Nordinary Festival in Istanbul: Indie Vibes as Summer Ends
As summer nears its end, Istanbul hosts one of its most exciting cultural events — the Nordinary Festival. Taking place in late August, this music and arts celebration is the perfect way to say goodbye to the season. It brings together live performances, creative installations, and delicious flavors in a vibrant setting. For those looking for unique August and September events in Istanbul, this festival offers a truly local experience.
What is the Nordinary Festival?
The Nordinary Festival blends indie music, alternative performances, and culinary delights. Hosted at the Swissotel the Bosphorus – Chalet Garden, it features two stages with a carefully selected lineup. Guests can explore food stands and cocktail bars between shows. The relaxed garden setting in the heart of the city makes it an ideal venue for enjoying the end of summer.
Many visitors combine the festival with a Bosphorus Sunset Cruise earlier in the day to enjoy scenic views before the night begins.
When and Where Will It Happen?
The Nordinary Festival 2025 takes place on Sunday, 31 August 2025. Doors open at 15:00, allowing guests to enjoy the venue before the performances start. The location is central and easy to reach from both the European and Asian sides.
Who’s Performing This Year?
Main Stage:
- Beduk
- Soft Analog
- Paptircem
Alternative Stage:
- 3Pillie
- kahadirbartal
- Deniz Sipahi
- Lacin Martynov
- Bahar Sili
Food and Drinks
Festival guests can enjoy Chalet Garden’s kitchen specialties and NOR. Cocktails’ signature drinks. Between performances, there are opportunities to relax, chat, and taste unique flavors. The mix of music and gastronomy makes it an event for both the ears and the palate.
Ticket Information
The 2nd Early Bird Period tickets are available at 749.00 TL in limited numbers. After these sell out, general sale prices will apply. The festival is a standing event with no seating, so comfortable shoes are essential.
Which Tours Can You Combine with the Festival?
- Istanbul Combo: City Highlights & Bosphorus Cruise — Perfect for relaxing with stunning city views before heading to the music.
- Istanbul Walking Tour — Explore local markets, street art, and cafés in the neighborhood where the festival takes place.
- Best of Istanbul Private Guided Tour — A short walk from the venue, ideal for history and architecture lovers.
- Sunset Bosphorus Luxury Yacht Cruise — Capture the city lights after the festival ends.
Booking one of these experiences allows you to turn the festival into a full-day cultural adventure.
What to Bring With You?
- Small crossbody or waist bag — Avoid large bags so you can move and dance freely.
- A small amount of cash — Enough for snacks or drinks, as most vendors accept cards.
- Comfortable shoes — You will be standing and dancing for hours.
- Taxi app on your phone — Download before the event to ensure an easy ride back to your accommodation.
- Light jacket — Evenings in late August can get cooler near the Bosphorus.
What Else Can You Do in the Area?
Q: What can I explore before the event?
A: Visit Dolmabahce Palace for a cultural start to your day, or enjoy the cafés and shops in Besiktas Square.
Q: Are there scenic spots nearby?
A: Walk to the Bosphorus waterfront for photo opportunities and sea views.
Q: Can I add another activity after the festival?
A: Yes. You can join a private Bosphorus night cruise or visit the late-night spots in Karakoy.
The Nordinary Festival 2025 is not just a concert. It is a celebration of creativity, music, and culture in one of Istanbul’s most beautiful outdoor venues. It is the sound of indie beats under the open sky and the taste of summer’s final days.
If you are in Istanbul at the end of August, make sure to add this event to your itinerary.
Turn your festival visit into a full Istanbul experience — contact us and book one of our cultural or Bosphorus tours and enjoy the city from day to night.