90s Turkish Pop Fest Istanbul 2025: Nostalgia Meets Modern Beats
Did you grow up dancing to Tarkan’s “Simarik” or humming to Sertab’s love songs? The 90s were a golden era for Turkish pop music, and now it’s all coming back — louder and brighter than ever. This August, the 90s Turkish Pop Fest in Istanbul blends nostalgia with a modern twist, giving locals and tourists a unique summer party under the stars. Get ready for iconic songs, fun fashion, and a true celebration of Turkey’s music culture.
What is the 90s Turkish Pop Fest?
The 90s Turkish Pop Fest is not just a concert — it’s a full retro revival. Hosted in open-air venues across Istanbul, the festival features live performances from Turkish pop legends, modern remix artists, and DJs who mix old hits with today’s sounds. From “Hepsi Senin Mi?” to club-style Sezen Aksu edits, expect a high-energy night filled with singing, dancing, and neon lights.
This year, the festival takes place on August 16–17, 2025, at the famous Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu Open-Air Theatre, located in one of Istanbul’s most central neighborhoods — Harbiye/Nisantasi. The location is easily accessible by metro, taxi, or on foot from nearby areas like Taksim and Besiktas.
What’s the weather like in Istanbul in August?
August in Istanbul is hot and dry, with daytime temperatures around 30–33°C (86–91°F) and warm evenings around 24–27°C (75–80°F). Perfect for sleeveless tops, vintage sunglasses, and dancing outdoors. Don’t forget sunscreen and water — and maybe a handheld fan for full retro effect.
What makes this festival special? This event recreates the 90s atmosphere with themed fashion corners, cassette tape photo booths, vintage markets, karaoke stages, and street food zones. Whether you're reliving your youth or discovering Turkish pop for the first time, it’s one of Istanbul’s top festivals in August 2025.
Which neighborhood is best for the festival vibe?
Wondering where to stay during the 90s Turkish Pop Fest? The top neighborhoods for festival-goers are Kadikoy, Besiktas, and Harbiye. Each area is close to venues and full of cultural experiences you can enjoy before and after the show.
Kadikoy: Retro heart of Istanbul’s youth scene
Kadikoy is on Istanbul’s Asian side and is known for its creative energy, alternative culture, and seaside parks — perfect for festival days. Many concerts and after-parties happen in or near Moda, a stylish sub-district.
What to do before the festival:
- Relax in Moda seaside park with Bosphorus views
- Visit Baris Manco Museum, dedicated to the legendary Turkish pop-rock star
- Shop at Tellalzade’s vintage markets and boutique record stores
What to do after:
- Join locals in cozy DJ bars or karaoke spots
- Walk to Bahariye Street for night shopping
- Try iconic street snacks like kokorec or midye dolma
Besiktas: Central and always awake
Besiktas is a lively district on the European side, ideal if you want easy access to all parts of the city.
Before the show:
- Visit Dolmabahce Palace, just a short walk away
- Explore Besiktas Square, packed with locals and energy
- Enjoy Turkish breakfast on Kahvalti Street, one of Istanbul’s most famous food streets
After the show:
- Walk to Ortakoy for night views of the Bosphorus Bridge
- Watch a football match with fans in local pubs
- Party near Kurucesme, known for riverside bars
Harbiye & Nisantasi: Concerts and culture
If your main goal is the Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu Open-Air Theatre, staying nearby saves time and gives you access to high-end shops and stylish cafes.
Before the show:
- Stroll in Macka Park or take the cable car for views
- Shop in Nisantasi, Istanbul’s fashion zone
- Grab coffee or light meals at rooftop cafes
Add our Istanbul Arts & Culture Tour to explore this chic neighborhood deeply.
How to plan your full festival day in Istanbul
- Morning: Start with a local breakfast, visit a museum or take a walking tour in Kadikoy or Besiktas.
- Afternoon: Relax at a park, do some shopping, or join a street food tasting.
- Evening: Head to the venue early to enjoy opening acts and grab retro-themed snacks.
- Late Night: Choose between rooftop parties, local DJ bars, or a romantic ferry ride with views of the Bosphorus.
The 90s Turkish Pop Fest is not just an event — it's a chance to feel the rhythm of Istanbul, explore its coolest neighborhoods, and enjoy Turkish culture in the most fun way possible. Whether you're dancing in Moda, cruising the Bosphorus after the show, or hunting for retro records, this festival brings Istanbul’s summer energy to life.
Ready to turn your August trip into a retro dream? Book your festival pass and discover the real sound of Istanbul this summer.