The main dates
| Date | Holiday | What you see in Istanbul |
|---|---|---|
| 23 April | National Sovereignty and Children's Day | Children in costume, shows, flags |
| 19 May | Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day | Sports events, ceremonies |
| 15 July | Democracy and National Unity Day | Commemoration, notably around the Martyrs Bridge |
| 30 August | Victory Day | Official ceremonies |
| 29 October | Republic Day | Flags everywhere, ceremonies, entertainment |
| 10 November | Anniversary of Atatürk's death | Minute of silence at 9:05 |
23 April: children's day
On 23 April, Turkey celebrates the founding of the Grand National Assembly (1920) and dedicates the day to children. Children from many countries are invited to shows organised in the country. In Istanbul, schools and municipalities organise activities, and parks fill with families: it is a good day out with children, see Istanbul with children. The period coincides with the tulips: see the tulip festival.
29 October: Republic Day
The Republic of Turkey was proclaimed on 29 October 1923. It is the most visible holiday in the city: flags on façades and bridges, official ceremonies and gatherings, notably in Taksim Square around the Republic Monument, and entertainment and shows in the evening in some years. On the eve, 28 October, the half-day begins in the early afternoon.
10 November: 9:05
Atatürk died at Dolmabahçe Palace on 10 November 1938, at 9:05. Every year at that hour a siren sounds and the country observes a minute of silence: pedestrians, cars and sometimes boats stop. At Dolmabahçe Palace, the room where he died is a place of remembrance. If you are in the street at that moment, stop along with the people around you.
What closes, what stays open
- Government offices and banks: closed on public holidays; withdraw cash the day before (see money, payment and tipping).
- National museums and palaces: hours may change or the site may close. Check the official site before you go, especially for Topkapı.
- Restaurants, cafés, transport: running, but sometimes on adapted hours; for the Grand Bazaar, check the day before.
- Crowds: big squares such as Taksim and İstiklal Avenue are packed; allow extra time.
Tips
- Photos. You can photograph ceremonies from a distance; don't cross security cordons.
- Gatherings. Stay a spectator and follow police instructions.
- Accommodation. When a holiday falls near a weekend, the city is busier; see where to stay in Istanbul.
