If you’re planning to visit Istanbul this year, there’s no better way to experience the city than through its major festivals and events in Istanbul in 2025. As a local tour guide, I can tell you that the city comes alive with music, colors, food, and stories that stretch back centuries.
From international film screenings to vibrant local traditions, this guide will walk you through the top Istanbul events 2025, plus some insider tips to make your trip smooth, memorable, and uniquely Turkish.
Spring major festivals and events in Istanbul in 2025
- Istanbul Tulip Festival – April 2025
Every April, Istanbul blooms, quite literally, during the Istanbul Tulip Festival, one of the best festivals in Turkey for flower lovers and photographers alike. Tulips, which originated in Turkey, paint the city’s parks in vibrant colors.
Top places to visit include Emirgan Park, Gülhane Park, and Sultanahmet Square, where you’ll see flower carpets surrounding ancient mosques.
Go early in the morning for the best lighting and smaller crowds. It’s magical.
- Hidrellez Festival – Early May 2025
Welcome spring the Turkish way with the Hidrellez Festival, one of the liveliest traditions in the country. This free cultural program in Istanbul is held mostly in Ahırkapı, where you can dance with locals, jump over bonfires, and write wishes for the coming year.
No ticket required, just bring your dancing shoes and an open heart.
Summer festivals (June – August)
Long days, warm nights, and a city alive with rhythm
- Istanbul Music Festival – June 2025
One of the highlights of the Turkey music festival season, this prestigious event features world-class orchestras and soloists performing in historical venues like Hagia Irene.
It’s a top event on the Turkey festival calendar, especially for classical music fans. Check the concert schedule in Istanbul early to grab the best seats.
- Istanbul Jazz Festival – July 2025
Get ready to groove! This internationally acclaimed festival brings the best of jazz, funk, and blues to open-air venues and clubs all across the city.
Watch out for free cultural programs in Istanbul, especially outdoor concerts in local parks.
For a romantic evening, try a jazz rooftop concert overlooking the Bosphorus.
- Istanbul Carnival – August 2025
The lively Istanbul Carnival is a melting pot of music, costumes, and street parades, making it a family-friendly event that keeps the party going into the night.
You’ll see influences from Latin, Balkan, and Anatolian traditions all in one unforgettable celebration.
This is one of the top Istanbul events to attend if you love high energy and dancing.
Istanbul Carnival
Autumn major festivals and events in Istanbul in 2025
A season for art lovers, film buffs, and foodies
- Contemporary Istanbul – September 2025
If you’re visiting Istanbul for art lovers, this modern art fair is a must-see. It gathers local and international galleries for one of the most vibrant contemporary exhibitions in the region.
It’s hosted in the beautiful Tersane Istanbul, a restored 15th-century shipyard turned art venue.
- Istanbul Film Festival – October 2025
As one of the most anticipated Turkey film festivals, this is where you’ll catch indie gems, documentaries, and world premieres.
With screenings in iconic venues around Beyoğlu and Kadıköy, it’s the perfect way to explore the city’s creative scene. The cultural program in Istanbul is especially strong in autumn, and this festival is a key reason why.
Check the schedule early; popular screenings sell out fast.
- Istanbul Food Festival – October 2025
Foodies, rejoice! The Istanbul Food Festival showcases traditional and modern Turkish cuisine with tasting booths, chef demos, and pop-up restaurants. From street kebabs to Michelin-inspired dishes, it’s all here.
Try regional specialties like Black Sea anchovies or Antep-style kebabs you won’t find elsewhere.
Istanbul Events 2025
Religious & spiritual celebrations
Sacred moments and city-wide gatherings
- Ramadan & Eid al-Fitr – March–April 2025
During Ramadan, Istanbul becomes calm and reflective by day, and beautifully vibrant by night. Enjoy free cultural programs in Istanbul like public iftars and lantern-lit evenings in Sultanahmet Square.
Then comes Eid al-Fitr, when families feast and celebrate in the streets. Expect joyful music, colorful markets, and plenty of sweets like lokum (Turkish delight).
- Kurban Bayramı (Eid al-Adha) – June 2025
This sacred holiday centers around charity, tradition, and large family gatherings. You’ll find quiet mornings followed by big meals in every neighborhood.
Keep in mind that many businesses and shops close during the first two days of the holiday.
Shopping & street culture
Where modern fun meets Turkish tradition
- Istanbul Shopping Festival – June 2025
This annual event is part of the Turkey festival calendar and a hit with locals and tourists alike. Look for discounts at major malls and shops in areas like Nişantaşı, Zorlu Center, and the Grand Bazaar.
There are also pop-up fashion shows and traditional performances for shoppers.
- Istanbul Bike Festival – May 2025
Ideal for active travelers! Enjoy community rides, cycle through historic routes, and even test electric bikes along the Bosphorus.
- Istanbul Marathon – November 2025
Run (or walk!) from Asia to Europe across the Bosphorus Bridge in this globally famous event. Even if you’re not racing, it’s worth waking up early to catch the spectacular views and enthusiastic crowds.
Turkey festival calendar highlights
| Month | Major Festival/Event |
| March | Start of Ramadan |
| April | Istanbul Tulip Festival |
| May | Hidrellez, Istanbul Bike Festival |
| June | Istanbul Music Festival, Shopping Festival |
| July | Istanbul Jazz Festival |
| August | Istanbul Carnival |
| September | Contemporary Istanbul, Istanbul Food Festival |
| October | Istanbul Film Festival |
| November | Istanbul Marathon |
Tips for major festivals and events in Istanbul in 2025
- Where to stay: Book hotels near Taksim or Sultanahmet to be close to most event venues.
- How to get around: Use an Istanbulkart for buses, metros, and ferries.
- Dress smart: Pack layers and comfortable walking shoes, many venues are outdoors.
- Be respectful: Especially during religious events. Avoid eating in public during fasting hours.
Final word from your local guide
From jazz and film to food and faith, the major festivals and events in Istanbul in 2025 offer something for everyone. It’s a city that truly knows how to celebrate, and every event is a doorway into its rich, living culture.
Whether you’re here for the Istanbul food festival, looking for a free cultural program in Istanbul, or just browsing the Turkey music festival scene, there’s a good chance you’ll leave with a full heart and a full camera roll.
Free Cultural Programs in Istanbul
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