What Events And Public Holidays Are In Turkey 2026?

Turkey in 2026 is a strong choice for travelers who plan trips around important dates. The year includes international sports finals major music festivals global film events and official public holidays. These dates affect hotel prices flight demand and city life in different regions.

Knowing this calendar in advance helps travelers choose the right travel window. Some dates bring energy and global attention. Other dates create heavy local travel inside the country. Both are important for planning a smooth and comfortable visit.

Major International Events In Turkey 2026

In addition to public holidays Turkey hosts several global events that attract international visitors media and artists. These events strongly affect hotel demand and travel flow.

UEFA Europa League Final – May 20 2026

UEFA Europa League Final, one of Europe’s biggest football events comes to Istanbul Besiktas Stadium. Thousands of fans arrive days before the match. Hotels fill quickly. Transport demand increases. Tickets are released through UEFA channels with local access information shared via Passo.

EuroVolley Women 2026 Final Stage – August 21 - September 6

The final stage of the Women’s European Volleyball Championship takes place in Istanbul. Teams fans and international media attend. Many guests stay longer to explore the city and nearby regions.

Istanbul International Music Festival – June - July

This is Turkey’s leading international classical music festival. Concerts take place in historic venues in Istanbul. Artists and audiences arrive from many countries. Visitors often combine the festival with a Best of Istanbul Tour.

Istanbul Jazz Festival – July 2026

The Istanbul Jazz Festival brings global jazz artists to open air stages and concert halls. Summer evenings create a relaxed atmosphere. Travelers enjoy music and city views. Tickets are sold via Biletix.

Sonar Istanbul – Spring 2026

Sonar Istanbul is part of the global electronic music festival brand organaised in Zorlu PSM Istanbul. International DJs and music fans attend. Event announcements usually appear first on Instagram. Tickets are sold via Passo. Many guests add a Sunset Bosphorus Luxury Yacht Cruise.

Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival – October 2026

Turkey’s most important international film festival takes place in Antalya. Filmmakers critics and cinema lovers attend screenings and events. Many visitors combine the festival with a Mediterranean holiday.

Cappadox Festival – Late Spring 2026

Cappadox combines music art gastronomy and nature. Events take place in unique landscapes. Tickets are limited. International attention is strong. Many travelers plan full trips around this festival. Private Best of Cappadocia Tour is often added.

Istanbul Marathon – November 2026

The Istanbul Marathon is the only marathon crossing two continents. Runners from many countries participate. The city becomes a global sports meeting point for one weekend. Visitors often stay longer for sightseeing and recovery tours like Historical Cukurcuma Hammam Experience.

Public Holidays In Turkey 2026

Public holidays in Turkey follow official government calendars. On these dates banks and government offices are closed. Tourist attractions usually remain open. Domestic travel increases during long holidays.

New Year’s Day

• January 1 2026 (Thursday) - Official Day Off
• Istanbul, Antalya and other major cities offer special dinners concerts and city events. This period attracts international visitors who want a festive atmosphere without peak summer crowds. Many travelers combine this holiday with Istanbul Combo: City Highlights & Bosphorus Cruise.

Ramadan Feast (Eid al-Fitr)

• March 19–22 2026 (Thursday–Sunday) - 4-Day Public Holiday
• This holiday marks the end of Ramadan. Families travel across the country. Roads airports and coastal regions become busy. Advance planning is important especially for hotels in Istanbul, Cappadocia and seaside towns.

National Sovereignty And Children’s Day

• April 23 2026 (Thursday) - Official Day Off
• This holiday celebrates national independence and children. Cities host parades school events and official ceremonies. Public squares become lively.

Labor And Solidarity Day

• May 1 2026 (Friday) - Official Day Off
• Labor Day includes public gatherings and demonstrations. Some central areas in Istanbul may have traffic limits. Travelers should plan routes carefully. Coastal areas and smaller towns remain calm and suitable for short escapes.

Youth And Sports Day

• May 19 2026 (Tuesday) - Official Day Off
• This holiday honors youth sports and modern Turkish history. Stadium ceremonies and official events take place nationwide.

Sacrifice Feast (Eid al-Adha)

• May 27–30 2026 (Wednesday–Saturday) - 4-Day Public Holiday
• This is one of the longest and busiest holidays of the year. Domestic tourism reaches peak levels. Flights and hotels sell out early. Visitors should book in advance.

Democracy And National Unity Day

• July 15 2026 (Wednesday) - Official Day Off
• This day includes official ceremonies and commemorations. Daily tourist services continue normally. Government institutions remain closed. Travelers usually experience no major disruptions.

Victory Day

• August 30 2026 (Sunday) - Official Day Off
• Victory Day is marked by ceremonies and public celebrations. City centers and squares host official programs. Tourist attractions remain open. Coastal resorts stay active during this summer holiday.

Republic Day

• October 29 2026 (Thursday) - Official Day Off
• Republic Day is one of Turkey’s most important national celebrations. Fireworks concerts and official ceremonies take place across the country. Cities feel festive and active. Many international travelers plan trips around this date.

Where To Follow Events?

For concerts festivals and international events travelers should follow Biletix and Passo for official tickets and confirmed dates. Many organizers also announce events through verified Instagram accounts.

For public holidays government calendars remain the most reliable source. These dates affect transport schedules business hours and domestic travel demand.

Turkey in 2026 offers a strong mix of international events and national holidays. Each season brings a different travel rhythm. Planning around these dates helps travelers avoid crowds or enjoy major celebrations at the right time.

By following official ticket platforms and holiday calendars visitors can choose the best travel window. For travelers who want smooth planning private routes and flexible timing contact us to arrange tours transfers and personalized travel experiences in Turkey.