Top Seasonal Festivals and Events in Turkey You Can’t Miss

Turkey is a country of history, tradition and celebrations. The nation's culture can be experienced by travelers during seasonal events. Enjoy magnificent music festivals or join colorful street parties. There is always something fun happening. Here is the guide that will explain seasonal events in Turkey so you can plan your trip!

Spring: Season of Rebirth and Color

• Istanbul Tulip Festival (April)

Istanbul is a rainbow paradise in spring. There are millions of tulips in bloom everywhere. Parks like Emirgan Park and Gulhane Park are perfect places to see this stunning flower feast. Istanbul Tulip Festival is one of the most beautiful seasonal festivals in Turkey. Everyone loves the country's deep love for tulips.

• Nevruz Festival (March 21)

Nevruz Festival is an extremely old Turkic celebration. It is spring's arrival. They celebrate it by dancing traditional dances, enjoying bonfires and meeting up with families. This is done more in Eastern Turkey. The people can also attend it at the public squares of Istanbul. Seasonal events are packed with performances and music.

• International Istanbul Film Festival (April)

Film lovers would adore the International Istanbul Film Festival. It is held every April. It is the biggest film festival in Turkey. It is a great chance to watch local and foreign films. The festival is hosted in some of Istanbul's vintage cinemas. It gives this summer seasonal event an additional layer.

Summer: Music, Arts, and Beach Fun

• International Istanbul Music Festival (June-July)

It is one of the most attended Turkey festivals. The festival has musicians from all over the world. Opera, classical music and special performances are enjoyed by people in beautiful places. It can be a place like Hagia Irene. It is a historical church that is used as a concert hall.

• Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival (June)

It is one of Turkey's most enjoyable seasonal festivals. It's hosted in Aspendos ancient theatre out of Antalya. To attend an opera or a ballet show in a Roman 2,000-year-old amphitheatre during the stars, it's a must to try for all travellers.

• Bodrum Jazz Festival (July)

Live sea music throughout the summer in Turkey is not complete without. The Bodrum Jazz Festival presents international level jazz musicians to this favorite sea resort. Live performances are played out in the open air. It provides a free and stylish ambience of this seasonal event.

Autumn: Culture, Heritage, and National Pride

• Istanbul Biennial (September-November)

For all the art lovers, Istanbul Biennial ranks among the best Turkey festivals. Istanbul welcomes artists from across the world on a biennial basis. Unique and modern works of art are exhibited on this seasonal event. The whole city is converted into an art gallery with exhibitions at different locations.

• Republic Day Celebrations (October 29)

Republic Day is an important national holiday. The entire nation celebrates the founding of the Turkish Republic. They have parades, concerts and fireworks that day. In Istanbul, the Bosphorus waters reflect a stunning exhibition that tourists should not miss.

• Cappadocia Balloon Festival (October)

Imagine hundreds of colorful hot air balloons filling the sky over the fairy-tale landscape of Cappadocia. The Cappadocia Balloon Festival is also among the strangest Turkey festivals. It offers magical sunrise flights and night balloon light displays.

Winter: Spirituality, Cinema and Christmas Lights

• Mevlana Whirling Dervishes Festival (December)

It is one of the famous seasonal events in Turkey. This festival is held in Konya. It honors Rumi, the great poet and philosopher. Whirling Dervish Show in the course of the festival. The ritual is a deep spiritual experience. It welcomes visitors from all over the world.

• International Antalya Film Festival (December)

Turkey's largest film festival takes place in Antalya. It is Turkey's oldest and one of the oldest festivals in Europe. It's held seasonally. It's a must see for cinema lovers. Films are shown in cinemas as well as outdoor theatres. It provides an exclusive cinematic experience.

• New Year's Eve in Istanbul (December 31)

New Year's in Istanbul is something you will never forget. The Bosphorus is lit up with fireworks. There are boat, restaurant and hotel themed parties. Do you prefer a lively street party or an elegant dinner cruise? Turkey festivals do not come any better than this!

Want to travel to these festivals with a private guide or a customized tour? Contact us today and start planning your unforgettable experience!