singing, feasts with special Turkish cuisine, giving alms, animal sacrifices, fasting. 

• Specialties: The festival is celebrated with rituals, music, dance, and food

• Pro Tip: You can celebrate the festival with a local Turkish family and learn about it from them. 

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Turkish Republic Day

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The most important national holiday, Republic Day, commemorates the establishment of the Republic of Turkey. Celebrations include parades, fireworks, and patriotic events across the country. It is a public holiday, so you may be unable to find all the restaurants, cafes, and activities open on this day. 

• Location: Capital and different parts of the country, Turkey

• Date & Time: 29th October 

• Highlights: Parades, People pay homage by placing wreaths to Atatürk’s monuments or visiting Atatürk’s mausoleum (Turkish founder), dancing, singing 

• Specialties: You must visit Ankara, the capital city, specifically to Atatürk’s Mausoleum (Anıtkabir), and Taksim Square in Istanbul to witness the Republic Day celebrations.

• Pro Tip: Carry your water bottles and be prepared for the crowd 

Ankara International Music Festival

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The Ankara International Music Festival is organized by the Sevda-Cenap And Music Foundation. It is one of the best music festivals in Turkey. It offers a platform for cultural exchange and celebrates the power of music. You can enjoy classical music, baroque music, dance, and jazz. 

• Location: It is held at different venues in Ankara, Turkey. Ministry of National Education Council Hall, Presidential Symphony Orchestra Hall, Çankaya Stage, and Bilkent Concert Hall.

• Date & Time: April 

• Highlights: Orchestras, dances, various music performances 

• Specialties: Artists and musicians from Turkey, Japan, Germany, the Czech Republic, Croatia, Russia, Hungary, Georgia, Norway, Azerbaijan, France, and Italy come together.

• Pro Tip: Book your tickets in advance 

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Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival

The Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival is a renowned movie fest in Turkey. A prominent film festival that showcases Turkish and international films, attracting filmmakers, actors, and film enthusiasts. The festival promotes cinematic arts and fosters cultural dialogue. There are award ceremonies, competitions, movie screenings, and workshops that you can attend. 

• Location: Antalya, Turkey

• Date & Time: October

• Highlights: Film screenings, awards, workshops, networking 

• Specialties: It is considered the second-most prestigious film festival in Turkey

• Pro Tip: Antalya can get hot, so bring sunscreen and a hat.

Bodrum International Ballet Festival

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Bodrum International Ballet Festival is set against the backdrop of the ancient Bodrum Castle. This festival features performances by renowned ballet companies and dancers. It offers a unique cultural experience combining history and art. 

• Location: Bodrum Castle Kuzey Hendeği Stage, Turkey

• Date & Time: August

• Highlights: You can watch famous ballet performances like Swan Lake, The Great Gatsby, Zorba The Greek and Rosegarden.

• Specialties: A chance to witness the great ballet performances

• Pro Tip: Buy your tickets in advance 

Istanbul Rooftop Festival

The Istanbul Rooftop Festival is a fun party festival for all age groups. It is a trendy festival where nine different cafes and venues participate. It transforms Istanbul’s rooftops into vibrant event spaces; this festival offers a unique blend of music, food, and entertainment.

• Location: Various venues such as B. Heaven Roof – J.W. Marriott Istanbul Bosphorus Sky Karaköy – Kastel Teras – Klein Garten

• Date & Time: September

• Highlights: Music, dancing, singing, feasts and 

• Specialties: A fun rooftop party where you can enjoy local music, drinks, and food. You can do bar hopping and check out the other venues, too. 

• Pro Tip: Buy the tickets online in advance 

Eid al-Adha (Kurban Bayramı)

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Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Feast of Sacrifice,” is one of the most important religious festivals in Turkey. The holiday is celebrated by Muslims worldwide with prayers, family gatherings, and acts of charity. A common tradition is sacrificing an animal, such as a sheep or goat, and sharing the meat with family, friends, and those in need. 

• Location: Celebrated across Turkey 

• Date & Time: June 

• Highlights: Giving alms, fasting, community gatherings, and street fairs

• Specialties: Large festive meals with traditional Turkish dishes like baklava, sacrificing animals to the God and communal prayers

• Pro Tip: Be respectful of the traditions and attend the gatherings with a Turkish family 

Ramadan Festival (Eid al-Fitr)

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Marking the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, this festival is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and gift-giving. It is also known as Sugar Festival. Sugar Festival (Eid al-Fitr) is synonymous with the end of Ramadan. The Sugar Festival is a joyful occasion filled with sweet treats and delicacies.

• Location: Celebrated across Turkey 

• Date & Time: May

• Highlights: Fasting, community gatherings, and street fairs

• Specialties: Streets and bazaars are decorated with colorful lights. Vendors sell traditional Ramadan sweets, lanterns, and food items, and families break their fast with iftar meals.

• Pro Tip: Be respectful of the traditions and attend the gatherings with a Turkish family 

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Istanbul Coffee Festival

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Istanbul Coffee Festival is perfect for coffee lovers and a unique festival and celebration in Turkey. With tastings, workshops, and live performances, it offers a deep dive into Turkey’s rich coffee culture and craftsmanship.

• Location: Istanbul, Turkey 

• Date & Time: May – Antalya Cam Piramit

• Highlights: Coffee heritage, history, culture, workshops and tasting 

• Specialties: Try a variety of coffees – local and international 

• Pro Tip: Book your stays in advance around the festival 

Side International World Music Festival

Side International World Music Festival is held in the ancient city of Side. This festival showcases world music from various cultures. It is one of the best cultural festivals in Turkey. The Side Municipality organizes it and is free of charge for everyone. 

• Location: Antalya, Turkey 

• Date & Time: August – September 

• Highlights: World-famous orchestras, musicians, and dancers in Side

• Specialties: The historical atmosphere creates a fun space for music and art lovers 

• Pro Tip: Arrive early to get the best spots for sitting and enjoying the music 

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FAQs

What festivals are popular in Turkey?

Some of the most popular festivals are Eid al-Fitr (Şeker Bayramı) and Eid al-Adha (Kurban Bayramı), major Islamic holidays celebrated with family gatherings, feasts, and gift-giving. The dates of these holidays change each year as they are based on the lunar calendar.

Which are the best festivals & events celebrated in Turkey?

The “best” festivals depend on your interests. The Istanbul Tulip Festival, Cappadocia Balloon, and Mevlana Festival are excellent choices if you enjoy cultural events. Don’t miss the Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Festival for a taste of traditional Turkish sports.

What is the best time to visit Turkey?

The best time to visit Turkey depends on your preferences and where you plan to go. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) generally offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. 

What is the traditional dance of Turkey?

The traditional dance of Turkey is the belly dance (Rakkas). It’s a captivating art form with intricate movements and vibrant costumes.

What is the culture of Turkey?

Turkey has a rich and diverse culture that blends Ottoman, Turkish, and Islamic traditions. It’s a country with a strong sense of hospitality, delicious cuisine, and a vibrant arts scene,

How can I find out about all the upcoming festivals in Turkey before I book my trip?

You can use our guide to check the upcoming festivals in Turkey and plan your trip around them. Turkey hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, and you can choose the ones you connect with.